Consideration For Other’s Opinions

II Samuel 19:31-43

“And Barzillai the Gileadite came down from Rogelim, and went over Jordan with the king, to conduct him over Jordan.  Now Barzillai was a very aged man, even fourscore years old: and he had provided the king of sustenance while he lay at Mahanaim; for he was a very great man.” (II Samuel 19:31)

Barzillai was one of the men who had provided food and camping gear for David and his men.  He was well known throughout the area east of the Jordan, and controlled a huge area. Though he was in his eighties, he walked about fifty miles southeast to escort David back across the Jordan.

“And the king said unto Barzillai, Come thou over with me, and I will feed thee with me in Jerusalem.

“And Barzillai said unto the king, How long have I to live, that I should go up with the king unto Jerusalem?  I am this day fourscore years old: and can I discern between good and evil? can thy servant taste what I eat or what I drink? can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women? wherefore then should thy servant be yet a burden unto my lord the king?  Thy servant will go a little way over Jordan with the king: and why should the king recompense it me with such a reward? 

 Let thy servant, I pray thee, turn back again, that I may die in mine own city, and be buried by the grave of my father and of my mother. But behold thy servant Chimham; let him go over with my lord the king; and do to him what shall seem good unto thee.” (II Samuel 19:33-37) 

Appreciative of Barzillai’s financial, emotional and military support, David asked him to accompany him to Jerusalem to celebrate with him.  Barzillai said that he was eighty, and had lost most of his capacity for enjoying such events,  He could no longer taste most of what he ate, nor could he enjoy the musicians, or most of the other entertainment.  He would just settle for going just a little past the Jordan and not put them to the trouble of trying to entertain him.  He had no desire to live out his days in Jerusalem, preferring to return to his own home.  He asked that a younger friend, Chimham, be allowed to go in his place.

“And the king answered, Chimham shall go over with me, and I will do to him that which shall seem good unto thee: and whatsoever thou shalt require of me, that will I do for thee. 

And all the people went over Jordan. And when the king was come over, the king kissed Barzillai, and blessed him; and he returned unto his own place.  Then the king went on to Gilgal, and Chimham went on with him: and all the people of Judah conducted the king, and also half the people of Israel.” (II Samuel 19:38-40)

David agreed to let Chimham take his place, promising do what Barzillai wanted for him.  He also promised to do anything he could to help Barzillai, should he ever need help in the future.  When they were across Jordan, Bqarzillai returned home and David went on to Gilgal accompanied by Chimham along with all the tribe of Judah and half of Israel.

“And, behold, all the men of Israel came to the king, and said unto the king, Why have our brethren the men of Judah stolen thee away, and have brought the king, and his household, and all David's men with him, over Jordan? 

And all the men of Judah answered the men of Israel, Because the king is near of kin to us: wherefore then be ye angry for this matter? have we eaten at all of the king's cost? or hath he given us any gift? 

And the men of Israel answered the men of Judah, and said, We have ten parts in the king, and we have also more right in David than ye: why then did ye despise us, that our advice should not be first had in bringing back our king? And the words of the men of Judah were fiercer than the words of the men of Israel.” (II Samuel 19:41-43) 

Judah had been the first group to anoint David king, thirty years before.  They had been the first to support Absalom.  Now they had been the first to reinstate David as king, because he was their man, their own family.  The rest of Israel began to see their actions as rather high handed and inconsiderate of the others.  After all, there were ten other tribes besides Judah and Benjamin that had a say in who the king should be.  Both sides wanted David as king, the conflict resulted from the other tribes not being consulted.  It left the other tribes feeling like their opinion was not considered important.

Last year, I felt a little disenfranchised by the Republican party when I was repeatedly asked to make donations to support the party candidates, but there was no way to express my concerns or opinions.  Many Americans are getting the same feeling watching our federal government, and seeing the president or Congress vote in laws totally along party lines. People are left with the feeling that
only the party’s opinion matters.

I am watching a large religious group go through the same thing for exactly the same reasons.  They are losing much of their membership, not because of doctrinal differences, or people disagree with the decision that are made, but because people feel that they have no input.   They are asked to pay for the decisions that are made, but they have no real input as to what the decisions are.  When a vote is taken to approve or reject various decisions, it is pretty much like the propositions for a funding project in a state election.  You are presented with the leadership’s decision and can accept it or reject it, but cannot make any recommendations or suggestions.  There is no forum where alternative suggestions can be presented.

The organization has already suffered a large split an umber of years ago, for the same reason, but present leadership has not learned from past experience, and are repeating the same actions.  A lot of potential conflict can be avoided by making people feel their opinion matters, even if it means that progress is slowed somewhat.  

David Returns Across Jordan

II Samuel 19:15-30

“So the king returned, and came to Jordan. And Judah came to Gilgal, to go to meet the king, to conduct the king over Jordan.” (II Samuel 19:15)

David remained in Mahanaim until Judah formally accepted him as king.  He did not spend the time in political maneuvering to become king but waiting until they were ready.  When Judah came to escort him across Jordan, it was their decision, and they were again as committed to him as when they chose him the first time.

“And Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite, which was of Bahurim, hasted and came down with the men of Judah to meet king David.” (II Samuel 19:16)

Shimei had not hesitated to blaspheme David, accusing him of killing Saul’s family and usurping the kingdom when  he didn’t think David could do anything about it.  The moment he suspected David might be restored to power, he made real effort to smooth things over so he wouldn’t be taken to task for his actions.  He was a Benjamite, and a distant relative of Saul’s, and was quite bitter that Saul’s family was no longer ruling.

“And there were a thousand men of Benjamin with him, and Ziba the servant of the house of Saul, and his fifteen sons and his twenty servants with him; and they went over Jordan before the king.  And there went over a ferry boat to carry over the king's household, and to do what he thought good.” (II Samuel 19:17-18a) 

David was accompanied by about a thousand Benjamite warriors, as well as Saul’s retainers and former servants.  Clearly, Shimei’s attitude was not shared by the rest of the tribe or Saul’s associates.

 "Shimei the son of Gera fell down before the king, as he was come over Jordan; And said unto the king, Let not my lord impute iniquity unto me, neither do thou remember that which thy servant did perversely the day that my lord the king went out of Jerusalem, that the king should take it to his heart.  For thy servant doth know that I have sinned: therefore, behold, I am come the first this day of all the house of Joseph to go down to meet my lord the king.” (II Samuel 19:18b-20)

Like most people who allow their anger to control their tongue, Shimei said things he ought not because he thought he could get by with it.  When he realized he might have to pay for his actions, he rushed to apologize in hopes of persuading David not to kill him.  Obviously, he knew his actions were unacceptable, as he told David,  His apology was not a result of sincere regret or repentance, but an attempt to avoid punishment.  His rush to apologize is typical of people who realize their actions made people angry, but do not consider themselves as having done any thing truly wrong.

“But Abishai the son of Zeruiah answered and said, Shall not Shimei be put to death for this, because he cursed the LORD'S anointed?

And David said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah, that ye should this day be adversaries unto me? shall there any man be put to death this day in Israel? for do not I know that I am this day king over Israel? 

Therefore the king said unto Shimei, Thou shalt not die. And the king sware unto him.’ (II Samuel 19:21-23) 

Abishai recognized the insincerity of Shimei’s apology and recommended that he be killed.  It was the standard approach of his Aunt Zeruiah’s children, to kill those who opposed them.  David was beginning to despair of them ever looking beyond their immediate concerns.  To just put everybody to death who disagreed with him would bring the judgment of God on David, as well as creating enemies and weakening the kingdom.

David knew he had the necessary authority and did not need to kill somebody to prove it to anybody.  Only a very insecure person needs to demonstrate their power.  David would not put anybody to death for their part in Absalom’s rebellion, because he was sure of his position as king.

“And Mephibosheth the son of Saul came down to meet the king, and had neither dressed his feet, nor trimmed his beard, nor washed his clothes, from the day the king departed until the day he came again in peace.

 And it came to pass, when he was come to Jerusalem to meet the king, that the king said unto him, Wherefore wentest not thou with me, Mephibosheth?

And he answered, My lord, O king, my servant deceived me: for thy servant said, I will saddle me an ass, that I may ride thereon, and go to the king; because thy servant is lame. 

And he hath slandered thy servant unto my lord the king; but my lord the king is as an angel of God: do therefore what is good in thine eyes.  For all of my father's house were but dead men before my lord the king: yet didst thou set thy servant among them that did eat at thine own table. What right therefore have I yet to cry any more unto the king?” (II Samuel 19:24-28)

Mephibosheth was actually Jonathan’s son and Saul’s grandson.  David had befriended him’ supporting hem when the standard custom would have been to kill him or exile him.  David had been concerned when Mephibosheth’s servant, Ziba showed up in support but Mephibosheth himself did not.  Ziba had said that he was hoping that with David dead, they would give the kingdom to him, and David was offended by such ingratitude, and offered Ziba the land that he had held for Mephibosheth.

When he met Mephibosheth on his return, he questioned his reason for not going.  Mephibosheth was cripple in both feet, and could hardly walk.  When Ziba and the others left to accompany David, they told him they were going to catch a donkey for him to ride and left without telling him.  By the time he caught one for himself, it was too late.

Ziba had lied about him not wanting to go and hoping for David’s death. But mephibosheth was willing to accept whatever David might decide because he realized that except for David’s mercy, he would already have been dead years before., and he was just glad to see him alive.

 “And the king said unto him, Why speakest thou any more of thy matters? I have said, Thou and Ziba divide the land. 

And Mephibosheth said unto the king, Yea, let him take all, forasmuch as my lord the king is come again in peace unto his own house.” (II Samuel 19:29-30)

David regretted his haste in offering the land to Ziba, and asked Mephibosheth to share it with him.  Mephibosheth said Ziba was welcome to it all as thanks for helping David return safely.

Making The First Move

II Samuel 19:1-15

“And it was told Joab, Behold, the king weepeth and mourneth for Absalom.  And the victory that day was turned into mourning unto all the people: for the people heard say that day how the king was grieved for his son.  And the people gat them by stealth that day into the city, as people being ashamed steal away when they flee in battle.  But the king covered his face, and the king cried with a loud voice, O my son Absalom, O Absalom, my son, my son! ” (II Samuel 19:1-4) 

The people knew that David had given orders not to hurt Absalom, and they knew how he had been killed.  Seeing how badly David felt about it, the people were embarrassed to be part of the murder and snuck home in shame, while David continued to grieve.

“And Joab came into the house to the king, and said, Thou hast shamed this day the faces of all thy servants, which this day have saved thy life, and the lives of thy sons and of thy daughters, and the lives of thy wives, and the lives of thy concubines; In that thou lovest thine enemies, and hatest thy friends. For thou hast declared this day, that thou regardest neither princes nor servants: for this day I perceive, that if Absalom had lived, and all we had died this day, then it had pleased thee well. 

Now therefore arise, go forth, and speak comfortably unto thy servants: for I swear by the LORD, if thou go not forth, there will not tarry one with thee this night: and that will be worse unto thee than all the evil that befell thee from thy youth until now.” (II Samuel 19:5-7) 

The people could understand David’s grief over the death of his son.  After a while, however, they began to feel that David cared more about Absalom than he did about the country.  Joab warned that if he didn’t make it clear he appreciated their efforts to save his life, the people would begin to turn away and find somebody else to be king.  If that happened, there would be nobody to support him.

“Then the king arose, and sat in the gate. And they told unto all the people, saying, Behold, the king doth sit in the gate. And all the people came before the king: for Israel had fled every man to his tent.” (II Samuel 19:8) 

Following Joab’s advice, David went back out into public, personally meeting the people.  The people heard that he was making himself available again, and showing interest in them.  They responded by coming to meet him and share their condolences.

“And all the people were at strife throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, The king saved us out of the hand of our enemies, and he delivered us out of the hand of the Philistines; and now he is fled out of the land for Absalom.  And Absalom, whom we anointed over us, is dead in battle. Now therefore why speak ye not a word of bringing the king back?” (II Samuel 19:9-10)

David did not just declare himself king.  He waited, and before long the people began to want to make him king officially again.  They acknowledged what David had done in the past, and that in making Absalom king they had stripped David of his power.  With Absalom dead, they really had no king and felt that they needed to  make it official again.

“And king David sent to Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, saying, Speak unto the elders of Judah, saying, Why are ye the last to bring the king back to his house? seeing the speech of all Israel is come to the king, even to his house.  Ye are my brethren, ye are my bones and my flesh: wherefore then are ye the last to bring back the king?” (II Samuel 19:11-12)

David was of the tribe of Judah, and they had been the first to receive him as king after Saul’s death, but their leaders had been some of those suckered into supporting Absalom.  With all Israel wanting David to be named as king, he asked what was holding him back.

”And say ye to Amasa, Art thou not of my bone, and of my flesh? God do so to me, and more also, if thou be not captain of the host before me continually in the room of Joab.” (II Samuel 19:13) 

David knew Joab had deliberately disobeyed his command and murdered Absalom out of a desire for revenge.  He had also murdered Abner, even though Abner was trying to support their cause.  Clearly, Joab was more concerned with his own agenda than he was with David’s plans or what was right, so he decided to replace him with Amasa.  Amasa was another of David’s cousins and could be expected to be as loyal as Joab.

“And he bowed the heart of all the men of Judah, even as the heart of one man; so that they sent this word unto the king, Return thou, and all thy servants.  So the king returned, and came to Jordan. And Judah came to Gilgal, to go to meet the king, to conduct the king over Jordan.” (II Samuel 19:14-15)

Apparently, Judah had been holding off, fearing David had turned against them for supporting Absalom.  His comments made it clear he held no grudges, and they immediately turned to support him, asking him to take back the throne.  They met David at the Jordan river to escort him across the river and back into Judah.

Christians have a responsibility not to initiate conflict and separation in marriage.  They also have a responsibility to reach out to others in an effort to reconcile their differences, regardless of who has done wrong.  Many times their pride or sense of guilt keeps people from taking action they want or know they need to take.  By reaching out to them, we can take away the constraints, but like David, we have to wait until they are ready.  It cannot be forced.

A Messenger Without The Whole Message

II Samuel 18:19-

“Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok, Let me now run, and bear the king tidings, how that the LORD hath avenged him of his enemies.   And Joab said unto him, Thou shalt not bear tidings this day, but thou shalt bear tidings another day: but this day thou shalt bear no tidings, because the king's son is dead.” (II Sasmuel 18:19-20)

Jonathan and Ahimaaz had brought Hushai’s message to David, having a great impact on the outcome of the battle.  When they learned that Absalom had been killed, he volunteered to carry the news of his death to David.  After all it would be really exciting to carry the news that victory had been won.

Joab recognized that David’s pleasure in victory would mitigated by his grief over the death of his son.  How the message was presented would be as important as the message itself.  Ahimaaz was too excited about the victory and carrying the message to think about the hurt it might cause.  In his excitement, he might well present it in an offensive manner. Joab told him that it would be better for him to wait until another time.

“Then said Joab to Cushi, Go tell the king what thou hast seen. And Cushi bowed himself unto Joab, and ran.” (II Samuel 18:21)

Cushi had been actively engaged in the battle,  he was aware of the horrors of seeing men die.  He realized what victory had cost, and would not be as excited about winning.  Joab told him to tell David what he had seen.

“Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok yet again to Joab, But howsoever, let me, I pray thee, also run after Cushi. 

And Joab said, Wherefore wilt thou run, my son, seeing that thou hast no tidings ready? 

But howsoever, said he, let me run. 

And he said unto him, Run.

Then Ahimaaz ran by the way of the plain, and overran Cushi.” (II Samuel 18:22-23)

Ahimaaz was still excited about being a messenger,  insisting he wanted to run.  Joab asked him why since he had nothing to tell, but finally allowed him to go.  Focused on his running, rather than his message. Ahimaaz was able to take a shortcut and beat Cushi to the city.

“And David sat between the two gates: and the watchman went up to the roof over the gate unto the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold a man running alone.  And the watchman cried, and told the king. 

And the king said, If he be alone, there is tidings in his mouth. 

And he came apace, and drew near.  And the watchman saw another man running: and the watchman called unto the porter, and said, Behold another man running alone. 

And the king said, He also bringeth tidings. 

And the watchman said, Me thinketh the running of the foremost is like the running of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok. 

And the king said, He is a good man, and cometh with good tidings.” (II Samuel 18:24-27)

The watchman David had posted spotted both men, and after watching a little while recognized Ahimaaz’ running style.  David said that he was a good man dn his fast pace indicated he was carrying good news.

“And Ahimaaz called, and said unto the king, All is well. And he fell down to the earth upon his face before the king, and said, Blessed be the LORD thy God, which hath delivered up the men that lifted up their hand against my lord the king. 

And the king said, Is the young man Absalom safe? 

And Ahimaaz answered, When Joab sent the king's servant, and me thy servant, I saw a great tumult, but I knew not what it was. 

And the king said unto him, Turn aside, and stand here. And he turned aside, and stood still.” (II Samuel 18:28-30)

When Ahimaaz arrived, he shouted out that David’s enemies had been defeated.  David asked for more information, and Ahimaaz had to say that was all he knew.  He had seen a big commotion going on when he left, but he didn’t know what it was about.  David then asked him to stand over out of the way while Cushi reported. For all David knew, the commotion could well have been a violent attack by the other side that resulted in extending the battle.

 “And, behold, Cushi came; and Cushi said, Tidings, my lord the king: for the LORD hath avenged thee this day of all them that rose up against thee. 

And the king said unto Cushi, Is the young man Absalom safe? 

And Cushi answered, The enemies of my lord the king, and all that rise against thee to do thee hurt, be as that young man is.” (II Samuel 18:31-32)

Like Ahimaaz, Cushi reported that they had been victorious, but he was able to answer questions about what had happened.  When David asked him about Absalom, Cushi was able to answer the question, but he was discreet in his response.  Instead of blasting out the news, he responded in a way that implied his regret, that he was dead.

In my fifty years working in churches, I have observed a lot of people like, Ahimaaz.  They are so eager to do something they don’t take the time to find out what needs to be done.  As a result most of their effort produces little or no value, and frequently causes problems.

Youth groups are often sent on soul winning or mission  trips in hopes of exciting them about serving the Lord.  They are usually given some sales script that is supposed to cause people to get saved.  Unfortunately they are little better equipped to win people to Christ than the kids who the schools send out to sell candy bars or other products, depending on people to buy as favor to help the kid rather than a real desire for the product.  Because they have no real understanding of what is actually required or what Christ did to save people, they are unable to do anything but follow the script and hope somebody gets saved.   They are unequipped to answer legitimate questions or even lay a foundation for someone to build on.  The kids get excited, but like Ahimaaz, they have little to offer of real value.

It is far better to send someone like Cushi, who actually has enough information to answer relevant questions, even though it may mean they don’t get there as quickly, or aren’t as excited.  Until they have the whole message people cannot make legitimate decisions.

“And the king was much moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate, and wept: and as he went, thus he said, O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!” (II Samuel 18:33)

This is the third of David’s sons to die, at least indirectly as  a result of David’s sin with Bathsheba.  Absalom’ s death is directly a result of his failure to honor his father, but David is forced to confront the fact that his example in having Uriah murdered and his handling of Amnon’s rape of Tamar, and how he treated Absalom for murdering Amnon all contributed to his death.  Think of the guilt David must have felt.

Caught By His Pride

II Samuel 18:1-18

“And David numbered the people that were with him, and set captains of thousands and captains of hundreds over them.  And David sent forth a third part of the people under the hand of Joab, and a third part under the hand of Abishai the son of Zeruiah, Joab's brother, and a third part under the hand of Ittai the Gittite. And the king said unto the people, I will surely go forth with you myself also. 

But the people answered, Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us: but now thou art worth ten thousand of us: therefore now it is better that thou succour us out of the city. 

And the king said unto them, What seemeth you best I will do. And the king stood by the gate side, and all the people came out by hundreds and by thousands.” (II Samuel 18:1-4) 

Once they arrived in Mahanaim, David began to organize his forces, dividing them into three main groups.  Two of the groups were led by David’s cousins, Joab and Abishai, while the third was led by the Ittai, the Philistine from Gath.

Unlike most politicians David was not inclined to stay at home and give orders, preferring to be actively involved and leading the people.  The people recognized that the entire purpose of the attack was to destroy him and insisted he not expose himself to the danger,  If  David were killed, it wouldn’t matter whether they won the battle or not, because Absalom would still seize the kingdom.  They insisted David stay in the city and cheer them on from there so they didn’t have to worry about him being killed.

David yielded to the wishes of the people, acknowledging their right to make such a request since they were putting their lives on the line for him.  It was this desire to actively take part in what was done, but being willing to consider others that distinguished him from Saul and made him such a great leader that even his former enemies would support him.

“And the king commanded Joab and Abishai and Ittai, saying, Deal gently for my sake with the young man, even with Absalom. And all the people heard when the king gave all the captains charge concerning Absalom.” (II Samuel 18:5)

Even thought Absalom was trying to kill him, David still loved his son.  Godly love is not based on the other person’s treatment of us, but on our chosen attitude toward them.  At the same time David id not overlook Absalom’s intention to kill him,  As I Corinthians 13:6 says, Love “Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth.”  Love is honest about the person, seeing what they are really like.  Because of his love for his son, David gave orders to try not to hurt Absalom if possible, and all the people were informed.

 “So the people went out into the field against Israel: and the battle was in the wood of Ephraim; Where the people of Israel were slain before the servants of David, and there was there a great slaughter that day of twenty thousand men.  For the battle was there scattered over the face of all the country: and the wood devoured more people that day than the sword devoured. 

And Absalom met the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon a mule, and the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head caught hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the earth; and the mule that was under him went away.” (II Samuel 18:6-9)

As a result of Absalom’s attempt to usurp the throne, twenty thousand people died.  More were killed from running into dead branches or falls that were killed by the opposing forces.  Absalom himself got his hair tangled in an oak branch and was left dangling, by the very hair he had been so proud of, unable to free himself when his mule didn‘t stop in time..

“And a certain man saw it, and told Joab, and said, Behold, I saw Absalom hanged in an oak. 

And Joab said unto the man that told him, And, behold, thou sawest him, and why didst thou not smite him there to the ground? And I would have given thee ten shekels of silver, and a girdle. 

And the man said unto Joab, Though I should receive a thousand shekels of silver in mine hand, yet would I not put forth mine hand against the king's son: for in our hearing the king charged thee and Abishai and Ittai, saying, Beware that none touch the young man Absalom.  Otherwise I should have wrought falsehood against mine own life: for there is no matter hid from the king, and thou thyself wouldest have set thyself against me.” (II Samuel 18:10-13) 

When Joab heard what had happened, he demanded to know why the man hadn’t just killed Absalom on the spot, stating that he would have given him a cash reward and a trophy belt for it,

The man didn’t believe him because David had given orders not to hurt Absalom, and he was sure Joab would have had him executed immediately for ignoring the orders.  He didn’t feel like committing suicide.

“Then said Joab, I may not tarry thus with thee. And he took three darts in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet alive in the midst of the oak.  And ten young men that bare Joab's armour compassed about and smote Absalom, and slew him.  And Joab blew the trumpet, and the people returned from pursuing after Israel: for Joab held back the people.” (II Samuel 18:14-16)

Joab told the man he didn’t have the time to waste discussing what would have happened and hurried away to kill Absalom before someone rescued him.  He had a grudge against Absalom for burning his field,  and  he wanted to get even, regardless of David‘s orders.  He stabbed three arrows or small spears through Absalom’s heart, then had  ten other guys stab him to hide who really killed him.  He was the third person Joab had deliberately had killed.  With Absalom dead, there was no excuse to continue the battle, so Joab called off his men.

“And they took Absalom, and cast him into a great pit in the wood, and laid a very great heap of stones upon him: and all Israel fled every one to his tent.” (II Samuel 18:17)

There was a large pit in the woods, so Absalom was buried in it under a pile of stones to keep animals from eating the body.  Knowing that David was going to be upset about Absalom’s death after having given instructions not to hurt him, the people returned home with a sense of failure.

“Now Absalom in his lifetime had taken and reared up for himself a pillar, which is in the king's dale: for he said, I have no son to keep my name in remembrance: and he called the pillar after his own name: and it is called unto this day, Absalom's place.” (II Samuel 18:18) 

Absalom was a vain man wanting everyone to look up to him.  It was why he had let his hair grow, and spent so much hiring guys to accompany him and doing public relations.  In addition he had set up a monument to himself so everybody would remember him, since he had no sons to do it for him.  

Hushai Warns David of Ahithophel’s Plan

II Samuel 17:15-29

“Then said Hushai unto Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, Thus and thus did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and thus have I counselled.  Now therefore send quickly, and tell David, saying, Lodge not this night in the plains of the wilderness, but speedily pass over; lest the king be swallowed up, and all the people that are with him.” (II Samuel 17:15-16) 

Having successfully convinced Absalom to delay attacking David, Hushai contacted the priests, and informed them what he had done, asking them to send their sons with a message to David.  He warned them of Ahithophel’s plan, and tht they ought not stop in the wilderness for fear that Ahithophel might still find a way to attack and capture or kill him.

“Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by Enrogel; for they might not be seen to come into the city: and a wench went and told them; and they went and told king David. 

Nevertheless a lad saw them, and told Absalom: but they went both of them away quickly, and came to a man's house in Bahurim, which had a well in his court; whither they went down.  And the woman took and spread a covering over the well's mouth, and spread ground corn thereon; and the thing was not known.

And when Absalom's servants came to the woman to the house, they said, Where is Ahimaaz and Jonathan? And the woman said unto them, They be gone over the brook of water. And when they had sought and could not find them, they returned to Jerusalem. “(II Samuel 17:17-20)

Every effort was made top prevent their mission being discovered, with them staying in Enrogel and a serving girl carrying the message to them.  Despite their efforts, a boy saw them and reported ti to Absalom, but they fled to Bahurim to a sympathizer’s home,  The home had their own well in the courtyard, and Jonathan and Ahimaaz hid on the steps of the well, while the protective cover was put over it and it was disguised to look like a they were using ist as place for grinding grain, with sacks of grain and flour scattered around over the top.  The ruse was successful, and the boys were not discovered.

When questioned, the woman of the house told the pursuers that they had been seen crossing the brook earlier.  The pursuers searched the area but didn’t find them.

“And it came to pass, after they were departed, that they came up out of the well, and went and told king David, and said unto David, Arise, and pass quickly over the water: for thus hath Ahithophel counselled against you.

 Then David arose, and all the people that were with him, and they passed over Jordan: by the morning light there lacked not one of them that was not gone over Jordan.” (II Samuel 17:21)

Once the search was called off, Jonathan and Ahimaaz emerged from the well and completed their mission, warning David not to stay in the region but to cross on over Jordan because of Ahithophel’s plans.  David and his followers immediately decamped, crossing Jordan before daylight.

“And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the sepulchre of his father.” (II Samuel 17:23) 

When Ahithophel realized they were not going to take his advice, he was so upset at being ignored that he went home and committed suicide, convinced there was nothing left for him.  He sounds like the teenagers who commit suicide today because somebody disagreed with them.

“Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, he and all the men of Israel with him.  And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab: which Amasa was a man's son, whose name was Ithra an Israelite, that went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah Joab's mother.  So Israel and Absalom pitched in the land of Gilead.” (II Samuel 17:24-26) 

David proceeded to Mahanaim while Absalom and his forces moved into Gilead East of Jordan in the tribe of Manasseh.  Absalom replaced Joab, who he knew to be loyal to David with a man named Amasa.  Amasa was the son of one Joab’s niece’s lover.

“And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of Ammiel of Lodebar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim, Brought beds, and basins, and earthen vessels, and wheat, and barley, and flour, and parched corn, and beans, and lentiles, and parched pulse, And honey, and butter, and sheep, and cheese of kine, for David, and for the people that were with him, to eat: for they said, The people is hungry, and weary, and thirsty, in the wilderness.” (II Samuel 17:27-29)

David had fought and captured the city of Rabbah.  The brother of the king who David defeated, and leaders of two other Ammonite communities brought some  conveniences  such as beds, cooking utensils and a variety of staple foods, including grains, flour, cooked cereals and beans , along with cheese, sheep and butter because they realized that the people were hungry and tired.  It says quite a lot about the respect David’s administration earned, that even former enemies and subject nations stood with him against  Absalom’s effort to usurp the kingdom.

Hushai Counters Ahithophel’s Advice

II Samuel 16:15-17:14

“And Absalom, and all the people the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him.  And it came to pass, when Hushai the Archite, David's friend, was come unto Absalom, that Hushai said unto Absalom, God save the king, God save the king. 

And Absalom said to Hushai, Is this thy kindness to thy friend? why wentest thou not with thy friend? 

And Hushai said unto Absalom, Nay; but whom the LORD, and this people, and all the men of Israel, choose, his will I be, and with him will I abide.  And again, whom should I serve? should I not serve in the presence of his son? as I have served in thy father's presence, so will I be in thy presence.” (II Samuel 16:15-19) 

Hushai was a personal friend, and David asked him to see if he could discredit Ahithophel’s advice.  When Absalom and his followers came into Jerusalem, Hushai was there to greet them.  Knowing he was David’s friend, Absalom was immediately suspicious, asking why he hadn’t gone with David.

Hushai responded that he was more concerned with Israel and what God wanted than who was the king.  He would serve whoever was king equally well.  Human nature usually assumes others have the same feelings and motivations as oneself, and since Absalom was betraying his own father to gain power, he accepted that Hushai would betray his friend for the same reason.

“Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, Give counsel among you what we shall do. 

And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto thy father's concubines, which he hath left to keep the house; and all Israel shall hear that thou art abhorred of thy father: then shall the hands of all that are with thee be strong. 

So they spread Absalom a tent upon the top of the house; and Absalom went in unto his father's concubines in the sight of all Israel. 

And the counsel of Ahithophel, which he counselled in those days, was as if a man had inquired at the oracle of God: so was all the counsel of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom.” (II Samuel 16:20-23)

Ahithophel’s advice was so often right that it had come to be considered as good as a message from God, so Absalom asked him what he should do to cement his control of the kingdom.  Ahithophel’s advice was to publicly destroy any hope of reconciliation with his father by openly having sex with his common law wives in a public display of disrespect.   It would imply that David had lost all his power, and convince many that there was no possibility of David regaining influence as long as Absalom remained in power.   People would be forced to accept the new order.

While this advice would further widen the gap between David and Absalom and make it obvious there would be no future collaboration, it was also a direct attack on God’s moral law.  Leviticus 20:11commands, “And the man that lieth with his father's wife hath uncovered his father's nakedness: both of them shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.”  As a deliberate act of disrespect, it also violated Deuteronomy 5:16.  “Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.”

While the immediate effect would be to secure him the kingdom, it would also bring the wrath of God on Absalom, but he wasn’t very concerned about it.  He had already murdered his brother, and now he was trying to murder his father.  Having sex with his father’s wives to show his disdain seemed relatively minor.  Though he didn’t realize it, it also demonstrated his disdain for God.

“Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night: And I will come upon him while he is weary and weak handed, and will make him afraid: and all the people that are with him shall flee; and I will smite the king only: And I will bring back all the people unto thee: the man whom thou seekest is as if all returned: so all the people shall be in peace.” (II Samuel 17:1-3) 

Ahithophel also advises that he be allowed to take twelve thousand men and attack David before he had a chance to rally his troops and prepare their defense.  If he made the attack fast enough, David’s forces would be intimidated and might well collapse, allowing him to capture ofr kill David, and eliminate any future problems.

“And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.  Then said Absalom, Call now Hushai the Archite also, and let us hear likewise what he saith.

And when Hushai was come to Absalom, Absalom spake unto him, saying, Ahithophel hath spoken after this manner: shall we do after his saying? if not; speak thou.” (II Samuel 17:4-6)

While Absalom and the leaders liked Ahithophel’s advice, they decided to see what Hushai thought about it.  Since he was a personal friend of David’s, he would have a good idea how David would react, and it would give a chance to test Hushai’s loyalty to Absalom.

“And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given is not good at this time.  For, said Hushai, thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds, as a bear robbed of her whelps in the field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge with the people.  Behold, he is hid now in some pit, or in some other place: and it will come to pass, when some of them be overthrown at the first, that whosoever heareth it will say, There is a slaughter among the people that follow Absalom.  And he also that is valiant, whose heart is as the heart of a lion, shall utterly melt: for all Israel knoweth that thy father is a mighty man, and they which be with him are valiant men. 

Therefore I counsel that all Israel be generally gathered unto thee, from Dan even to Beersheba, as the sand that is by the sea for multitude; and that thou go to battle in thine own person.  So shall we come upon him in some place where he shall be found, and we will light upon him as the dew falleth on the ground: and of him and of all the men that are with him there shall not be left so much as one.  Moreover, if he be gotten into a city, then shall all Israel bring ropes to that city, and we will draw it into the river, until there be not one small stone found there.” (II Samuel 17:7-13)

Hushai reminded them that David and his men were experienced warriors and would require little time to prepare themselves and would be eager to fight.  If they were even partially successful in standing off Ahithophel’s army, it would raise questions about his leadership, weakening rather than strengthening his position.

Instead, Hushai recommended that the entire nation be gathered and go in force against him with enough people to ensure victory, totally wiping out all his supporter.  With such a strong force, they could  literally drag any city which sheltered him into the sea, forcing them to give him up.  There would be no possible way for David to win.

“And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom.” (II Samuel 17:14)

The thought of wiping out all of David’s supporter sand eliminating any possible opposition in one fell swoop appealed to Absalom and the leaders.  With the backing of the entire nation, it didn’t seem possible to be defeated.  They had no idea that God was answering David’s prayer by annulling Ahithophel’s advice.  Absalom was not going to get by with his sin.

While it is wise to get advice, one needs to remember that ultimately, the responsibility falls on oneself.  Choosing the option that most appealed would turn out to be a fatal decision.