TRV
Translation
King James Version
So Hushai David's friend came into the city, and Absalom came into Jerusalem.
Complete Jewish Bible
So Hushai David's friend came into the city when Avshalom was about to enter Yerushalayim.
Berean Standard Bible
So David’s friend Hushai arrived in Jerusalem just as Absalom was entering the city.
American Standard Version
So Hushai, David’s friend, came into the city; and Absalom came into Jerusalem.
World English Bible Messianic
So Hushai, David’s friend, came into the city; and Absalom came into Jerusalem.
Geneva Bible (1599)
So Hushai Dauids friend went into the citie: and Absalom came into Ierusalem.
Young's Literal Translation
And Hushai, David's friend, cometh in to the city, and Absalom cometh in to Jerusalem.
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In the KJVVerse 8,427 of 31,102
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Commentary on 2 Samuel 15 verses 31–37
31 ¶ And one told David, saying, Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom. And David said, O LORD, I pray thee, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness.
32 And it came to pass, that when David was come to the top of the mount, where he worshipped God, behold, Hushai the Archite came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his head:
33 Unto whom David said, If thou passest on with me, then thou shalt be a burden unto me:
34 But if thou return to the city, and say unto Absalom, I will be thy servant, O king; as I have been thy father's servant hitherto, so will I now also be thy servant: then mayest thou for me defeat the counsel of Ahithophel.
35 And hast thou not there with thee Zadok and Abiathar the priests? therefore it shall be, that what thing soever thou shalt hear out of the king's house, thou shalt tell it to Zadok and Abiathar the priests.
36 Behold, they have there with them their two sons, Ahimaaz Zadok's son, and Jonathan Abiathar's son; and by them ye shall send unto me every thing that ye can hear.
37 So Hushai David's friend came into the city, and Absalom came into Jerusalem.
Nothing, it seems, appeared to David more threatening in Absalom's plot than that Ahithophel was in it; for one good head, in such a design, is worth a thousand good hands. Absalom was himself no politician, but he had got one entirely in his interest that was, and would be the more dangerous because he had been all along acquainted with David's counsels and affairs; if therefore he can be baffled, Absalom is as good as routed and the head of the conspiracy cut off. This David endeavours to do.
I. By prayer. When he heard that Ahithophel was in the plot he lifted up his heart to God in this short prayer: Lord, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness, Sa2 15:31. He had not opportunity for a long prayer, but he was not one of those that thought he should be heard for his much speaking. It was a fervent prayer: "Lord, I pray thee, do this." God is well pleased with the importunity of those that come to him with their petitions. David is particular in this prayer; he names the person whose counsels he prays against. God gives us leave, in prayer, to be humbly and reverently free with him, and to mention the particular care, and fear, and grief, that lies heavily upon us. David prayed not against Ahithophel's person, but against his counsel, that God would turn it into foolishness, that, though he was a wise man, he might at this time give foolish counsel, or, if he gave wise counsel, that it might be rejected as foolish, or, if it were followed, that by some providence or other it might be defeated, and not attain the end. David prayed this in a firm belief that God has all hearts in his hand, and tongues too, that, when he pleases, he can take away the understanding of the aged and make the judges fools, (Job 12:17; Isa 3:2, Isa 3:3), and in hope that God would own and plead his just and injured cause. Note, We may pray in faith, and should pray with fervency, that God will turn that counsel into foolishness which is taken against his people.
II. By policy. We must second our prayer with our endeavours, else we tempt God. It is good service to countermine the policy of the church's enemies. When David came to the top of the mount, he worshipped God, Sa2 15:32. Note, Weeping must not hinder worshipping, but quicken it rather. Now he penned the third Psalm, as appears by the title; and some think that his singing this was the worship he now paid to God. Just now Providence brought Hushai to him. While he was yet speaking, God heard, and sent him the person that should be instrumental to befool Ahithophel. He came to condole with David on his present trouble, with his coat rent and earth upon his head; but David, having a great deal of confidence in his conduct and faithfulness, resolved to employ him as a spy upon Absalom. He would not take him with him (Sa2 15:33), for he had now more need of soldiers than counsellors, but sent him back to Jerusalem, to wait for Absalom's arrival, as a deserter from David, and to offer him his service, Sa2 15:34. Thus he might insinuate himself into his counsels, and defeat Ahithophel, either by dissuading Absalom from following his advice or by discovering it to David, that he might know where to stand upon his guard. How this gross dissimulation, which David put Hushai upon, can be justified, as a stratagem in war, I do not see. The best that can be made of it is that Absalom, if he rebel against his father, must stand upon his guard against all mankind, and, if he will be deceived, let him be deceived. David recommended Hushai to Zadok and Abiathar, as persons proper to be consulted with (Sa2 15:35), and to their two sons, as trusty men to be sent on errands to David, Sa2 15:36. Hushai, thus instructed, came to Jerusalem (Sa2 15:37), whither also Absalom soon after came with his forces. How soon do royal palaces and royal cities change their masters! But we look for a kingdom which cannot be thus shaken and in the possession of which we cannot be disturbed.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 31–37. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
2 Samuel 15:37 marks a critical juncture in Absalom's rebellion, succinctly detailing the simultaneous arrival of two pivotal figures in Jerusalem: Hushai, King David's loyal friend and strategic agent, and Absalom, the rebellious prince. This dual entry into the capital sets the immediate stage for a profound strategic and spiritual contest, where human cunning and divine providence intertwine to shape the unfolding drama of David's kingdom and the trajectory of the revolt.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its significance and foreshadow the unfolding narrative. Foremost is Juxtaposition, as the simultaneous arrival of Hushai and Absalom in Jerusalem immediately highlights the stark contrast between their intentions and roles. Hushai enters as a loyal agent of the legitimate king, operating in stealth and deception for a righteous cause, while Absalom enters as the rebellious usurper, publicly asserting his newfound power. This creates a powerful sense of dramatic Irony, as Absalom's apparent triumph is, unbeknownst to him, already being undermined by the very "friend" of his father who has just entered his domain. The verse also utilizes Foreshadowing, signaling the impending conflict of counsel that will determine the outcome of the rebellion. The presence of both figures in the capital sets the stage for the intellectual and strategic battle that will unfold in subsequent chapters. Finally, Symbolism is present in the choice of "Jerusalem" as the setting, representing not just a physical city but the very heart of the kingdom and the destiny of David's lineage, making the dual entry into this sacred space profoundly meaningful for the future of God's chosen people.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Samuel 15:37, though brief, is rich in theological implications, serving as a powerful illustration of God's sovereign hand at work even amidst human rebellion and political chaos. The narrative demonstrates that while human plans and schemes unfold, the Lord remains ultimately in control, orchestrating events to fulfill His divine purposes. Hushai's mission, seemingly a mere human strategy, becomes an instrument of divine intervention, demonstrating God's ability to "turn wise counsel into foolishness" 2 Samuel 17:14. This highlights a consistent biblical theme: God often uses unexpected means and seemingly ordinary individuals to achieve extraordinary ends, protecting His anointed and preserving His covenantal promises. The verse subtly reinforces the idea that true wisdom and ultimate victory come not from human cunning alone, but from alignment with God's will and reliance on His providential care. It reminds us that even in the darkest moments of betrayal and uncertainty, God is actively working behind the scenes to accomplish His eternal plan.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The simultaneous arrival of Hushai and Absalom in Jerusalem, each with a distinct and opposing purpose, offers profound insights into the nature of loyalty, betrayal, and divine providence in our own lives. In moments of personal or communal upheaval, this narrative reminds us that God is not absent, but often works through the quiet, strategic acts of faithful individuals. It challenges us to consider where our true loyalties lie and whether we are willing to act on behalf of what is right, even when it requires personal risk or unconventional methods. The story underscores the invaluable nature of trusted relationships, like that between David and Hushai, which can serve as instruments of God's protection and provision in times of adversity. It encourages us to discern carefully the counsel we receive, recognizing that not all "wise" advice aligns with God's ultimate purposes. Ultimately, it calls us to trust in God's overarching plan, even when circumstances seem chaotic and unpredictable, recognizing that His wisdom can thwart the most cunning of human schemes and bring about His intended outcome, ensuring His faithfulness to His promises.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was Hushai's specific mission in Jerusalem?
Answer: Hushai's mission, given directly by King David, was twofold: first, to feign loyalty to Absalom and gain his trust, thereby becoming his advisor, and second, and most critically, to "defeat the counsel of Ahithophel" 2 Samuel 15:34. Ahithophel was Absalom's chief advisor, renowned for his wise counsel, and David knew that Ahithophel's advice, if followed, could lead to his swift and utter destruction. Hushai was to act as a double agent, providing counter-counsel that would delay Absalom's pursuit of David, thereby giving David time to regroup and prepare for battle. This strategic deception, rooted in unwavering loyalty to David, was crucial for David's survival and eventual restoration to his throne.
What was the significance of both Absalom and Hushai entering Jerusalem simultaneously?
Answer: The simultaneous entry of Absalom and Hushai into Jerusalem is highly significant because it immediately sets the stage for the central conflict of the rebellion: a battle of wits and counsel that would ultimately determine the fate of the kingdom. Absalom's entry signifies his apparent triumph and the establishment of his rebellious reign in the capital, symbolizing his successful usurpation of power. Hushai's entry, however, represents David's counter-strategy and the infiltration of the rebellion's inner circle. This dual arrival creates dramatic tension, foreshadowing the clash between Ahithophel's shrewd but ultimately thwarted advice and Hushai's divinely inspired counter-counsel. It highlights that while Absalom believed he was consolidating power, the seeds of his downfall were already being sown by a loyal agent of David within his newly acquired domain, demonstrating God's providential hand at work even in the midst of human rebellion.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of David's flight, Absalom's betrayal, and Hushai's strategic loyalty in 2 Samuel 15:37 finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the ultimate King, Jesus Christ. David, though a flawed king, foreshadows the righteous and eternal King, Jesus. Just as David faced betrayal from his own son, Jesus experienced ultimate betrayal from one of His own disciples, Judas Iscariot Luke 22:48. However, unlike David, who fled Jerusalem, Jesus willingly entered Jerusalem, knowing it would lead to His crucifixion, not as a fleeing king but as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Hushai's role as a loyal friend who strategically thwarts the counsel of the enemy points to the divine wisdom of God, which ultimately confounds the schemes of Satan and the wisdom of this world 1 Corinthians 1:25. God's providential hand, which preserved David's throne and lineage through Hushai's intervention, ultimately ensured the coming of the Messiah. The temporary usurpation of David's throne by Absalom, though chaotic, was ultimately overruled by God's sovereign plan to establish an eternal kingdom through His Son. Christ's kingdom, unlike David's, is not threatened by human rebellion; it is an everlasting dominion that shall not pass away, secured by His perfect obedience, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection. Thus, 2 Samuel 15:37, with its themes of betrayal, loyalty, and divine intervention, points forward to the greater narrative of God's unwavering faithfulness in establishing His eternal kingdom through the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ, whose reign will never end.