2 Samuel 16:17

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

And Absalom {H53} said {H559} to Hushai {H2365}, Is this thy kindness {H2617} to thy friend {H7453}? why wentest {H1980} thou not with thy friend {H7453}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Avshalom asked Hushai, "Is this how you show kindness to your friend? Why didn't you go with your friend?"

Berean Standard Bible

“Is this the loyalty you show your friend?” Absalom replied. “Why did you not go with your friend?”

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Samuel 16:17, Absalom, having seized Jerusalem and declared himself king, directly confronts Hushai the Archite, a renowned and trusted counselor of his father, King David. Absalom's pointed questions convey suspicion and disbelief, challenging Hushai's apparent shift in allegiance and questioning why he, a known confidant and friend, did not accompany the fleeing King David. This pivotal interrogation provides Hushai the crucial opportunity to articulate his carefully constructed, feigned loyalty to Absalom, thereby setting in motion David's strategic counter-plan to undermine the rebellion from within Absalom's own inner circle.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed at a critical juncture in the unfolding narrative of Absalom's audacious rebellion against King David. Immediately preceding this encounter, David has been forced into a hasty and sorrowful flight from Jerusalem, a desperate retreat vividly depicted in [2 Samuel 15:13-17](/2_samuel/15-13-17 "2 Samuel 15:13-17 - David's Flight from Jerusalem"). As David departed, he orchestrated a brilliant counter-strategy: he instructed Hushai, his loyal and wise counselor, to remain in Jerusalem and feign allegiance to Absalom. Hushai's perilous mission was to infiltrate Absalom's court and, crucially, to deliberately counteract the shrewd and often devastating counsel of Ahithophel, another of David's former advisors who had treacherously defected to Absalom's side ([2 Samuel 15:32-37](/2_samuel/15-32-37 "2 Samuel 15:32-37 - David's Strategic Instructions to Hushai")). Absalom's direct and challenging questions to Hushai in [2 Samuel 16:17](/2_samuel/16-17 "2 Samuel 16:17 - Absalom Questions Hushai") immediately follow Hushai's dramatic and public declaration of loyalty, "Long live the king! Long live the king!" to Absalom upon his arrival in Jerusalem ([2 Samuel 16:16](/2_samuel/16-16 "2 Samuel 16:16 - Hushai Greets Absalom")). This tense exchange thus serves as the crucial opening for Hushai to begin his pivotal role in subverting Absalom's plans, a role that culminates in the divinely orchestrated thwarting of Ahithophel's counsel, as detailed in [2 Samuel 17:14](/2_samuel/17-14 "2 Samuel 17:14 - Ahithophel's Counsel Thwarted by Divine Providence").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel and the broader Near East, loyalty to the reigning monarch was a foundational pillar of social and political order, often understood within the framework of covenantal or quasi-covenantal relationships. A king's "friends" or counselors held positions of immense trust, influence, and often, personal intimacy, and their unwavering allegiance was expected, especially during times of crisis or rebellion. Defection from the king was considered an act of profound betrayal, often punishable by death and carrying immense social stigma. The concept of "kindness" (Hebrew: *chesed*) was not merely a superficial act of benevolence but a deeply significant term denoting steadfast, loyal love, fidelity, and covenant faithfulness, particularly within established relationships. Absalom's question, therefore, is far from a casual inquiry; it is a direct challenge to Hushai's character, integrity, and adherence to the culturally ingrained expectations of fidelity and *chesed* towards his known friend, King David. Furthermore, the practice of seeking counsel from trusted advisors was a cornerstone of ancient Near Eastern kingship, making the ensuing battle of wits between Hushai and Ahithophel a matter of strategic national importance, with the fate of the kingdom hanging in the balance.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes prevalent throughout the books of Samuel. The most prominent tension revolves around **Loyalty and Betrayal**, as Absalom directly interrogates Hushai's fidelity, implying a perceived breach of the expected bond of friendship with David. This highlights the complex and often shifting allegiances that characterize periods of political upheaval and civil war, where trust is a fragile and valuable commodity. Closely intertwined is the theme of **Deception and Strategic Warfare**. Hushai's very presence in Absalom's court is a deliberate, calculated act of strategic deception, part of David's ingenious counter-plan to undermine the rebellion from within. Absalom's questioning inadvertently provides Hushai the perfect opportunity to articulate his feigned loyalty, setting the stage for his eventual success in countering Ahithophel's shrewd advice, which ultimately contributes to Absalom's downfall and the preservation of David's throne, as vividly narrated in [2 Samuel 17](/2_samuel/17 "2 Samuel 17 - Hushai Thwarts Ahithophel's Counsel"). Finally, the verse profoundly underscores the nature of **Friendship and Allegiance**, emphasizing the deep and known bond between David and Hushai. Absalom's question leverages this public knowledge, highlighting the social expectation that a true friend, especially a trusted counselor, would accompany a king in distress, thereby making Hushai's apparent defection all the more perplexing and suspicious in Absalom's eyes.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Kindness (Hebrew, _chêçêd'_):** The Hebrew term חֶסֶד (*chêçêd*) is a rich, multifaceted theological word, often translated as "lovingkindness," "mercy," "steadfast love," or "covenant loyalty." It signifies a loyal, enduring, and active love that extends beyond mere sentiment, frequently implying an obligation or commitment within a relationship or covenant. Absalom's use of *chêçêd* here is highly significant; he is not merely asking about a casual act of kindness but challenging Hushai's perceived failure in a deeper, more enduring form of loyalty and commitment to David. It implies a betrayal of a profound, expected bond of faithfulness.
* **Friend (Hebrew, _rêaʻ'_):** The Hebrew word רֵעַ (*rêaʻ*) is a common term for a companion, associate, neighbor, or friend. While it can denote a casual acquaintance, in the context of a king and his counselor, it implies a close, trusted, and often intimate relationship, typically with mutual obligations and shared confidences. Absalom's phrasing, "thy friend," specifically highlights the personal and intimate nature of Hushai's well-known relationship with David, making his apparent abandonment of the king all the more perplexing and suspicious from Absalom's perspective, and culturally scandalous.
* **wentest (Hebrew, _hâlak'_):** The Hebrew verb הָלַךְ (*hâlak*) is a primitive root meaning "to walk" or "to go," used with a wide variety of literal and figurative applications. In this context, it refers to the act of accompanying or moving with someone. Absalom's question, "why wentest thou not with thy friend?" directly challenges Hushai's physical absence from David's side during his flight. It implies a failure to physically demonstrate the expected loyalty and companionship that a true *rêaʻ* (friend) would exhibit, especially when the *rêaʻ* (friend) is in distress and fleeing for his life.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Absalom said to Hushai":** This opening clause immediately establishes the direct confrontation and the power dynamic. Absalom, now the de facto king and in a position of authority in Jerusalem, initiates the interrogation of Hushai, who has just presented himself. This sets a tense and critical scene, highlighting Absalom's suspicion and the high stakes of the ensuing dialogue.
* **"Is this thy kindness to thy friend?":** This rhetorical question is laden with suspicion, accusation, and incredulity. Absalom challenges Hushai's apparent disloyalty by appealing to the well-known and expected *chêçêd* (loyal kindness/steadfast love) that Hushai was known to have for David. The implication is that Hushai's current presence with Absalom, rather than with David, is a direct contradiction of this expected loyalty, making his actions seem perfidious and a profound betrayal of their bond.
* **"why wentest thou not with thy friend?":** This second, more direct question serves as a concrete accusation, demanding an immediate and specific explanation for Hushai's perceived abandonment of David. It underscores the cultural expectation that a true friend, especially one of Hushai's stature and closeness to the king, would remain by his side during adversity. This question, however, inadvertently provides Hushai the perfect opening to deliver his pre-planned, deceptive response, thereby initiating his crucial role in infiltrating Absalom's inner circle and undermining his rebellion.

#### Literary Devices
The verse is rich with potent literary devices that enhance its dramatic impact and thematic depth. **Dramatic Irony** is paramount, as the audience is fully aware of Hushai's true mission as David's loyal double agent ([2 Samuel 15:32-37](/2_samuel/15-32-37 "2 Samuel 15:32-37 - David's Instructions to Hushai")), while Absalom remains completely oblivious, genuinely questioning Hushai's motives. This creates significant tension and anticipation, as the reader knows Hushai's forthcoming response will be a calculated deception. Absalom's skillful use of **Rhetorical Questions** ("Is this thy kindness...?", "why wentest thou not...?") effectively conveys his skepticism and demands an immediate justification, yet these questions inadvertently provide Hushai with the very platform he needs to establish his feigned loyalty and begin his strategic work. Furthermore, the entire scene serves as a powerful moment of **Foreshadowing**, as Hushai's successful navigation of this initial interrogation sets the stage for his later, critical intervention in [2 Samuel 17](/2_samuel/17 "2 Samuel 17 - Hushai Thwarts Ahithophel's Counsel"), where he will ultimately undermine Absalom's campaign, leading directly to his demise and the preservation of David's throne.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This seemingly simple exchange between Absalom and Hushai is a microcosm of profound theological truths. It highlights the tension between human agency and divine sovereignty, demonstrating how God can use even human deception and political intrigue to accomplish His overarching purposes. While Absalom seeks to consolidate power through rebellion and suspicion, God is orchestrating events behind the scenes to protect His anointed king, David, and preserve the Davidic covenant. Hushai's loyal (to David) yet deceptive (to Absalom) actions serve as a powerful reminder that God's ways are often mysterious and complex, working through intricate human interactions to bring about His will, even when those interactions involve moral ambiguities. The steadfast love (*chesed*) that Absalom questions is precisely what God demonstrates to His people—a loyal, covenantal love that transcends human fickleness, betrayal, and the chaos of rebellion, ensuring His ultimate plan prevails.

* [Proverbs 27:10](/proverbs/27-10 "Proverbs 27:10 - Do Not Forsake Your Friend")
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord Frustrates the Plans of the Nations")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The interrogation of Hushai by Absalom invites us to reflect deeply on the nature of true loyalty, the complexities inherent in human relationships, and the overarching providence of God actively at work amidst chaos and betrayal. In a world often marked by shifting allegiances, self-interest, and the pursuit of power, Hushai's underlying fidelity to David, even when cloaked in necessary deception, challenges us to consider where our ultimate loyalties truly lie. Are we loyal to fleeting circumstances, personal gain, or to God Himself and His eternal purposes? The narrative also powerfully underscores the vital importance of discernment; Absalom, despite his initial suspicions, ultimately fails to see through Hushai's carefully crafted facade, a critical misjudgment that directly contributes to his downfall. This serves as a poignant reminder for us to earnestly pray for wisdom and discernment in our own interactions, especially when trust is at stake and intentions may be veiled. Ultimately, this passage offers profound comfort: even when human plans unravel, when betrayal seems to triumph, and when circumstances appear utterly out of control, God remains sovereign, working through unexpected means and seemingly contradictory actions to bring about His redemptive purposes. Our call is to trust His guiding hand, even when we cannot fully trace His intricate steps.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Absalom's questioning of Hushai challenge our understanding of loyalty and friendship in times of personal or collective crisis?**
* **In what ways might God be working through complex or morally ambiguous situations in our lives to achieve His greater, often unseen, purposes?**
* **What does Hushai's strategic deception teach us about the tension between human plans and divine providence, and how should we navigate such tensions?**
* **How can we cultivate spiritual discernment to recognize true intentions, even when they are hidden or disguised by circumstances or appearances?**

### FAQ
**Why did Hushai choose to stay with Absalom instead of fleeing with David?**

Answer: Hushai did not choose to stay with Absalom out of disloyalty or fear, but rather at the explicit and strategic instruction of King David. As David fled Jerusalem, he encountered Hushai and commanded him to return to the city and feign loyalty to Absalom. David's profound strategic purpose was for Hushai to infiltrate Absalom's inner circle and specifically to counteract the counsel of Ahithophel, who was known for his shrewd and incredibly effective advice ([2 Samuel 15:32-37](/2_samuel/15-32-37 "2 Samuel 15:32-37 - David's Instructions to Hushai")). Hushai's mission was a dangerous but crucial act of loyal service, designed to buy David precious time and ultimately undermine Absalom's rebellion from within.

**What was the significance of Ahithophel's counsel, and how did Hushai counter it?**

Answer: Ahithophel was renowned throughout Israel for his incredibly wise and effective counsel, which was considered "as if one consulted the oracle of God" ([2 Samuel 16:23](/2_samuel/16-23 "2 Samuel 16:23 - Ahithophel's Counsel")). His initial advice to Absalom was to immediately pursue David with a swift and decisive strike, which would have likely crushed David's forces before they could regroup. Hushai, acting on David's behalf and with divine inspiration, presented an alternative counsel that appealed directly to Absalom's vanity and desire for a grand, overwhelming, personal victory. Hushai advised Absalom to gather all of Israel's forces for a massive, personal assault, which would take more time, allowing David to escape further and organize his defenses. This crucial delay proved fatal for Absalom and ultimately led to Ahithophel's suicide when his superior counsel was rejected in favor of Hushai's ([2 Samuel 17:1-23](/2_samuel/17-1-23 "2 Samuel 17 - Hushai Thwarts Ahithophel's Counsel")).

**How did this incident contribute to Absalom's downfall?**

Answer: This incident was absolutely central and indispensable to Absalom's downfall. By successfully convincing Absalom to reject Ahithophel's immediate and strategically sound advice, Hushai bought David precious time—time that was critical for David to cross the Jordan River, gather his loyal forces, and prepare for battle ([2 Samuel 17:24](/2_samuel/17-24 "2 Samuel 17:24 - David Crosses the Jordan")). Had Absalom followed Ahithophel's counsel, David's rebellion would likely have been swiftly and brutally suppressed. Hushai's deceptive counsel, divinely orchestrated, directly led to Absalom's eventual defeat and death in the battle that followed ([2 Samuel 18](/2_samuel/18 "2 Samuel 18 - Absalom's Defeat and Death")), thereby preserving David's kingship and the continuation of the Davidic line.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The intricate web of loyalty, betrayal, and strategic deception in 2 Samuel 16:17, though morally complex in its human execution, ultimately points to the greater faithfulness and ultimate triumph of God's redemptive plan in Christ. Just as Hushai, a loyal friend, willingly entered the enemy's camp to secure the king's deliverance, so too did Christ, the ultimate friend of sinners, enter a world hostile to God to secure our salvation. While Hushai’s deception was a necessary human strategy for an earthly kingdom, Christ's mission was one of perfect truth, transparency, and self-sacrifice. He did not feign loyalty to an earthly usurper, but rather, in profound humility and obedience, submitted Himself to the will of His Father, even unto death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). Absalom's suspicion of Hushai's "kindness" (*chesed*) highlights a broken human understanding of loyalty and fidelity, yet in Christ, we see the perfect embodiment of God's unwavering steadfast love, His eternal *chesed*, demonstrated not by strategic subterfuge but by His willingness to lay down His life for His friends ([John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love Has No One Than This")) and even for His enemies ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love for Us")). The preservation of David's throne through Hushai's divinely assisted actions foreshadows the eternal and unshakable kingdom established by Jesus, the true Son of David, whose victory over sin, death, and all spiritual enemies was achieved not through human cunning but through divine power, perfect obedience, and sacrificial love ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Samuel 19:25

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?

Proverbs 17:17

¶ A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

2 Samuel 15:32

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:

2 Samuel 15:37

So Hushai David's friend came into the city, and Absalom came into Jerusalem.

Proverbs 18:24

¶ A man [that hath] friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend [that] sticketh closer than a brother.

Deuteronomy 32:6

Do ye thus requite the LORD, O foolish people and unwise? [is] not he thy father [that] hath bought thee? hath he not made thee, and established thee?