2 Samuel 16:18

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Hushai {H2365} said {H559} unto Absalom {H53}, Nay; but whom the LORD {H3068}, and this people {H5971}, and all the men {H376} of Israel {H3478}, choose {H977}, his will I be, and with him will I abide {H3427}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Hushai replied, "No, but whomever ADONAI and this people and all the men of Isra'el choose, his I will be; and with him I will stay.

Berean Standard Bible

“Not at all,” Hushai answered. “For the one chosen by the LORD, by the people, and by all the men of Israel—his I will be, and with him I will remain.

American Standard Version

And Hushai said unto Absalom, Nay; but whom Jehovah, and this people, and all the men of Israel have chosen, his will I be, and with him will I abide.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 16:18 captures a pivotal moment of strategic deception by Hushai the Archite, who, acting as King David's secret agent, feigns unwavering loyalty to Absalom during his rebellion. In this masterstroke of political cunning, Hushai declares his allegiance to "whom the LORD, and this people, and all the men of Israel, choose," subtly aligning his words with Absalom's perceived popular legitimacy while secretly intending to undermine the usurper's plans and secure the restoration of David, God's true anointed king. This carefully crafted statement was instrumental in setting the stage for the frustration of Ahithophel's astute counsel and the eventual collapse of Absalom's revolt.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed at a critical juncture in the unfolding drama of Absalom's rebellion, immediately following King David's hurried flight from Jerusalem as recounted in [2 Samuel 15:14](/2_samuel/15-14 "2 Samuel 15:14 - David's Flight from Jerusalem"). David, despite his distress, demonstrates remarkable foresight and strategic acumen. He had specifically instructed his loyal and shrewd counselor, Hushai, to return to Jerusalem with a crucial mission: to infiltrate Absalom's inner circle and, most importantly, to counteract the dangerous and highly influential advice of Ahithophel, who had shockingly defected from David's side to join Absalom ([2 Samuel 15:31](/2_samuel/15-31 "2 Samuel 15:31 - Ahithophel Joins Absalom") and [2 Samuel 15:34](/2_samuel/15-34 "2 Samuel 15:34 - David Instructs Hushai")). Upon Hushai's arrival, Absalom questions his presence, given Hushai's long-standing and well-known loyalty to David. Hushai's reply in [2 Samuel 16:18](/2_samuel/16-18 "2 Samuel 16:18 - Hushai's Deceptive Loyalty") is a meticulously crafted response, designed to immediately gain Absalom's trust and position himself to execute David's counter-strategy, thereby saving the kingdom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The concept of kingship in ancient Israel was inherently complex, often involving a delicate balance between divine election and popular acclamation. While kings like Saul and David were anointed by God's prophet, signifying divine choice, their rule also required the acceptance and support of the people to be fully established and maintained. Absalom's rebellion, meticulously detailed in [2 Samuel 15](/2_samuel/15 "2 Samuel 15 - Absalom's Rebellion Begins"), masterfully capitalized on existing popular discontent and Absalom's charismatic appeal, effectively "stealing the hearts of the men of Israel" ([2 Samuel 15:6](/2_samuel/15-6 "2 Samuel 15:6 - Absalom Steals the Hearts of Israel")). In such a volatile political climate, a counselor's loyalty was paramount, and defection was universally seen as a grave act of treachery. Hushai's statement, "whom the LORD, and this people, and all the men of Israel, choose," cleverly taps into this dual understanding of legitimate rule. He frames his loyalty in terms that Absalom, who had successfully garnered popular support, would find appealing and validating, while subtly referencing the divine element that Absalom himself claimed (e.g., through his pretense of fulfilling a vow to the LORD in Hebron, [2 Samuel 15:7-9](/2_samuel/15-7-9 "2 Samuel 15:7-9 - Absalom's Vow in Hebron")). This nuanced approach allowed Hushai to appear fully committed to Absalom's cause without betraying his true allegiance to David.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Samuel 16:18](/2_samuel/16-18 "2 Samuel 16:18 - Hushai's Deceptive Loyalty") powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of 2 Samuel. Firstly, it highlights **strategic deception** as a complex tool in political and military maneuvering. Hushai's calculated act of feigned loyalty is not for personal gain but for the preservation of David's legitimate kingship and, by extension, God's anointed order. Secondly, the narrative underscores the profound interplay between **divine sovereignty and human agency**. While Hushai employs human cunning and political astuteness, the broader unfolding of events reveals that God is actively orchestrating circumstances to fulfill His purposes, ultimately frustrating the counsel of Ahithophel and securing David's return ([2 Samuel 17:14](/2_samuel/17-14 "2 Samuel 17:14 - The Lord Frustrates Ahithophel's Counsel")). This demonstrates that even in the midst of human treachery and intricate schemes, God remains sovereign, guiding events towards His intended outcome. Finally, the verse speaks to the **legitimacy of kingship**, subtly reaffirming that true rule in Israel involved both divine election and popular consent, a standard Absalom sought to usurp but ultimately failed to secure in God's eyes.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Choose (Hebrew, _bâchar_):** This verb (H977) signifies selection, election, or preference. In the context of Israelite monarchy, it carries profound theological weight, as kings were understood to be "chosen" by God (e.g., [1 Samuel 16:12](/1_samuel/16-12 "1 Samuel 16:12 - Samuel Anoints David") regarding David). Hushai's use of "whom the LORD... choose" is a brilliant rhetorical move. It allows him to appear principled and aligned with divine will, while simultaneously acknowledging Absalom's perceived popular legitimacy. For Absalom, it validates his ascent; for Hushai, it is a veiled reference to God's true choice, David, whose kingship was divinely established.
* **Abide (Hebrew, _yâshab_):** Derived from the primitive root (H3427) meaning "to sit down, dwell, remain, inhabit." In this context, "abide" conveys a sense of enduring loyalty, steadfast presence, and commitment to serve. The form used in the verse, "will I abide" (אֶשְׁכֹּן, _'eshkon'_), emphasizes a future, continuous presence. Hushai's declaration "with him will I abide" promises a lasting allegiance, which is precisely what Absalom needs from a seasoned and respected counselor like Hushai. The profound irony lies in the fact that Hushai intends to "abide" only long enough to strategically dismantle Absalom's plans and ensure David's return.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Hushai said unto Absalom, Nay;":** This initial word, "Nay," is crucial for Hushai's deception. It serves as a direct, unequivocal refutation of Absalom's implicit accusation or question about Hushai's continued loyalty to David. This sharp rejection of his previous allegiance is designed to immediately disarm Absalom's suspicion and open the door for Hushai's feigned commitment to the usurper. It establishes a false premise of a clean break from David.
* **"but whom the LORD, and this people, and all the men of Israel, choose,":** This clause is the heart of Hushai's deceptive brilliance and rhetorical mastery. By invoking "the LORD," he appeals to divine authority, which Absalom himself would claim to possess or desire as a legitimation for his rebellion. By adding "this people, and all the men of Israel," he shrewdly acknowledges the popular acclamation that Absalom had successfully garnered ([2 Samuel 15:6](/2_samuel/15-6 "2 Samuel 15:6 - Absalom Steals the Hearts of Israel")). This tripartite declaration of choice—divine, popular, and national—is a powerful statement of legitimacy that Absalom, in his ambition, would find irresistible and validating for his own usurpation.
* **"his will I be, and with him will I abide.":** This is Hushai's declaration of allegiance and commitment. The phrase "his will I be" signifies complete submission and dedication to the chosen leader, while "with him will I abide" promises continued presence, support, and steadfast counsel. To Absalom, these words signify loyalty to himself and his cause; to the discerning reader, knowing Hushai's true mission from David, they are a profound example of strategic ambiguity and double meaning, highlighting Hushai's dangerous but loyal mission.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in [2 Samuel 16:18](/2_samuel/16-18 "2 Samuel 16:18 - Hushai's Deceptive Loyalty") is **Irony**, specifically **Dramatic Irony**. The audience is fully aware of Hushai's true intentions and his secret mission from David ([2 Samuel 15:32-37](/2_samuel/15-32-37 "2 Samuel 15:32-37 - David Sends Hushai Back to Jerusalem")), while Absalom remains completely oblivious, taking Hushai's words at face value. This creates a palpable tension between what is spoken and what is truly meant, underscoring Hushai's profound cunning and the precariousness of Absalom's position. Closely related is **Double Entendre** or **Ambiguity**, as Hushai's words are meticulously chosen to carry one meaning for Absalom (unwavering loyalty to him) and another, deeper, and ironic meaning for the informed reader (unwavering loyalty to the divinely chosen king, David). The phrase "whom the LORD... choose" is particularly rich in this ambiguity, as God's true choice was David, not Absalom. Furthermore, the passage employs **Characterization**, vividly portraying Hushai as a shrewd, loyal, and resourceful individual, willing to undertake a dangerous and ethically complex mission for his king and for the preservation of God's established order. This strategic deception also serves as **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the eventual frustration of Absalom's plans and the ultimate triumph of David, orchestrated by divine providence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hushai's deceptive loyalty in [2 Samuel 16:18](/2_samuel/16-18 "2 Samuel 16:18 - Hushai's Deceptive Loyalty") serves as a powerful illustration of God's sovereign hand at work, even in the midst of human chaos, rebellion, and intricate political maneuvering. While Hushai's actions involve a calculated deception, the broader biblical narrative consistently demonstrates that God can use unexpected means and even morally ambiguous human choices to achieve His righteous purposes. This episode underscores the profound theme that "the counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations" ([Psalm 33:11](/psalms/33-11 "Psalm 33:11 - The Counsel of the Lord Stands Forever")). It reveals that God's ultimate plan for His anointed king, David, would prevail despite the formidable threat posed by Absalom and his astute counselor, Ahithophel. The narrative implicitly teaches that true legitimacy in leadership ultimately derives from God's appointment and blessing, not merely from popular acclaim or human cunning. God's wisdom is ultimately superior to all human schemes, and He orchestrates events to fulfill His divine will.

* [Proverbs 21:30](/proverbs/21-30 "Proverbs 21:30 - No Wisdom Against the Lord")
* [Psalm 76:10](/psalms/76-10 "Psalm 76:10 - The Wrath of Man Praises God")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hushai's story in [2 Samuel 16:18](/2_samuel/16-18 "2 Samuel 16:18 - Hushai's Deceptive Loyalty") offers a complex tapestry for profound reflection and practical application. While his deception presents an ethical challenge, the narrative invites us to consider the broader context of divine sovereignty and God's active involvement in human affairs. In times of great turmoil, when legitimate authority is challenged, chaos seems to reign, and the future appears uncertain, this verse powerfully reminds us that God is actively working behind the scenes. He often uses unexpected and even humanly flawed means to bring about His perfect purposes, demonstrating His ability to turn the tables on seemingly insurmountable odds. This narrative challenges us to cultivate a deep trust in God's overarching plan, even when circumstances seem overwhelmingly against us or when human schemes appear to prevail. It also prompts us to discern true leadership—leadership that is ultimately aligned with God's will and the welfare of His people, rather than merely popular appeal, charismatic personality, or self-interest. While we are unequivocally called to truthfulness and integrity in our daily lives, this unique historical moment, divinely orchestrated, highlights God's profound ability to use all things, including the "wisdom of the world" that is foolishness to Him, to accomplish His divine and righteous will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Hushai's strategic deception, within its specific biblical context, challenge or affirm your understanding of ethical behavior and God's sovereignty?**
* **In what ways can we, as believers, discern and trust God's sovereign hand at work in difficult or chaotic situations in our own lives, our communities, or the world today?**
* **What does this narrative teach us about the nature of true, legitimate leadership, especially in contrast to leadership driven solely by ambition, popular opinion, or personal gain?**
* **How might we, like Hushai, be called to act wisely, strategically, and courageously for God's kingdom, even when the path is not straightforward or requires difficult choices?**

### FAQ
**Was Hushai's deception morally justifiable from a biblical perspective?**

Answer: The Bible often presents narratives without explicitly endorsing every action within them, allowing the reader to observe God's overarching plan and character. While deception is generally condemned in Scripture (e.g., [Proverbs 12:22](/proverbs/12-22 "Proverbs 12:22 - Lying Lips Are an Abomination to the Lord")), Hushai's case is a complex and unique one. His deception was not for personal gain, malicious intent, or to harm the innocent, but was a strategic act of loyalty to God's anointed king, David, and implicitly, to God's established order and the welfare of Israel. The narrative strongly implies divine approval and orchestration, as the Lord Himself "frustrated the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom" ([2 Samuel 17:14](/2_samuel/17-14 "2 Samuel 17:14 - The Lord Frustrates Ahithophel's Counsel")). This suggests that God, in His sovereignty, can use even human actions that might otherwise be questionable to achieve His righteous and redemptive purposes, particularly in the context of preserving His chosen lineage and preventing civil war's full devastation. It is a specific instance where a "lesser evil" (deception) serves a greater good (preserving the divinely appointed king and the stability of the nation), demonstrating God's ability to work through imperfect human agents and complex circumstances.

**How did Hushai's counsel ultimately help David and lead to Absalom's downfall?**

Answer: Hushai's deceptive counsel was absolutely instrumental in David's survival and Absalom's ultimate defeat. After successfully gaining Absalom's trust through his feigned loyalty, Hushai skillfully countered Ahithophel's initial, strategically sound advice to immediately pursue David with a swift, decisive strike ([2 Samuel 17:1-3](/2_samuel/17-1-3 "2 Samuel 17:1-3 - Ahithophel's Counsel to Pursue David")). Ahithophel's plan would likely have crushed David before he could regroup. Hushai, instead, proposed a more elaborate, time-consuming plan involving gathering a massive army from all Israel, with Absalom leading it personally ([2 Samuel 17:7-13](/2_samuel/17-7-13 "2 Samuel 17:7-13 - Hushai's Counsel to Absalom")). Crucially, Absalom and the elders of Israel preferred Hushai's counsel, because "the LORD had ordained to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom" ([2 Samuel 17:14](/2_samuel/17-14 "2 Samuel 17:14 - The Lord Frustrates Ahithophel's Counsel")). This critical delay allowed David precious time to cross the Jordan River, regroup his loyal forces, and prepare for battle, ultimately leading to Absalom's decisive defeat and death in the forest of Ephraim ([2 Samuel 18:6-15](/2_samuel/18-6-15 "2 Samuel 18:6-15 - Absalom's Defeat and Death")). Ahithophel, recognizing the fatal error and the divine hand against his counsel, went home and hanged himself in despair ([2 Samuel 17:23](/2_samuel/17-23 "2 Samuel 17:23 - Ahithophel's Suicide")), confirming the success of Hushai's mission.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hushai's cunning loyalty to David, the anointed king, serves as a remarkable foreshadowing of the ultimate divine wisdom at work in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Just as Hushai strategically positioned himself within the enemy's camp, appearing to serve Absalom while secretly working for David's restoration, so too did God's grand plan for salvation involve a seemingly paradoxical path. The wisdom of God, supremely manifested in Christ's humble incarnation, suffering, and sacrificial death on the cross, appeared as utter foolishness to the world and its rulers ([1 Corinthians 1:18-25](/1_corinthians/1-18-25 "1 Corinthians 1:18-25 - The Message of the Cross is Foolishness to Those Who are Perishing")). Yet, through this very "foolishness," God utterly defeated the true cosmic enemy, Satan, and secured the eternal reign of His Son. Jesus is the ultimate "chosen" one, not merely by popular acclamation or human election, but by divine decree and eternal purpose ([John 1:34](/john/1-34 "John 1:34 - John Testifies to Jesus as the Son of God"), [John 6:69](/john/6-69 "John 6:69 - Peter's Confession of Jesus as the Holy One of God")). Our loyalty, like Hushai's, is ultimately due to this true and eternal King, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), whose kingdom is not of this world ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of This World")), yet will ultimately prevail over all earthly rebellions, schemes, and opposition ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord")). In Christ, God's perfect wisdom and unwavering sovereignty are fully revealed, ensuring the triumph of His eternal kingdom over all that stands against Him.

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

1 Samuel 16:13

Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.

2 Samuel 5:1

¶ Then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, Behold, we [are] thy bone and thy flesh.

2 Samuel 5:3

So all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron; and king David made a league with them in Hebron before the LORD: and they anointed David king over Israel.