2 Samuel 16:21

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Ahithophel {H302} said {H559} unto Absalom {H53}, Go in {H935} unto thy father's {H1} concubines {H6370}, which he hath left {H3240} to keep {H8104} the house {H1004}; and all Israel {H3478} shall hear {H8085} that thou art abhorred {H887} of thy father {H1}: then shall the hands {H3027} of all that are with thee be strong {H2388}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Achitofel answered Avshalom, "Go in, and sleep with your father's concubines, the ones he left to take care of the palace. All Isra'el will hear that your father utterly despises you, and this will strengthen the position of all those who are on your side."

Berean Standard Bible

Ahithophel replied, “Sleep with your father’s concubines, whom he has left to keep the palace. When all Israel hears that you have become a stench to your father, then the hands of all who are with you will be strengthened.”

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Samuel 16:21 records the chilling and strategically ruthless counsel given by Ahithophel to Absalom, urging him to publicly defile King David's concubines. This act was designed to irrevocably sever any possibility of reconciliation between Absalom and his father, thereby solidifying Absalom's claim to the throne in the eyes of all Israel and strengthening the resolve of his followers, who would then understand that their fate was inextricably linked with Absalom's success.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture in the narrative of Absalom's rebellion against King David. David has been forced to flee Jerusalem, leaving behind ten of his concubines to "keep the house," a detail mentioned in [2 Samuel 15:16](/2_samuel/15-16 "2 Samuel 15:16 - David Leaves Concubines"). Absalom, having entered the city unopposed, immediately seeks counsel from Ahithophel, a former trusted advisor to David who had defected to Absalom's side, as highlighted by David's prayer concerning Ahithophel's counsel in [2 Samuel 15:31](/2_samuel/15-31 "2 Samuel 15:31 - David's Prayer Regarding Ahithophel"). Ahithophel's advice was highly esteemed, described in [2 Samuel 16:23](/2_samuel/16-23 "2 Samuel 16:23 - The Esteem for Ahithophel's Counsel") as being "as if a man had inquired at the oracle of God." This particular counsel, however, stands in stark contrast to the later, divinely orchestrated counter-counsel of Hushai, which ultimately led to Ahithophel's downfall and Absalom's defeat.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the possession of a king's harem was a clear and universally understood symbol of his royal authority and a claim to his throne. To "go in unto" a king's concubines was not merely a sexual act but a public declaration of usurpation and a profound humiliation of the former monarch. Such an act served as an irreversible political statement, demonstrating that the new claimant had fully taken over the previous king's power and legacy. The public nature of this act, as implied by "all Israel shall hear," was crucial, transforming a private transgression into a widely known political maneuver designed to solidify Absalom's legitimacy and make any future reconciliation with David impossible, thereby committing Absalom's followers fully to the rebellion.
* **Key Themes:** Ahithophel's counsel powerfully contributes to several major themes within the book of 2 Samuel and the broader Deuteronomistic History. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Usurpation of Authority**, where Absalom's actions are a direct attempt to seize the throne by culturally recognized means. Secondly, it highlights the **Irreversibility of Rebellion**, as Ahithophel's advice is specifically designed to burn bridges and ensure there is no turning back for Absalom or his followers, thereby strengthening their resolve, as indicated by the phrase "then shall the hands of all that are with thee be strong." Thirdly, the act itself exemplifies **Moral Depravity and Betrayal**, showcasing the corrupting influence of unchecked ambition and the profound violation of familial and societal norms. Finally, and most significantly, this heinous act serves as a direct and chilling **Fulfillment of Prophecy**, specifically the judgment pronounced by Nathan the prophet against David in [2 Samuel 12:11](/2_samuel/12-11 "2 Samuel 12:11 - Nathan's Prophecy of Judgment Against David"), where God declared, "Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun."

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Concubines (Hebrew, _pîlegeš'_):** These were secondary wives, often acquired for political alliances or as a sign of wealth and status. While not enjoying the same legal standing as a primary wife, they were still considered part of the king's household and their possession was inextricably linked to his royal power and succession. David leaving them "to keep the house" was a sign of his expectation to return, but Ahithophel's counsel perverted this into an opportunity for Absalom to symbolically seize David's dominion.
* **Abhorred (Hebrew, _tāʿav'_):** This verb conveys a deep, visceral disgust, loathing, or abomination. It signifies an utter rejection and repulsion, implying that David would find Absalom utterly detestable, making any thought of reconciliation or forgiveness impossible. This was crucial for Ahithophel's strategy, as it would eliminate any lingering hope among Absalom's followers that a peaceful resolution might occur, thus binding them more firmly to Absalom's cause.
* **Strong (Hebrew, _ḥāzaq'_):** This word denotes being firm, courageous, or resolute. In this context, it refers to the psychological effect of Absalom's act on his followers. Knowing that Absalom had committed an unforgivable act against his father, they would understand that there was no turning back, no possibility of clemency from David. This realization would strengthen their resolve, embolden their hands for battle, and commit them fully to fighting for Absalom's reign until the very end.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto thy father's concubines, which he hath left to keep the house;":** This clause reveals the specific, shocking command from Ahithophel. The instruction to "go in unto" the concubines is a euphemism for sexual intercourse, but its significance extends far beyond the physical act. It is a calculated political move, aiming to publicly appropriate David's royal property and symbolically seize his throne. The detail that David "hath left to keep the house" underscores the deliberate violation of David's trust and the perversion of his intentions.
* **"and all Israel shall hear that thou art abhorred of thy father:":** This phrase highlights the intended public impact of the act. Ahithophel understands the power of public perception and the irreversible nature of such a transgression. The goal is to ensure that the news of Absalom's defilement of David's concubines spreads throughout the kingdom, making it clear that David would never forgive or reconcile with Absalom. This public shaming and declaration of an irreparable breach were essential to Ahithophel's strategy.
* **"then shall the hands of all that [are] with thee be strong.":** This final clause articulates the strategic outcome of Ahithophel's counsel. By making reconciliation impossible, Absalom's followers would realize that their only path forward was through victory. Their commitment to Absalom's cause would be solidified, knowing that their own lives and futures were now entirely bound to the success of the rebellion. This psychological effect was crucial for maintaining loyalty and ensuring fierce determination in the impending conflict.

#### Literary Devices
The passage makes effective use of several literary devices. **Symbolism** is paramount, as the act of taking the king's concubines is a powerful symbol of usurping his authority and claiming his throne. This act is not merely a private transgression but a public declaration of Absalom's intent to replace David entirely. There is a profound **Irony** in Ahithophel's counsel; once David's trusted advisor whose wisdom was "as if a man had inquired at the oracle of God," he now uses his sagacity to devise the most damaging and morally reprehensible strategy against his former king. The phrase "all Israel shall hear" employs a form of **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the widespread and undeniable nature of the public declaration, ensuring the message of an irreversible break reaches every corner of the kingdom. Furthermore, the entire episode functions as **Fulfillment of Prophecy**, directly enacting the judgment pronounced by Nathan against David for his sin with Bathsheba, adding a layer of divine sovereignty to the human drama.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse starkly illustrates the devastating consequences of sin and rebellion, particularly within the context of God's sovereign justice. Ahithophel's counsel, while strategically brilliant from a human perspective, is morally depraved and underscores the corrupting nature of unchecked ambition. It reveals how human wickedness can be instrumentalized, even unknowingly, in the unfolding of divine judgment. The fulfillment of Nathan's prophecy here is a powerful reminder that God's word is true and His justice will be enacted, even if through the painful and sinful actions of others. This event highlights the principle that sin has long-lasting repercussions, affecting not only the individual but also their family and nation.

* [2 Samuel 12:11](/2_samuel/12-11 "Nathan's Prophecy of Judgment")
* [Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Sowing and Reaping")
* [Proverbs 14:12](/proverbs/14-12 "The Way That Seems Right")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The tragic events of 2 Samuel 16:21 offer profound lessons for contemporary believers. It serves as a sobering reminder of the destructive power of ambition when it is untethered from moral boundaries and godly counsel. Ahithophel's advice, though strategically sound for a usurper, was morally bankrupt, demonstrating how "wisdom" divorced from righteousness leads to ruin. We are called to discern counsel carefully, recognizing that not all advice that appears shrewd is truly wise or beneficial in the long run. Furthermore, the passage underscores the insidious nature of sin, which often escalates from initial transgressions to increasingly depraved acts, creating irreversible damage and drawing others into its destructive wake. It challenges us to consider the long-term consequences of our actions, especially those that involve betrayal, dishonor, or the pursuit of power at any cost. Ultimately, it calls us to humility, integrity, and a reliance on God's wisdom rather than human cunning.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does unchecked ambition, as seen in Absalom, manifest in our own lives or in society today?**
* **What are the dangers of seeking or following counsel that is strategically sound but morally compromised?**
* **How does this narrative inform our understanding of the ripple effects of sin, not only on individuals but on families and communities?**
* **In what ways can we ensure our actions and aspirations are aligned with God's will and not driven by selfish desires?**

### FAQ

**What was the primary purpose of Ahithophel's advice to Absalom?**

Answer: Ahithophel's primary purpose was to make Absalom's rebellion irreversible and to solidify the loyalty of his followers. By publicly defiling David's concubines, Absalom would commit an act so egregious and offensive that reconciliation with his father would become utterly impossible. This would signal to all of Israel, and especially to Absalom's supporters, that there was no turning back, thereby strengthening their resolve and ensuring their full commitment to the success of the rebellion against King David. It was a shrewd political maneuver designed to eliminate any wavering loyalty and force a decisive conflict.

**Why was taking the king's concubines such a significant act in ancient Israel?**

Answer: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a king's harem was a direct symbol of his power, authority, and succession. To "go in unto" or take possession of a king's concubines or wives was a universally recognized act of usurpation, a public declaration that the new individual had claimed the throne and fully taken over the previous king's dominion. It was a profound act of humiliation against the former monarch and a clear statement of a new reign. This act was not merely a sexual transgression but a deeply symbolic political maneuver that asserted kingship and severed any ties to the previous ruler.

**How does this event relate to Nathan's prophecy against David?**

Answer: This specific act by Absalom is a direct and chilling fulfillment of the prophecy given by Nathan the prophet to King David in [2 Samuel 12:11](/2_samuel/12-11 "Nathan's Prophecy of Judgment"). As a consequence for David's sin with Bathsheba and Uriah, God declared, "Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun." Absalom's public defilement of David's concubines, orchestrated by Ahithophel, precisely enacts this divine judgment, demonstrating God's sovereignty even amidst human wickedness and the certainty of His word.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The dark counsel of Ahithophel and Absalom's subsequent act stand in stark contrast to the person and work of Jesus Christ. Absalom sought to establish his kingdom through usurpation, betrayal, and a heinous act of public humiliation against his own father, solidifying his power by making reconciliation impossible and binding his followers through fear and irreversible commitment. In profound opposition, Jesus Christ, though truly King and heir of David's throne, did not grasp for power or seek to establish His kingdom through force or defilement. Rather, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, and humbled Himself even to the point of death on a cross, as described in [Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6 "Christ's Humility"). While Absalom's act was designed to make his father abhor him, Christ's perfect obedience and sacrificial love reconcile us to God, making us beloved children rather than abhorred enemies, as seen in [Romans 5:10](/romans/5-10 "Reconciliation Through Christ"). The strength of Absalom's followers was rooted in the impossibility of retreat; the strength of Christ's followers comes from the certainty of His victory over sin and death, and the promise of eternal life, as proclaimed in [John 11:25-26](/john/11-25 "Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life"). Ultimately, where Absalom brought division, defilement, and death, Christ brings reconciliation, purity, and life, fulfilling the true kingship not through human cunning and violence, but through divine love and redemptive sacrifice.

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 20:3

And David came to his house at Jerusalem; and the king took the ten women [his] concubines, whom he had left to keep the house, and put them in ward, and fed them, but went not in unto them. So they were shut up unto the day of their death, living in widowhood.

2 Samuel 15:16

And the king went forth, and all his household after him. And the king left ten women, [which were] concubines, to keep the house.

Leviticus 18:8

The nakedness of thy father's wife shalt thou not uncover: it [is] thy father's nakedness.

Zechariah 8:13

And it shall come to pass, [that] as ye were a curse among the heathen, O house of Judah, and house of Israel; so will I save you, and ye shall be a blessing: fear not, [but] let your hands be strong.

2 Samuel 2:7

Therefore now let your hands be strengthened, and be ye valiant: for your master Saul is dead, and also the house of Judah have anointed me king over them.

1 Samuel 27:12

And Achish believed David, saying, He hath made his people Israel utterly to abhor him; therefore he shall be my servant for ever.

Genesis 38:16

And he turned unto her by the way, and said, Go to, I pray thee, let me come in unto thee; (for he knew not that she [was] his daughter in law.) And she said, What wilt thou give me, that thou mayest come in unto me?