2 Samuel 17:15

KJV

¶ 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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then said {H559} Hushai {H2365} unto Zadok {H6659} and to Abiathar {H54} the priests {H3548}, Thus and thus did Ahithophel {H302} counsel {H3289} Absalom {H53} and the elders {H2205} of Israel {H3478}; and thus and thus have I counselled {H3289}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then Hushai said to Tzadok and Evyatar the cohanim, "Achitofel gave such-and-such advice to Avshalom and the leaders of Isra'el, but I advised so and so.

Berean Standard Bible

So Hushai told Zadok and Abiathar, the priests, “This is what Ahithophel has advised Absalom and the elders of Israel, and this is what I have advised.

American Standard Version

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This pivotal verse in 2 Samuel 17:15 captures the urgent moment when Hushai the Archite, King David's loyal confidant acting as a double agent within Absalom's court, transmits crucial intelligence to the faithful priests, Zadok and Abiathar. It details the contrasting counsel given to Absalom by both the treacherous Ahithophel and Hushai himself, initiating a critical chain of communication that will ultimately preserve David's life and kingdom from the immediate threat of rebellion and set the stage for Absalom's downfall.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed at a critical juncture in the narrative of Absalom's rebellion against King David, immediately following the dramatic confrontation of counsel in Absalom's war council. David, having been forced to flee Jerusalem, shrewdly dispatched his loyal friend Hushai back to the city with the specific mission to [counter the renowned counsel of Ahithophel](/2_samuel/15-34 "2 Samuel 15:34 - David Sends Hushai Back to Jerusalem"). Ahithophel, David's former trusted advisor, was known for his exceptionally shrewd advice, which was regarded as if one had [inquired of the oracle of God](/2_samuel/16-23 "2 Samuel 16:23 - Ahithophel's Counsel Esteemed as Divine"). In the preceding verses of [2 Samuel 17](/2_samuel/17 "2 Samuel 17 - Ahithophel's and Hushai's Competing Counsel"), Ahithophel had advised Absalom to launch an immediate, swift pursuit of David with a small, elite force, a plan that would almost certainly have resulted in David's capture and death ([2 Samuel 17:1-4](/2_samuel/17-1 "2 Samuel 17:1-4 - Ahithophel's Counsel to Pursue David Immediately")). However, Hushai, through divine intervention, successfully presented an alternative, seemingly more grandiose but ultimately delaying and flawed strategy, which Absalom, in his pride, foolishly chose over Ahithophel's sounder advice ([2 Samuel 17:7-14](/2_samuel/17-7 "2 Samuel 17:7-14 - Hushai's Counter-Counsel to Absalom")). Verse 15 is Hushai's urgent and comprehensive report of both counsels to David's loyal network, setting the stage for David's escape.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is ancient Israel during a period of intense civil unrest and dynastic struggle. Absalom's rebellion was a significant challenge to David's kingship, representing a direct threat to the divinely appointed monarchy and the stability of the nation. In ancient Near Eastern courts, royal advisors like Ahithophel held immense power and influence, their counsel often determining the fate of kingdoms and rulers. The role of priests like Zadok and Abiathar was not merely ritualistic; they often served as trusted confidants, record-keepers, and, as seen here, crucial communicators, especially when loyalty to the king was paramount. The act of intelligence gathering and relaying was vital in ancient warfare and political maneuvering, where timely and accurate information could mean the difference between victory and defeat, or life and death. The urgency of Hushai's message underscores the precariousness of David's situation and the high stakes involved in the struggle for the throne, highlighting the reliance on a network of loyal agents.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several overarching themes within 2 Samuel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, **Divine Providence** is supremely evident; God's unseen hand is at work, actively turning the "wise" counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness and protecting His anointed king, David. This echoes the truth that "There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand" ([Proverbs 19:21](/proverbs/19-21 "Proverbs 19:21 - God's Purpose Will Stand")). Secondly, the theme of **Loyalty and Treachery** is starkly contrasted, highlighting Hushai's unwavering faithfulness to David against Ahithophel's profound betrayal. The priests Zadok and Abiathar, along with their sons, also exemplify selfless loyalty, risking their lives to serve as vital messengers. Thirdly, the narrative emphasizes the critical importance of **Strategic Intelligence**; the timely relay of information about both Ahithophel's immediate, deadly plan and Hushai's delaying tactic provided David with precious time and knowledge crucial for his survival. Finally, the passage underscores **The Power of Counsel**, demonstrating how advice, whether divinely inspired, humanly shrewd, or foolishly chosen, can profoundly impact the course of events, particularly in matters of leadership, war, and destiny, as seen in Absalom's fatal choice in [2 Samuel 17:14](/2_samuel/17-14 "2 Samuel 17:14 - The Lord Defeats Ahithophel's Counsel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Counsel (Hebrew, _yâʻats'_):** From a primitive root meaning "to advise; reflexively, to deliberate or resolve." This word is central to the verse, appearing twice (implied in "counselled"). It highlights the act of giving strategic advice, which in this context is determinative for the fate of David and Absalom. The contrast between Ahithophel's counsel (shrewd but thwarted) and Hushai's counsel (deceptive but divinely purposed) underscores the power and impact of advice, especially in matters of state and war.
* **Elders (Hebrew, _zâqên'_):** Derived from a root meaning "old," this term refers to the aged, ancient men, or senators. In ancient Israel, elders were highly respected community leaders who held significant influence and authority, often serving as advisors and decision-makers in public assemblies and legal matters. Their presence in Absalom's war council indicates a broad base of support for the rebellion and the weight given to the counsel presented before them. Hushai's success in swaying the elders, alongside Absalom, was crucial to the divine plan.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then said Hushai unto Zadok and to Abiathar the priests":** This opening clause immediately establishes the urgency and the communication channel. Hushai, having just left the war council, wastes no time in initiating the critical intelligence transfer. His direct approach to Zadok and Abiathar highlights their established role as loyal and trusted intermediaries for David, chosen because of their priestly status which afforded them a certain level of access and credibility within Jerusalem, making them ideal conduits for sensitive information.
* **"Thus and thus did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel;":** Hushai first relays the details of Ahithophel's advice. The repeated idiomatic phrase "thus and thus" (כָּזֹאת וְכָזֹאת, _ka'zot ve'ka'zot_) signifies that he meticulously detailed Ahithophel's shrewd and deadly plan to pursue David immediately, as well as the compelling arguments Ahithophel used to persuade Absalom and the influential "elders of Israel." This part of the message was crucial for David to understand the imminent and severe threat he faced from the rebellion's most astute strategist.
* **"and thus and thus have I counselled.":** Following the report of Ahithophel's counsel, Hushai then recounts his own counter-counsel. Again, "thus and thus" signifies a full explanation of his elaborate, delaying strategy and precisely how he managed to sway Absalom and the elders away from Ahithophel's sounder, but for David, fatal, advice. This second part of the message was equally vital, as it revealed the precious window of opportunity David had been granted to escape. Hushai's successful deception, divinely orchestrated, is the pivot point of the entire rebellion narrative, turning the tide in David's favor.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning and impact. **Dramatic Irony** is profoundly present, as the reader is fully aware of Hushai's true allegiance and the divine purpose behind his actions, while Absalom and his followers remain blissfully oblivious to their impending doom. This creates palpable tension and highlights the futility of human schemes when they run counter to God's sovereign will. The **Repetition** of the phrase "thus and thus" (כָּזֹאת וְכָזֹאת, _ka'zot ve'ka'zot_) serves as an emphatic device, underscoring the comprehensive and meticulous nature of Hushai's report. This repetition not only assures the recipients of the message's thoroughness but also builds a sense of urgency and gravity, reflecting the high stakes involved. Furthermore, the contrasting figures of Ahithophel and Hushai function as **Foils**, with Ahithophel representing human wisdom turned to treachery and ultimately self-destruction, while Hushai embodies loyal, divinely-empowered counter-intelligence that leads to salvation. The entire scene also serves as powerful **Foreshadowing**, as the successful relay of this critical intelligence directly leads to David's escape and, ultimately, to the tragic downfall of Absalom's rebellion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully illustrates the overarching theological truth of God's sovereignty over human affairs, even amidst chaos, betrayal, and rebellion. It demonstrates that no human counsel, however shrewd or widely accepted, can thwart the divine purpose. God, in His infinite wisdom, can turn the "wisdom of the wise" into foolishness, using unexpected agents and seemingly improbable circumstances to achieve His will. Hushai's successful deception was not merely a clever human maneuver but a direct act of divine intervention, showing that God works through His faithful servants to protect His anointed and advance His kingdom purposes. This narrative offers profound assurance that even when faced with overwhelming opposition and seemingly insurmountable odds, God remains in control, orchestrating events for the good of His people and the fulfillment of His promises. It underscores the importance of trusting in God's plan, even when it unfolds in mysterious or unconventional ways, reminding us that His counsel alone will stand.

* [Proverbs 21:30](/proverbs/21-30 "Proverbs 21:30 - No Wisdom or Counsel Against the Lord")
* [Isaiah 44:25](/isaiah/44-25 "Isaiah 44:25 - God Frustrates the Omens of Liars")
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord Frustrates the Plans of the Nations")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account in 2 Samuel 17:15 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, calling us to cultivate discernment in evaluating counsel, recognizing that not all advice, even from seemingly wise or authoritative sources, aligns with God's will or leads to life. We are reminded that true wisdom comes from God, and His plans often unfold in ways that defy human logic or expectation. This passage also celebrates the invaluable role of loyal friends and trusted allies in times of crisis—those who, like Hushai, Zadok, and Abiathar, are willing to risk their own safety and reputation for a righteous cause. It encourages us to be such faithful friends and to value those in our lives who demonstrate unwavering loyalty to Christ and His kingdom. Ultimately, the narrative reinforces the comforting truth that God is sovereign over all human schemes and machinations. In moments of personal or collective turmoil, when circumstances seem dire and opposition overwhelming, we are encouraged to trust in God's overarching providence, knowing that He can turn the counsel of the wicked into foolishness and orchestrate deliverance through unexpected means. Our call is to remain faithful, pray for wisdom, and act courageously when God opens a door for His purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this account challenge our understanding of "wise" counsel, especially when it contradicts God's purposes?**
* **In what ways can we, like Hushai, be used by God in unexpected roles to advance His kingdom, even in difficult or dangerous circumstances?**
* **How does this narrative encourage us to trust in God's sovereign hand, even when facing seemingly insurmountable opposition or betrayal?**

### FAQ
**Why was Hushai's counsel chosen over Ahithophel's?**

Answer: Absalom, in his pride and desire for a grand, public victory, was swayed by Hushai's more elaborate and flattering plan, which appealed to his ego and seemed to offer a more decisive, overwhelming triumph. Ahithophel's plan, though strategically sound and immediate, was less glamorous. Crucially, Absalom's choice was not merely a matter of human preference; it was a direct result of divine intervention. As the text explicitly states, the Lord "had purposed 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 Defeats Ahithophel's Counsel")). God orchestrated the circumstances to ensure David's deliverance and Absalom's downfall.

**What was the role of Zadok and Abiathar in this intelligence operation?**

Answer: Zadok and Abiathar were faithful priests who remained loyal to King David despite Absalom's widespread rebellion. They served as crucial intermediaries for Hushai's intelligence. When Hushai needed to relay the vital information to David, he entrusted it to these priests. Their sons, Jonathan and Ahimaaz, then acted as swift and secret messengers, risking their lives to carry the message across the Jordan River to David. This highlights the important role of the priesthood in supporting the legitimate king and God's anointed during times of crisis, demonstrating their unwavering commitment and their willingness to act as a vital communication network, as seen in [2 Samuel 15:27-29](/2_samuel/15-27-29 "2 Samuel 15:27-29 - Zadok and Abiathar Remain Loyal to David").

**What is the significance of the phrase "thus and thus"?**

Answer: The Hebrew idiom "thus and thus" (כָּזֹאת וְכָזֹאת, _ka'zot ve'ka'zot_) is used to indicate that a complete and detailed recounting of the preceding events or conversations has been given. It is not a vague placeholder but a linguistic device that assures the recipient (Zadok and Abiathar) that Hushai has fully conveyed both Ahithophel's initial, dangerous counsel and his own successful counter-counsel, without needing to repeat the lengthy speeches from [2 Samuel 17:1-14](/2_samuel/17-1-14 "2 Samuel 17:1-14 - Ahithophel's and Hushai's Counsel"). It underscores the thoroughness, accuracy, and urgency of Hushai's report, which was essential for David to make informed decisions for his survival.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of 2 Samuel 17:15, with its themes of divine providence, wisdom turned to foolishness, and the preservation of God's anointed through loyal agents, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Just as God sovereignly turned Ahithophel's "wise" counsel into folly to save King David, so too did He orchestrate the ultimate plan of salvation through what the world considered "foolishness"—the cross of Christ. The apostle Paul declares that God "made foolish the wisdom of the world" ([1 Corinthians 1:20](/1_corinthians/1-20 "1 Corinthians 1:20 - God Made Foolish the Wisdom of the World")), choosing to save those who believe through the "foolishness of the message preached" ([1 Corinthians 1:21](/1_corinthians/1-21 "1 Corinthians 1:21 - The Foolishness of Preaching")). David, the anointed king, pursued by a rebellious son and preserved by loyal friends and divine intervention, foreshadows Jesus, the true King of Israel, who was betrayed by one of His own ([Matthew 26:47-50](/matthew/26-47-50 "Matthew 26:47-50 - Jesus' Betrayal by Judas")) yet ultimately triumphed over all opposition—sin, death, and the powers of darkness—through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). The "counsel" that leads to death (Ahithophel's) versus the "counsel" that brings life (Hushai's, divinely orchestrated) parallels the Law, which exposes sin and leads to death ([Romans 7:7-11](/romans/7-7-11 "Romans 7:7-11 - The Law and Sin")), versus the Gospel of grace, which offers true life and freedom in Christ ([Romans 8:1-4](/romans/8-1-4 "Romans 8:1-4 - Life in the Spirit")). Jesus Himself is the embodiment of God's perfect wisdom and counsel, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Christ Are Hidden All Treasures of Wisdom")). His life, death, and resurrection represent God's ultimate strategic plan, flawlessly executed to bring about eternal salvation for all who believe.

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 15:35

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.

2 Samuel 15:36

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.