2 Samuel 17:4

KJV

And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the saying {H1697} pleased {H3474} Absalom {H53} well {H5869}, and all the elders {H2205} of Israel {H3478}.

Complete Jewish Bible

What he said pleased Avshalom and all the leaders of Isra'el.

Berean Standard Bible

This proposal seemed good to Absalom and all the elders of Israel.

American Standard Version

And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse marks a pivotal moment in Absalom's rebellion against King David, recording the immediate and overwhelming approval by Absalom and the collective leadership of Israel for Ahithophel's counsel. This counsel proposed a swift and decisive military strike against David while he was vulnerable, a plan deemed strategically brilliant and perfectly suited to solidify Absalom's usurped throne. The unanimous acceptance of this seemingly infallible human strategy sets the stage for the dramatic divine intervention that would ultimately frustrate it, underscoring God's sovereign control over human affairs.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** [2 Samuel 17:4](/2_samuel/17-4 "2 Samuel 17:4 - Absalom and the Elders Approve Ahithophel's Counsel") is situated at a critical juncture in the narrative of Absalom's coup against his father, David. David has been forced to flee Jerusalem, leaving the capital open for Absalom to seize. The preceding verses, [2 Samuel 17:1-3](/2_samuel/17-1-3 "2 Samuel 17:1-3 - Ahithophel's Counsel to Absalom"), detail Ahithophel's strategic advice: to immediately pursue David with 12,000 chosen men, strike him while he is weary and vulnerable, and thereby scatter his followers, bringing the entire nation back to Absalom. Ahithophel, formerly David's trusted advisor, was renowned for his wisdom, his counsel being "as if a man had inquired at [the oracle of God](/2_samuel/16-23 "2 Samuel 16:23 - Ahithophel's Counsel Likened to God's Oracle")" ([2 Samuel 16:23](/2_samuel/16-23 "2 Samuel 16:23 - Ahithophel's Counsel")). The immediate and enthusiastic acceptance of this counsel in verse 4 builds immense dramatic tension, as it appears David's fate is sealed. This verse directly precedes Hushai's counter-counsel, which God divinely orchestrates to save David, setting up a profound contrast.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The political landscape of ancient Israel was often volatile, with succession disputes and rebellions being common, though Absalom's rebellion was particularly grievous due to its parricidal nature and the deep betrayal involved. In this period, counsel from trusted advisors was paramount for kings, often shaping military strategy and national policy. Ahithophel's reputation as a sagacious counselor meant his advice carried immense weight, not just with Absalom but also with the "elders of Israel" who represented the tribal and national consensus. The elders played a crucial role in legitimizing a king's rule and confirming significant decisions. Their approval of Ahithophel's plan signified a broad national endorsement of Absalom's new regime and his proposed course of action against David. The pursuit of a fleeing enemy was a standard military tactic, aiming to prevent regrouping and consolidate victory, making Ahithophel's strategy both culturally understandable and militarily sound.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Samuel 17:4](/2_samuel/17-4 "2 Samuel 17:4 - Absalom and the Elders Approve Ahithophel's Counsel") powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of [2 Samuel](/2_samuel/1 "2 Samuel - The Reign of King David"). Firstly, it highlights the **power and influence of counsel**, demonstrating how a single piece of advice, especially from a respected figure like Ahithophel, could sway an entire nation's leadership. Secondly, it sets up the profound theme of **human strategy versus divine sovereignty**. Ahithophel's plan was humanly perfect, militarily sound, and widely accepted, yet God had determined to thwart it, as seen in [2 Samuel 17:14](/2_samuel/17-14 "2 Samuel 17:14 - God Frustrates Ahithophel's Counsel"). This illustrates that even the most brilliant human schemes are subject to God's ultimate will, emphasizing that "the Lord frustrates the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples" ([Psalm 33:10](/psalm/33-10 "Psalm 33:10 - The Lord Frustrates Nations' Plans")). Finally, the verse is integral to the theme of **God's covenant faithfulness to David**. Despite David's personal failings and the dire threat posed by Absalom's rebellion, God actively intervenes to protect His anointed king and uphold the promises made to him, as foreshadowed in the [Davidic Covenant](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant") in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Saying (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** (H1697) From דָבַר; a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause. This term refers to Ahithophel's counsel, encompassing not just the words spoken but the entire strategic proposal and its underlying rationale. Its acceptance signifies the full endorsement of the *substance* of the plan, recognizing its weight and implications.
* **Pleased (Hebrew, _yâshar'_):** (H3474) A primitive root; to be straight or even; figuratively, to be (causatively, to make) right, pleasant, prosperous. This verb indicates that Ahithophel's counsel was not merely accepted, but was perceived as "right," "good," and "fitting." It conveys a strong sense of approval, satisfaction, and a belief in the plan's inherent correctness and suitability for their objectives.
* **Well (Hebrew, _ʻayin'_):** (H5869) Probably a primitive word; an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape). When used with verbs like "pleased" (yâshar), it forms an idiom meaning "pleased in their eyes" or "seemed good to them." This emphasizes that the counsel was agreeable *from their perspective*, appearing excellent and strategically sound in their judgment, reinforcing the strong, subjective approval from Absalom and the elders.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the saying pleased Absalom well":** This clause highlights Absalom's personal and enthusiastic endorsement of Ahithophel's counsel. As the new, albeit illegitimate, king, his approval was the primary seal of acceptance. The phrase "pleased well" (a Hebrew idiom, literally "was straight in his eyes") conveys a strong, unreserved satisfaction, indicating that the plan aligned perfectly with his aggressive, decisive approach to securing his reign and eliminating the threat posed by David.
* **"and all the elders of Israel":** This second clause expands the scope of approval beyond Absalom to include the collective leadership of the nation. The phrase "all the elders" underscores the unanimity of the decision, suggesting that Ahithophel's counsel was so compelling and strategically sound that it garnered widespread support among those representing the people. This collective endorsement lent significant political and national weight to the plan, making its execution seem inevitable and divinely favored from a human perspective.

#### Literary Devices
[2 Samuel 17:4](/2_samuel/17-4 "2 Samuel 17:4 - Absalom and the Elders Approve Ahithophel's Counsel") employs several powerful literary devices that heighten the drama and theological significance of the narrative. **Foreshadowing** is evident, as the immediate and unanimous acceptance of Ahithophel's "perfect" plan creates a palpable sense of impending doom for David, thus foreshadowing the dramatic reversal that is about to occur through Hushai's intervention. There is also strong **dramatic irony**, as the audience is aware of God's overarching plan to frustrate Ahithophel's counsel (established in David's prayer in [2 Samuel 15:31](/2_samuel/15-31 "2 Samuel 15:31 - David's Prayer Against Ahithophel")), while Absalom and the elders remain oblivious, believing their chosen path to be infallible. The verse also sets up a stark **contrast** between the humanly wise counsel of Ahithophel and the divinely inspired, ultimately successful counter-counsel of Hushai. This contrast highlights the theme of human folly versus divine wisdom. Finally, the swift and complete approval generates **suspense**, heightening the tension and making the subsequent divine intervention all the more impactful.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, depicting the overwhelming human consensus around a plan intended to destroy God's anointed king, serves as a powerful testament to God's ultimate sovereignty over human affairs. Even when the most brilliant human minds conspire and agree on a course of action, God's purposes cannot be thwarted. The "good" counsel of Ahithophel, perceived as infallible by all human actors, was destined to fail because it stood against God's will for David and his kingdom. This narrative reminds us that while humans make plans, the Lord directs their steps, often in ways that defy human logic or expectation. It underscores the biblical truth that God's counsel will stand, regardless of the strength or popularity of opposing human schemes.

* [Proverbs 19:21](/proverbs/19-21 "Proverbs 19:21 - The Lord's Purpose Prevails")
* [Isaiah 46:10](/isaiah/46-10 "Isaiah 46:10 - God's Unchanging Purpose")
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalm/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord's Counsel Stands")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in [2 Samuel 17:4](/2_samuel/17-4 "2 Samuel 17:4 - Absalom and the Elders Approve Ahithophel's Counsel") offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It challenges us to look beyond immediate appearances and popular consensus, recognizing that what seems "good" or "wise" from a human perspective may not align with God's perfect will. In our own lives, we often face decisions where the most logical, efficient, or widely accepted path appears to be the best. This verse reminds us that true wisdom comes from discerning God's voice and submitting to His sovereign plan, even when it seems counter-intuitive, less efficient, or even foolish in the eyes of the world. It encourages a posture of humility and dependence, trusting that God can and will orchestrate circumstances to fulfill His purposes, even by frustrating the seemingly unassailable plans of others. When we face overwhelming odds or seemingly insurmountable obstacles, this narrative offers profound comfort: God remains on the throne, capable of turning the wisest human counsel into foolishness for His glory and our ultimate good, ensuring that His will, not ours, is ultimately accomplished.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I discern between humanly wise counsel and divinely guided wisdom in my own life, especially when they seem to conflict?**
* **In what areas of my life am I tempted to rely solely on human logic, popular opinion, or my own understanding, rather than seeking God's specific guidance and trusting His sovereignty?**
* **How does the sovereignty of God, as powerfully demonstrated in this passage, bring me comfort or challenge my understanding of control and my own plans?**
* **What "good" plans or perceived "best" solutions in my life might God be seeking to frustrate or redirect for a greater, unseen purpose that aligns with His kingdom?**

### FAQ
**Why was Ahithophel's counsel considered so wise, and what made it appealing to Absalom and the elders?**

Answer: Ahithophel's counsel was considered extraordinarily wise because he was known for his strategic acumen, so much so that his advice was likened to inquiring of [God's oracle](/2_samuel/16-23 "2 Samuel 16:23 - Ahithophel's Counsel Likened to God's Oracle") ([2 Samuel 16:23](/2_samuel/16-23 "2 Samuel 16:23 - Ahithophel's Counsel")). His plan was militarily brilliant and appealed to Absalom and the elders for several reasons:
* **Decisiveness:** It advocated for an immediate, swift strike against David, preventing him from regrouping and consolidating his forces. This promised a quick end to the rebellion, minimizing prolonged conflict and potential counter-attacks.
* **Strategic Advantage:** David was weary, vulnerable, and fleeing with a relatively small, disorganized group. Ahithophel's plan aimed to capitalize on this weakness, striking when David was at his lowest point and least prepared.
* **Psychological Warfare:** The plan emphasized scattering David's followers and isolating him. This would likely demoralize his remaining loyalists and encourage the general populace to rally behind Absalom, solidifying his new regime.
* **Consolidation of Power:** By eliminating David quickly and decisively, Absalom could solidify his claim to the throne without a protracted civil war, bringing "all the people back to you" ([2 Samuel 17:3](/2_samuel/17-3 "2 Samuel 17:3 - Ahithophel's Counsel to Absalom")). Its perceived efficiency, effectiveness, and comprehensive nature made it overwhelmingly appealing and seemingly foolproof.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Ahithophel's counsel and its divine frustration in [2 Samuel 17:4](/2_samuel/17-4 "2 Samuel 17:4 - Absalom and the Elders Approve Ahithophel's Counsel") finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the ultimate plan of God for salvation through Jesus Christ. Just as Ahithophel's "wise" counsel was intended to destroy David, God's anointed king, the "wise" counsel of the religious and political leaders of Jesus' day sought to eliminate Him. The Sanhedrin, Pilate, and Herod, in their human wisdom and political maneuvering, conspired to crucify Jesus. From a human perspective, this was a decisive victory for those opposed to Christ, a successful removal of a perceived threat. Yet, this very act, seemingly a triumph of human counsel and rebellion against God's Anointed, was in fact the predetermined plan of God. As [Acts 2:23](/acts/2-23 "Acts 2:23 - God's Predetermined Plan") declares, Jesus was "delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God." The "foolishness" of the cross, where the Son of God was seemingly defeated, became the ultimate display of God's wisdom and power, securing salvation for humanity and confounding the wisdom of the world ([1 Corinthians 1:18-25](/1_corinthians/1-18-25 "1 Corinthians 1:18-25 - The Wisdom of God and the Cross")). Just as God preserved David to fulfill His covenant, He raised Jesus from the dead, demonstrating that no human counsel, no matter how shrewd or unanimously approved, can thwart the sovereign purposes of the true King, whose kingdom is eternal and whose reign is unshakeable ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Christ")).

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

Esther 5:14

Then said Zeresh his wife and all his friends unto him, Let a gallows be made of fifty cubits high, and to morrow speak thou unto the king that Mordecai may be hanged thereon: then go thou in merrily with the king unto the banquet. And the thing pleased Haman; and he caused the gallows to be made.

Romans 1:32

Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

2 Chronicles 30:4

And the thing pleased the king and all the congregation.

Esther 1:21

And the saying pleased the king and the princes; and the king did according to the word of Memucan:

1 Samuel 23:21

And Saul said, Blessed [be] ye of the LORD; for ye have compassion on me.

1 Samuel 18:20

And Michal Saul's daughter loved David: and they told Saul, and the thing pleased him.

1 Samuel 18:21

And Saul said, I will give him her, that she may be a snare to him, and that the hand of the Philistines may be against him. Wherefore Saul said to David, Thou shalt this day be my son in law in [the one of] the twain.