### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Chûwshay**, represented by `{{H2365}}`, means **hasty**. It appears **14 times** across **13 unique verses** and refers to a specific Israelite, Hushai the Archite. He is a significant figure in the narrative of King David's reign, acting as a loyal friend and a shrewd counselor during Absalom's rebellion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2365}}` is exclusively used for Hushai the Archite, who is identified as "David's friend" `{{H7463}}` ([[2 Samuel 15:37]], [[2 Samuel 16:16]]). He first appears meeting the fleeing King David with his coat rent and earth upon his head, a sign of mourning and loyalty [[2 Samuel 15:32]]. At David's instruction, Hushai enters Jerusalem to feign allegiance to Absalom and counter the counsel of Ahithophel [[2 Samuel 15:37]]. When Absalom consults both men, he and the men of Israel declare that the counsel of Hushai is better than the counsel of Ahithophel [[2 Samuel 17:14]]. This acceptance was critical, as the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel in order to bring evil upon Absalom [[2 Samuel 17:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are central to understanding Hushai's role:
* `{{H6098}}` **ʻêtsâh** (advice; by implication, plan): This word is at the heart of the conflict. The narrative pits the **counsel** of Hushai against the **counsel** of Ahithophel [[2 Samuel 17:7]]. The decision between these two counsels determines the fate of Absalom's rebellion [[2 Samuel 17:14]].
* `{{H7453}}` **rêaʻ** (an associate (more or less close); friend): This term defines Hushai's relationship with David. A variant, `{{H7463}}` **rêʻeh**, is used to identify him as "David's **friend**" ([[2 Samuel 16:16]], [[2 Samuel 15:37]]). Absalom uses `{{H7453}}` when questioning Hushai's loyalty to his **friend** [[2 Samuel 16:17]], and in Chronicles, Hushai is listed as the king's **companion** [[1 Chronicles 27:33]].
* `{{H6565}}` **pârar** (to break up (usually figuratively), i.e. to violate, frustrate): This verb reveals the divine action behind the scenes. The LORD had appointed to **defeat** the good counsel of Ahithophel, making Hushai's seemingly riskier plan appear more appealing [[2 Samuel 17:14]].
### Theological Significance
The story of `{{H2365}}` carries significant theological weight, illustrating key principles through narrative action.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The central theme is that God works through human actions to accomplish His purposes. While Hushai devises a clever plan, the text explicitly states that the LORD had "appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel" in order to bring judgment on Absalom [[2 Samuel 17:14]]. Hushai's success was ultimately an outworking of God's sovereign will.
* **Loyalty and Friendship:** Hushai embodies the ideal of a loyal friend (`rêaʻ` `{{H7453}}`, `rêʻeh` `{{H7463}}`). He risks his life by entering the camp of the usurper Absalom to protect his true king, David [[2 Samuel 15:37]]. His actions provide a powerful example of faithfulness in the face of political turmoil and personal danger.
* **The Power of Words:** The conflict is a battle of counsel (`ʻêtsâh` `{{H6098}}`). Hushai's persuasive speech, described as "better" (`ṭôwb` `{{H2896}}`), turns the tide of the rebellion [[2 Samuel 17:14]]. His story demonstrates that wisely chosen words, guided by divine purpose, can be more effective than military might.
### Summary
In summary, **Chûwshay** `{{H2365}}` refers to a pivotal individual whose actions are a case study in loyalty and divine providence. Though his name means "hasty," his counsel was carefully crafted to save David's kingdom. As David's friend and companion, Hushai placed himself in mortal danger to become the instrument through which God would frustrate the plans of his enemies. His story is a clear illustration of how God can use the counsel of one faithful person to direct the course of history.
TRV