1 Chronicles 27:33

And Ahithophel [was] the king's counsellor: and Hushai the Archite [was] the king's companion:

And Ahithophel {H302} was the king's {H4428} counsellor {H3289}: and Hushai {H2365} the Archite {H757} was the king's {H4428} companion {H7453}:

Achitofel was an adviser to the king. Hushai the Archi was the king's confidant;

Ahithophel was the king’s counselor. Hushai the Archite was the king’s friend.

and Ahithophel was the king’s counsellor: and Hushai the Archite was the king’s friend:

Commentary

1 Chronicles 27:33 provides a concise but significant detail about two prominent figures in King David's administration: Ahithophel and Hushai. This verse is part of a larger list detailing the various officials, military commanders, and tribal leaders who served David, offering insight into the organized structure of his kingdom.

Context

Chapter 27 of 1 Chronicles outlines the comprehensive administrative and military organization of King David's reign. It lists the twelve divisional commanders who served monthly turns, followed by various other key officials responsible for different aspects of the kingdom, from treasury management to agricultural oversight. Verses 32-34 specifically name David's personal advisors and close associates, underscoring the importance of their roles in the functioning of the monarchy. The mention of Ahithophel and Hushai here serves as a historical record of their positions during the peaceful and established period of David's rule.

Key Themes

  • David's Organized Kingdom: The verse, within its chapter, emphasizes the strategic planning and careful delegation that characterized David's successful reign. It highlights the importance of a well-structured government for effective leadership.
  • The Role of Counselors and Companions: It distinguishes between a "counsellor" (Ahithophel), who provided official advice and strategy, and a "companion" (Hushai), suggesting a more personal, intimate relationship with the king. Both roles were vital for David's governance and personal well-being.
  • Foreshadowing of Future Events: For readers familiar with David's life, the names of Ahithophel and Hushai immediately evoke the dramatic events of Absalom's rebellion. While 1 Chronicles, focusing on the positive aspects of David's reign, does not detail the rebellion, this verse quietly sets the stage for understanding the crucial roles these men would later play in a time of crisis. Ahithophel, famed for his shrewd advice, eventually betrayed David by joining Absalom, while Hushai remained fiercely loyal, acting as a double agent to thwart Ahithophel's counsel and save David.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew word for "counsellor" (yo'ets) indicates someone who gives advice, particularly in matters of state or strategy. Ahithophel was renowned for his wisdom, such that his counsel was considered "as if one had inquired at the oracle of God" (2 Samuel 16:23).
  • The term for "companion" (re'eh or mere'a in various forms) denotes a friend, an intimate associate, or someone with whom one shares personal closeness. Hushai was not merely an official but a trusted friend and confidant to David, highlighting the personal support network essential even for a king.

Practical Application

This verse, though brief, offers timeless insights into leadership and relationships:

  • The Importance of Good Counsel: Leaders, whether in government, business, or family, thrive with wise and honest advisors. The quality of counsel received significantly impacts decisions and outcomes.
  • Discerning Loyalty: The contrasting fates of Ahithophel and Hushai underscore the critical difference between competence and character. While Ahithophel was supremely capable, his loyalty proved conditional. True companions, like Hushai, stand by you even in adversity.
  • God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs: The broader narrative involving these two men demonstrates how God can overrule human plans, even the most cunning ones, to accomplish His purposes. David prayed that God would turn Ahithophel's counsel into foolishness (2 Samuel 15:31), and He did, through Hushai.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 15:37 (5 votes)

    So Hushai David's friend came into the city, and Absalom came into Jerusalem.

  • 2 Samuel 15:12 (5 votes)

    And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counsellor, from his city, [even] from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.

  • 2 Samuel 15:32 (3 votes)

    And it came to pass, that [when] David was come to the top [of the mount], where he worshipped God, behold, Hushai the Archite came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his head:

  • 2 Samuel 16:16 (2 votes)

    And it came to pass, when Hushai the Archite, David's friend, was come unto Absalom, that Hushai said unto Absalom, God save the king, God save the king.

  • 2 Samuel 16:17 (2 votes)

    And Absalom said to Hushai, [Is] this thy kindness to thy friend? why wentest thou not with thy friend?

  • Psalms 55:13 (2 votes)

    But [it was] thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance.

  • 2 Samuel 17:23 (2 votes)

    And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled [his] ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the sepulchre of his father.