2 Samuel 16:20

Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, Give counsel among you what we shall do.

Then said {H559} Absalom {H53} to Ahithophel {H302}, Give {H3051} counsel {H6098} among you what we shall do {H6213}.

Avshalom said to Achitofel, "Give your advice as to what we should do."

Then Absalom said to Ahithophel, โ€œGive me counsel. What should we do?โ€

Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, Give your counsel what we shall do.

Commentary

Context

This verse marks a critical juncture in the unfolding drama of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. David has fled Jerusalem, leaving the city open for Absalom to enter and establish his control. Absalom's first act of consolidating power is to seek counsel from Ahithophel, who was formerly King David's chief advisor but had treacherously joined Absalom's cause. Absalom is now in Jerusalem and needs strategic advice on how to proceed and solidify his illegitimate claim to the throne. This question sets the stage for Ahithophel's infamous counsel in the verses that follow.

Key Themes

  • Seeking Counsel: Absalom, despite his rebellion, recognizes the need for strategic guidance. His immediate action upon entering Jerusalem is to consult with Ahithophel, whose counsel was highly esteemed, often regarded as if it were the word of God (see 2 Samuel 16:23).
  • Treachery and Betrayal: The presence of Ahithophel by Absalom's side highlights the profound betrayal of David. Ahithophel's counsel is now directed against his former king, underscoring the deep wounds of this family and national conflict.
  • Usurpation of Authority: Absalom's question to Ahithophel signifies his active intent to fully assume the kingship. He is not merely occupying the palace but seeking counsel for how to best establish his rule and prevent David's return.
  • Divine Sovereignty: Although not explicitly stated in this verse, the larger narrative of 2 Samuel reveals that God is sovereign over these events. Even the wisest human counsel, like Ahithophel's, can be ultimately frustrated by God's purposes.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "Give counsel" is ya'ats (ื™ืขืฅ), which means "to advise," "to consult," or "to deliberate." It often carries a connotation of strategic or political guidance, precisely what Absalom needs in this critical moment of his rebellion. Ahithophel was renowned for his skill in providing such shrewd and effective advice.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us of the importance of seeking counsel, but also of discerning its source and nature. While wise counsel is invaluable, counsel that opposes God's will or encourages wrongful actions can lead to devastating consequences. Absalom sought human wisdom for a wicked purpose, ultimately leading to his downfall. It highlights the truth that true wisdom comes from God, and reliance on human schemes, especially those born of rebellion and treachery, is ultimately futile against God's ultimate plan and purpose.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Proverbs 21:30 (2 votes)

    ยถ [There is] no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD.

  • Acts 4:23 (2 votes)

    ยถ And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.

  • Acts 4:28 (2 votes)

    For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.

  • Exodus 1:10 (2 votes)

    Come on, let us deal wisely with them; lest they multiply, and it come to pass, that, when there falleth out any war, they join also unto our enemies, and fight against us, and [so] get them up out of the land.

  • Isaiah 29:15 (2 votes)

    Woe unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the LORD, and their works are in the dark, and they say, Who seeth us? and who knoweth us?

  • Psalms 2:2 (2 votes)

    The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, [saying],

  • Isaiah 8:10 (2 votes)

    Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God [is] with us.