2 SAMUEL 17

HUSHAI INFORMS DAVID OF ABSALOM’S PLANS TO ATTACK

Ahithophel orders Absalom to gather 12,000 men and attack David, but Absalom wants Hushai’s opinion too. Hushai tells Absalom to create an even bigger army, gathering men from all of Israel. Hushai did this to give himself time to warn David of the attack.

Absalom listens to Hushai’s advice over Ahithophel’s advice. Ahithophel hangs himself, possibly to avoid death upon David’s eventual return.

Absalom crosses the Jordan with his men, ready for a battle with David. Absalom appoints Amasa over the army instead of Joab, who David had previously appointed. Hushai sends messengers to David in Mahanaim to warn him of Absalom’s plans. Later, David is provided with food and supplies by Shobi, Machir, and Barzillai.