2 samuel 15:12 - Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he was offering the sacrifices. The conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.
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What does "2 samuel 15:12" mean?
This verse from 2 Samuel 15:12 is a crucial turning point in the story of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. Let's break it down:
"Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, from his city, even from Giloh..." This highlights Absalom actively seeking out Ahithophel. Ahithophel was a highly respected and trusted advisor to David. His counsel was considered wise and almost infallible (2 Samuel 16:23). The fact that Absalom seeks him out shows the seriousness and deliberate nature of his rebellion. He needs the legitimacy and strategic mind that Ahithophel brings. Giloh was Ahithophel's hometown.
"...while he was offering the sacrifices." This detail is important because sacrifices were often offered to seek divine favor or to inaugurate important events. The fact that Absalom is offering sacrifices while summoning Ahithophel suggests he's trying to give his rebellion a veneer of religious legitimacy and perhaps seeking divine blessing (even though it's a betrayal of his father, the divinely appointed king). It also gives a public and official element to his actions.
"The conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom." This is the key consequence of Absalom's actions. The conspiracy, which is his plot to overthrow David, is gaining momentum. The phrase "the people increased continually with Absalom" indicates that more and more people are joining his cause. This is likely due to Absalom's charisma, his promises, and possibly disillusionment with David's rule. The growing support makes Absalom's rebellion a serious threat to David's kingship.
In essence, this verse shows:
The calculated nature of Absalom's rebellion: He's not just acting on a whim; he's strategizing and seeking out key allies like Ahithophel.
The growing support for Absalom: His charisma and promises are winning over the people, making his rebellion a legitimate threat.
The treachery involved: Ahithophel's betrayal of David, his former employer and confidant, is a major blow and highlights the depth of Absalom's conspiracy.
The religious spin Absalom is trying to put on his actions: Offering sacrifices suggests he's attempting to legitimize his rebellion in the eyes of the people and perhaps claim divine approval.
This verse sets the stage for the dramatic conflict between Absalom and David, a conflict fueled by ambition, betrayal, and the struggle for the throne. The inclusion of Ahithophel's name foreshadows a significant and ultimately tragic turn of events, as Ahithophel's advice will play a crucial role in the unfolding drama.
2 samuel 15:12 - Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he was offering the sacrifices. The conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.
What does "2 samuel 15:12" mean?
This verse from 2 Samuel 15:12 is a crucial turning point in the story of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. Let's break it down:
"Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, from his city, even from Giloh..." This highlights Absalom actively seeking out Ahithophel. Ahithophel was a highly respected and trusted advisor to David. His counsel was considered wise and almost infallible (2 Samuel 16:23). The fact that Absalom seeks him out shows the seriousness and deliberate nature of his rebellion. He needs the legitimacy and strategic mind that Ahithophel brings. Giloh was Ahithophel's hometown.
"...while he was offering the sacrifices." This detail is important because sacrifices were often offered to seek divine favor or to inaugurate important events. The fact that Absalom is offering sacrifices while summoning Ahithophel suggests he's trying to give his rebellion a veneer of religious legitimacy and perhaps seeking divine blessing (even though it's a betrayal of his father, the divinely appointed king). It also gives a public and official element to his actions.
"The conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom." This is the key consequence of Absalom's actions. The conspiracy, which is his plot to overthrow David, is gaining momentum. The phrase "the people increased continually with Absalom" indicates that more and more people are joining his cause. This is likely due to Absalom's charisma, his promises, and possibly disillusionment with David's rule. The growing support makes Absalom's rebellion a serious threat to David's kingship.
In essence, this verse shows:
The calculated nature of Absalom's rebellion: He's not just acting on a whim; he's strategizing and seeking out key allies like Ahithophel.
The growing support for Absalom: His charisma and promises are winning over the people, making his rebellion a legitimate threat.
The treachery involved: Ahithophel's betrayal of David, his former employer and confidant, is a major blow and highlights the depth of Absalom's conspiracy.
The religious spin Absalom is trying to put on his actions: Offering sacrifices suggests he's attempting to legitimize his rebellion in the eyes of the people and perhaps claim divine approval.
This verse sets the stage for the dramatic conflict between Absalom and David, a conflict fueled by ambition, betrayal, and the struggle for the throne. The inclusion of Ahithophel's name foreshadows a significant and ultimately tragic turn of events, as Ahithophel's advice will play a crucial role in the unfolding drama.