This verse, 2 Samuel 16:20, is a crucial point in the narrative of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. Here's what it means:
Context: Absalom has successfully driven his father, David, from Jerusalem. He is now in control of the capital. However, he needs to solidify his power and decide on the next steps.
Absalom seeks advice: Absalom is asking Ahithophel, a highly respected and trusted advisor of David (and previously, Absalom), for his guidance. Absalom is essentially asking, "What is our best course of action now that we've taken Jerusalem?"
Importance of Ahithophel: Ahithophel's advice was considered incredibly valuable and wise. The Bible states in 2 Samuel 16:23: "Now in those days the counsel that Ahithophel gave was as if one inquired of the word of God; so was all the counsel of Ahithophel esteemed, both by David and by Absalom." This makes Absalom's request particularly significant. Ahithophel's advice could make or break Absalom's rebellion.
Implications: Absalom's question indicates that he's not entirely sure what to do next. While he's successfully captured Jerusalem, he needs a strategic plan to crush David's forces and secure his claim to the throne. He is entrusting this critical decision to Ahithophel. The next few verses detail Ahithophel's advice, which is brutal and decisive, and it will have a significant impact on the course of the rebellion.
In summary, 2 Samuel 16:20 shows Absalom taking control and seeking strategic guidance from Ahithophel, highlighting the importance of counsel in leadership and the high regard for Ahithophel's wisdom. The verse sets the stage for the unfolding of Ahithophel's plan to solidify Absalom's rebellion and destroy David.
This verse, 2 Samuel 16:20, is a crucial point in the narrative of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. Here's what it means:
Context: Absalom has successfully driven his father, David, from Jerusalem. He is now in control of the capital. However, he needs to solidify his power and decide on the next steps.
Absalom seeks advice: Absalom is asking Ahithophel, a highly respected and trusted advisor of David (and previously, Absalom), for his guidance. Absalom is essentially asking, "What is our best course of action now that we've taken Jerusalem?"
Importance of Ahithophel: Ahithophel's advice was considered incredibly valuable and wise. The Bible states in 2 Samuel 16:23: "Now in those days the counsel that Ahithophel gave was as if one inquired of the word of God; so was all the counsel of Ahithophel esteemed, both by David and by Absalom." This makes Absalom's request particularly significant. Ahithophel's advice could make or break Absalom's rebellion.
Implications: Absalom's question indicates that he's not entirely sure what to do next. While he's successfully captured Jerusalem, he needs a strategic plan to crush David's forces and secure his claim to the throne. He is entrusting this critical decision to Ahithophel. The next few verses detail Ahithophel's advice, which is brutal and decisive, and it will have a significant impact on the course of the rebellion.
In summary, 2 Samuel 16:20 shows Absalom taking control and seeking strategic guidance from Ahithophel, highlighting the importance of counsel in leadership and the high regard for Ahithophel's wisdom. The verse sets the stage for the unfolding of Ahithophel's plan to solidify Absalom's rebellion and destroy David.