2 samuel 17:11 - But I counsel that all Israel be gathered together to you, from Dan even to Beersheba, as the sand that is by the sea for multitude; and that you go to battle in your own person.
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What does "2 samuel 17:11" mean?
This verse, 2 Samuel 17:11, is part of Ahithophel's advice to Absalom on how to defeat King David. Let's break it down:
"But I counsel that all Israel be gathered together to you, from Dan even to Beersheba..." Ahithophel is suggesting that Absalom gather a massive army, representing the entire nation of Israel ("all Israel"). "From Dan to Beersheba" is a common phrase signifying the entire geographical extent of Israel, from its northernmost point (Dan) to its southernmost point (Beersheba).
"...as the sand that is by the sea for multitude..." This is a hyperbolic statement emphasizing the sheer size of the army Absalom should assemble. Comparing the army to the countless grains of sand on the seashore is meant to intimidate David and his followers.
"...and that you go to battle in your own person." This is the crux of Ahithophel's advice. He is urging Absalom to personally lead the army into battle. By placing himself at the head of the massive force, Absalom would:
Inspire his troops: Absalom's presence would motivate the soldiers and ensure their loyalty.
Solidify his claim to the throne: Leading the army to victory would demonstrate Absalom's strength and authority as the rightful king.
Ensure a decisive victory: Ahithophel believed that with such a large army and Absalom's leadership, they would crush David's forces decisively.
In summary, Ahithophel's advice is a strategy for Absalom to quickly and decisively end the rebellion by gathering an overwhelming army and personally leading them into battle. It plays on the idea that a large, unified force under Absalom's direct command would be unstoppable.
Why is this advice important?
This advice is considered brilliant from a purely strategic point of view. Ahithophel was known for his wisdom and counsel. However, Absalom ultimately rejected this advice in favor of Hushai's counsel, which was designed to delay the attack and give David time to regroup. The rejection of Ahithophel's advice proved to be a turning point in the story, leading to Absalom's eventual defeat and death.
2 samuel 17:11 - But I counsel that all Israel be gathered together to you, from Dan even to Beersheba, as the sand that is by the sea for multitude; and that you go to battle in your own person.
What does "2 samuel 17:11" mean?
This verse, 2 Samuel 17:11, is part of Ahithophel's advice to Absalom on how to defeat King David. Let's break it down:
"But I counsel that all Israel be gathered together to you, from Dan even to Beersheba..." Ahithophel is suggesting that Absalom gather a massive army, representing the entire nation of Israel ("all Israel"). "From Dan to Beersheba" is a common phrase signifying the entire geographical extent of Israel, from its northernmost point (Dan) to its southernmost point (Beersheba).
"...as the sand that is by the sea for multitude..." This is a hyperbolic statement emphasizing the sheer size of the army Absalom should assemble. Comparing the army to the countless grains of sand on the seashore is meant to intimidate David and his followers.
"...and that you go to battle in your own person." This is the crux of Ahithophel's advice. He is urging Absalom to personally lead the army into battle. By placing himself at the head of the massive force, Absalom would:
Inspire his troops: Absalom's presence would motivate the soldiers and ensure their loyalty.
Solidify his claim to the throne: Leading the army to victory would demonstrate Absalom's strength and authority as the rightful king.
Ensure a decisive victory: Ahithophel believed that with such a large army and Absalom's leadership, they would crush David's forces decisively.
In summary, Ahithophel's advice is a strategy for Absalom to quickly and decisively end the rebellion by gathering an overwhelming army and personally leading them into battle. It plays on the idea that a large, unified force under Absalom's direct command would be unstoppable.
Why is this advice important?
This advice is considered brilliant from a purely strategic point of view. Ahithophel was known for his wisdom and counsel. However, Absalom ultimately rejected this advice in favor of Hushai's counsel, which was designed to delay the attack and give David time to regroup. The rejection of Ahithophel's advice proved to be a turning point in the story, leading to Absalom's eventual defeat and death.