2 Kingdoms (2 Samuel) 16:18Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Hushai, displaying neither confusion nor fear, responded, When God was with him, I aligned myself with him; but now that His presence is with you, I must dedicate my service to you.

Do not others extol the cunning nature of Husiyyah? In both good and evil actions, it is crucial to examine the underlying intentions. Upon such reflection, we may find that even what is truthful can at times be subject to reproach. For instance, it is recorded that Herod, "for an oath's sake, and for those that sat with him," had John executed (Mark 6:26). Yet, who would be so lacking in discernment as to endorse a truth that results in murder? It would have been preferable for Herod to abstain from swearing, and if he felt compelled to take an oath, it would have been better to speak falsely than to commit such an atrocity. Thus, hypocrisy in this case is demonstrated, not for selfish gain or the harm of others, but out of fervor for a prophet and a righteous king.