2 Kingdoms (2 Samuel) 17:14Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Scripture indicates that the Lord ordained the downfall of Ahithophel's wise counsel, allowing calamity to befall Absalom. Ahithophel's advice was well-received because it was opportune and aligned with Absalom's ambitions, capitalizing on the fleeting advantage he had over his father, David, whom he sought to overthrow. Had it not been for the Lord's intervention in corrupting Ahithophel's counsel by impacting Absalom's heart, he may have succeeded in his schemes against David. Instead, Absalom dismissed this wise counsel and chose to follow Hushai’s advice, which ultimately led to further misfortunes instigated by the Lord upon Absalom.

How did the anointed one, David, utilize the counselor Ahithophel, who provided malevolent advice? In the presence of the righteous, the most cunning individuals disguise their treachery; yet when they encounter someone who is entertained by their schemes, they disclose their true intentions and say what benefits those who listen. Such was the case with Ahithophel. He presented counsel to David that aligned with his righteous objectives. Conversely, he advised Absalom in accordance with his own inclinations. Fearing that nature would unite the father and son, and worrying about facing consequences for his treachery after any potential reconciliation, Ahithophel urged Absalom toward grave wrongdoing, ensuring that reconciliation was impossible.

What can we conclude about Hushai's righteous deception of Absalom aimed at preserving King David's life? While the counsel was given with noble intentions by the deceiver and posed a risk to the one being questioned, it is validated by Scripture, which states that the Lord determined to thwart the wise counsel of Ahithophel and bring disaster upon Absalom. It is not justifiable to condemn actions rooted in righteous intent and aimed at a good outcome, especially when they serve the salvation and spiritual triumph of a devoted servant of God, even if such methods involve deceit.

The title of the seventh psalm appears to differ from the accounts found in the Books of Kings concerning David. In those accounts, Hushai, David’s chief companion, is referred to as the son of Arachin, whereas in the psalm, he is identified as the son of Jemeneh. However, neither this Hushai nor any of those mentioned in Kings is actually the son of Jemeneh. Was he possibly given the name son of Jemeneh because of the extraordinary bravery and valor he displayed by posing as a friend to Absalom while thwarting the schemes of Ahithophel, who was known for his deep military insight?