Ahithophel, a prominent counselor during the reign of King David, is a notable example of a false friend in the biblical narrative. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel, where his betrayal plays a significant role in the rebellion of Absalom, David's son.

Background and Role

Ahithophel was renowned for his wisdom and counsel, so much so that his advice was regarded as if one were inquiring of the word of God (2 Samuel 16:23). He served as a trusted advisor to King David, and his counsel was highly esteemed in the royal court. However, despite his position and the trust placed in him by David, Ahithophel's loyalty was not steadfast.

Betrayal and Alignment with Absalom

The seeds of Ahithophel's betrayal are sown during Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. When Absalom declared himself king in Hebron, Ahithophel chose to side with him, abandoning David in his time of need. This act of treachery is recorded in 2 Samuel 15:12: "While Absalom was offering sacrifices, he sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, to come from his hometown of Giloh. And so the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom’s following kept increasing" .

Ahithophel's decision to join Absalom was a significant blow to David, as it not only represented a personal betrayal but also lent credibility and strength to Absalom's insurrection. Ahithophel's counsel was highly valued, and his defection was a strategic advantage for Absalom.

Counsel Against David

Once aligned with Absalom, Ahithophel's advice was aimed at ensuring David's defeat. He proposed a plan to pursue David immediately, taking advantage of his vulnerability and exhaustion. In 2 Samuel 17:1-2, Ahithophel advised, "Let me choose twelve thousand men and set out tonight in pursuit of David. I will attack him while he is weary and weak. I will panic him, and all the people with him will flee. I will strike down only the king" .

However, God intervened to thwart Ahithophel's counsel. Hushai the Archite, another of David's friends who had infiltrated Absalom's court, provided alternative advice that was ultimately followed. This advice gave David time to regroup and prepare for the impending conflict.

Demise of Ahithophel

Ahithophel's account ends in tragedy. When he realized that his counsel had not been followed and that Absalom's rebellion was likely to fail, he took his own life. 2 Samuel 17:23 records, "When Ahithophel saw that his advice had not been followed, he saddled his donkey and set out for his house in his hometown. He put his house in order and then hanged himself. So he died and was buried in his father’s tomb" .

Significance

Ahithophel's betrayal of David serves as a poignant example of the dangers posed by false friends. His actions underscore the themes of loyalty, trust, and the consequences of betrayal. Despite his wisdom and esteemed position, Ahithophel's lack of faithfulness to David ultimately led to his downfall. His account is a sobering reminder of the importance of true loyalty and the destructive potential of treachery.2 Samuel 15:12
And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counselor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.
Nave's Topical Index

The Betrayal
... worketh death, which drove him, like Ahithophel, his prototype ... painful; but to live
with beloved friends who would ... have a fair reputation and a false heart is ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 9 1863/the betrayal.htm

Healing for the Wounded
... When Ahithophel forsakes David, when the kind friend unto whom ... No, my friends, we
must be humbled in the ... Although some who teach false doctrine do assert that ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/healing for the wounded.htm

Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians.
... Ahithophel, example of flattery, [711]205 ... of adjuration, [1033]372; first all friends,
[1034]331 ... Christ, [1101]284; warned against some false philosophizer that ...
/.../homilies on philippians colossians and.htm

A Few Sighs from Hell;
... of infinite wisdom has declared it false, that miracles ... Ah friends, consider, here
is an ungodly man upon ... was the death of Balaam, Agag, Ahithophel, Haman, Judas ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a few sighs from hell.htm

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