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Hushai, often referred to as "Hushai the Archite," is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of King David's reign. He is prominently featured in the books of 2 Samuel, where his loyalty and strategic acumen play a crucial role during Absalom's rebellion against David.

Background and Identity

Hushai is identified as an "Archite," which likely indicates his origin from a clan or region associated with the town of Archi, near Bethel in the territory of Benjamin (Joshua 16:2). His designation as "the king's friend" (2 Samuel 15:37) suggests a position of close personal and political trust with King David. This title implies a role akin to a confidant or advisor, highlighting the depth of his relationship with the king.

Role in Absalom's Rebellion

The most notable episode involving Hushai occurs during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son. As Absalom seeks to usurp the throne, David is forced to flee Jerusalem. Hushai meets David on the Mount of Olives, where he demonstrates his loyalty by offering to accompany the king in his flight (2 Samuel 15:32-34). However, David, recognizing Hushai's potential to serve as a counterintelligence asset, instructs him to return to Jerusalem and feign allegiance to Absalom. David's strategic intent is for Hushai to subvert the counsel of Ahithophel, Absalom's advisor, whose advice was highly esteemed and considered almost as if one had inquired of the word of God (2 Samuel 16:23).

Counsel to Absalom

Upon returning to Jerusalem, Hushai presents himself to Absalom, declaring his loyalty to the new regime (2 Samuel 16:16-19). Absalom accepts Hushai into his counsel, setting the stage for Hushai's pivotal intervention. When Ahithophel advises Absalom to pursue David immediately with a select force, Hushai counters with a different strategy. He appeals to Absalom's vanity and fear, suggesting a grand mobilization of all Israel to ensure David's complete defeat (2 Samuel 17:1-14). Hushai's counsel, designed to buy David time, is accepted over Ahithophel's, leading to the latter's despair and eventual suicide (2 Samuel 17:23).

Impact and Legacy

Hushai's successful subversion of Ahithophel's counsel is a turning point in the rebellion, allowing David to regroup and ultimately defeat Absalom's forces. His actions exemplify loyalty, wisdom, and the effective use of strategy in service to God's anointed king. Hushai's role underscores the theme of divine providence, as his intervention is seen as part of God's plan to preserve David's kingdom.

Biblical References

·2 Samuel 15:32-37: Hushai meets David and is sent back to Jerusalem.
·2 Samuel 16:16-19: Hushai pledges allegiance to Absalom.
·2 Samuel 17:1-14: Hushai's counsel to Absalom.
·2 Samuel 17:23: Ahithophel's response to his counsel being rejected.

Hushai's account is a testament to the power of loyalty and wisdom in the face of political upheaval, serving as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and strategic thinking in the service of God's purposes.

Concerning the Insurrection of Absalom against David and...
... CHAPTER 9. Concerning The Insurrection Of Absalom Against David And Concerning
Ahithophel AndHushai; And Concerning Ziba And Shimei; And How Ahithophel Hanged...

Hushai's (1 Occurrence)
...Hushai's (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 17:14 Then Absalom and all the men of Israel
said,Hushai's suggestion is better than that of Ahithophel....

Ahithophel (17 Occurrences)
... David sent his old friendHushai back to Absalom, in order that he might
counteract the counsel of Ahithophel (2 Samuel 15:31-37)....

Suggestion (25 Occurrences)
... 2 Samuel 17:6 And whenHushai came, Absalom said to him, This is what Ahithophel
has said: are we to do as he says? if not, what is your suggestion? (BBE)....

Designs (118 Occurrences)
... orders. (BBE). 2 Samuel 17:14 Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said,
Hushai's suggestion is better than that of Ahithophel. For...

Hushai (13 Occurrences)
... When David fled from Jerusalem, on account of the rebellion of Absalom, and had
reached the summit of Olivet, he there metHushai, whom he sent back to...HUSHAI....

Husham (4 Occurrences)

Effect (173 Occurrences)
... effect. (BBE). 2 Samuel 17:14 Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said,
Hushai's suggestion is better than that of Ahithophel. For...

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