Definition: Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:1. It's a really significant moment in the story of King David and his son Absalom. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Absalom is planning to attack David. “Ahithophel said unto Absalom…” : This refers to a counselor (advisor) named Ahithophel. He was a powerful figure who advised David and his family. “…Let me now choose out twelve thousand men…” : Absalom is proposing he gathers a huge army – around 12,000 soldiers – to attack David. This is a massive undertaking. “and I will arise and pursue after David this night.” : He's essentially saying he intends to march directly towards David’s palace, intending to confront him. He wants to pursue him. What’s the significance? This verse sets up a huge conflict. It shows: Absalom is defiant: He’s refusing to accept what David has done – his father's authority. He's plotting against David: He’s actively trying to harm him. It's a moment of crisis: This sets the stage for a major battle and a significant turning point in the story of Israel. Important Note: This verse is a bit unsettling because it suggests Absalom is acting with malice and intent to cause trouble. It’s a key step towards the events that unfold in 2 Samuel 17, leading to David's downfall. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Connect it to a specific event in the Bible?

Definition: And he also [that is] valiant, whose heart [is] as the heart of a lion, shall utterly melt: for all Israel knoweth that thy father [is] a mighty man, and [they] which [be] with him [are] valiant men.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:10. It's a really important and complex passage about David and his enemies. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it means in plain language: “He is also brave, like a lion’s heart, and will completely melt – meaning soften – all of Israel. Everyone knows that your father was a mighty man, and those who are with him are also mighty men.” Let's unpack the key parts: "He is also valiant..." : This means David is incredibly brave and strong-willed. He’s not just good at fighting; he possesses a powerful spirit. "...whose heart is as the heart of a lion..." : This is a really striking comparison. A lion's heart is fierce, protective, and unwavering. It suggests David has a deep sense of justice and a strong will to protect his people. It’s not just bravery; it’s a determined, powerful spirit. "...shall utterly melt" : This is the core of the verse. David isn't going to be easily defeated or controlled. His spirit will completely transform into something fierce and resilient. It’s like he’ll become unstoppable. "...all Israel knoweth that thy father [is] a mighty man..." : This establishes who David’s father was – a powerful king. It emphasizes his lineage and importance, linking him to a long line of heroes. "...and they which are with him are also valiant men." : This is the crucial part. It means that those who stand beside David (his loyal followers) are also incredibly brave and capable. They’re not just supportive; they have the same strength and determination as David himself. What does this verse tell us about David? He was a leader: It suggests he was a powerful and respected leader, even amidst his enemies. He had divine support: The phrase "thy father is a mighty man" implies that David received help and strength from God. He was resilient: The verse emphasizes David's ability to overcome adversity – he’ll not be easily defeated. In short, this verse portrays David as a genuinely formidable and heroic figure, deeply connected to his lineage and possessing a powerful and enduring spirit. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail, or would you like me to offer some context about the story behind this passage? For example, I can: Discuss the significance of David's strength. Explain the historical background of 2 Samuel 17:10.

Definition: Therefore I counsel that all Israel be generally gathered unto thee, from Dan even to Beersheba, as the sand that [is] by the sea for multitude; and that thou go to battle in thine own person.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:11. It’s a really important and dramatic part of David’s speech about his future trial. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Core Idea: David is essentially telling the people of Israel that he’s going to be brought before God for a big battle. He’s framing this as a collective effort – not just him fighting alone. Think of it like a massive, unified army preparing to attack. Let's unpack the parts: “Therefore I counsel…” : This means David is giving advice or speaking from a position of leadership. “…that all Israel be generally gathered unto thee…” : This means “all Israel” – basically, everyone in the kingdom of Israel. It’s urging them to come together. “…from Dan even to Beersheba…” : This is where it gets a little more specific. "Dan" is a very important city in Israel (it's often associated with David). “Beersheba” is another significant city, and it’s being suggested that the battle will take place in those two places. It’s like saying, “We need to bring everyone from these two cities together.” “…as the sand that [is] by the sea…” : This is a really clever metaphor! Sand by the sea is vast and full of life. David uses this imagery to illustrate that everyone – all the people of Israel – should be brought together in a powerful and unified way. "...for multitude; and that thou go to battle in thine own person." : This means "to fight" or "to engage in battle.” Crucially, it's saying David is going to take the lead in the battle. He’s not just participating; he's leading the charge. In short: David is telling people that he's going to be challenged by God, and he's asking them to come together as one to face this challenge – a large-scale battle. It’s a strategic move meant to show strength and unity. Why is this important? This verse sets the stage for a very challenging trial for David. It highlights his desire for widespread support and suggests that he needs to rally the people of Israel to fight alongside him, even if he's facing significant opposition. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the significance of the imagery (sand by the sea)? Connect it to a specific event in David’s life?

Definition: So shall we come upon him in some place where he shall be found, and we will light upon him as the dew falleth on the ground: and of him and of all the men that [are] with him there shall not be left so much as one.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:12. It’s a really powerful and dramatic passage about God’s judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is going to appear to David's enemies (the people who were attacking him) and, crucially, defeat them all. He’s saying he will be present with them, and he will completely destroy them. Let’s unpack it part by part: “So shall we come upon him in some place where he shall be found…” – This is a metaphorical way of saying God is going to find David. He's going to appear to him, even if he’re hiding or escaping. It’s like a shadow falling over him. “…and we will light upon him as the dew falleth on the ground…” – This is a really striking image. "Dew" represents a gentle, cleansing rain. It suggests that God's presence will be so gentle and thorough that it’ll wash away everything that opposes him. “…and of him and all the men that [are] with him there shall not be left so much as one.” – This is the core of the verse. It means that all the people who were attacking David, everyone , will be defeated completely. There won’t be a single person left standing against him. It speaks to a complete and utter annihilation of opposition. In essence, it's a declaration of God’s absolute power and his plan to vanquish all evil. What does this verse mean for us? God is in control: It emphasizes that God is actively involved in the affairs of people and will not tolerate injustice or rebellion. His justice prevails: It speaks to a just and righteous God who will ultimately deliver those who oppose him. Hope for the future: It’s a message of hope – that God will ultimately triumph over evil and bring about a peaceful resolution. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of David's ultimate victory and the restoration of his kingdom. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this in more detail, perhaps focus on its symbolism or historical context? Or would you like me to offer a different perspective on this passage? For example, we could talk about: The significance of "dew" as a symbol of divine cleansing. How this verse relates to the story of David’s rebellion and his eventual triumph.

Definition: Moreover, if he be gotten into a city, then shall all Israel bring ropes to that city, and we will draw it into the river, until there be not one small stone found there.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:13. It's a really powerful and dramatic part of the story about King David’s downfall. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: David was being persecuted: David had been trying to become king, but his enemies – particularly Saul – plotted to kill him. Saul, David's brother, betrayed him: Saul, David’s brother, conspired with the Philistines (the enemy) and killed David. This is a huge deal because it means David lost his throne and his life. What the Verse Says - It's About a Massive Rescue Operation: “Moreover, if he be gotten into a city…” – This means if David gets captured in a city, this will become a massive, desperate effort to save him. “…then shall all Israel bring ropes to that city…” – This is the key part! It’s not just a few people helping him. It's everyone . Every single person from all over Israel – from every tribe and region – will be sent to help rescue him. It’s a huge, collective effort. “…and we will draw it into the river…” – This is a symbolic image. It means they’ll use ropes and other materials to pull David out of the city. The river represents his fate - he'll be dragged down by the current. "...until there be not one small stone found there." – This is the ultimate goal. They are trying to completely remove him from the city, ensuring he’s never seen or heard again. It means they want to completely eliminate him and his presence from the area. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse speaks about a desperate act of rescue and protection. It shows the incredible power of God and His willingness to actively intervene in a situation where people are threatened. It highlights that even though David is defeated, God still wants to save him, and he’s willing to use all available resources – including the entire nation – to accomplish this. Think of it like this: It's a dramatic example of divine intervention, a show of solidarity from a larger group, and a commitment to ensure David’s safety and survival, even if it means a very difficult and significant rescue operation. Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail or perhaps connect this verse to a particular theme in the Bible?

Definition: And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite [is] better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:14. It's a really important and complex passage about God’s plan and how He works in history. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where Absalom, a young king of Israel, was arguing with Hushai, a wise advisor. Absalom was saying he thought a different approach (Hushai's advice) would be better than the one given by someone else – a more experienced and cautious advisor. The message behind this argument was that God had specifically chosen to defeat Ahithophel, a flawed advisor, because He wanted to bring bad things upon Absalom. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “2 Samuel 17:14” : This is the specific verse we're focusing on – a part of the story in the Bible. “And Absalom and all the men of Israel said…” : This tells us who was involved - Absalom, the king, and everyone in Israel (the people of Israel). It’s describing a disagreement or debate. “…The counsel of Hushai the Archite [is] better than the counsel of Ahithophel.” : This is the core of the point. Hushai was considered wiser and more skilled than Ahithophel. He offered a better plan. The word "Archite" means architect, which refers to someone who designs and plans things. “For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel…” : This is crucial. God deliberately chose Hushai’s advice because He wanted to cause trouble for Absalom. It wasn't a random decision; it was guided by God's plan. “…to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom.” : This explains why this happened. The goal of God through this event was to punish Absalom and make him suffer. In simpler terms: Absalom was arguing with a wise advisor, but God decided to use that disagreement to cause trouble for Absalom. The idea was that God wanted to bring bad things into Absalom's life, and the advisor’s advice was part of that plan. Important Note: It’s a complex story! This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of pride and self-reliance – urging people to rely on God's guidance rather than their own thoughts and plans. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss what this verse might mean in a broader context (like the story of Israel’s history)? Give you some additional background information about Hushai and Ahithophel?

Definition: Then said Hushai unto Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, Thus and thus did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and thus have I counselled.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 2 Samuel 17:15. It’s a really interesting and complex part of the story of King David's life! Here’s what it means in simpler terms, focusing on the key ideas: The Basic Story: Absalom is Angry: The verse comes after Absalom, David’s son, has been exiled by his father, David. He's feeling incredibly bitter and resentful. Hushai and Priests Talk to Each Other: Hushai, a political advisor to King David, is talking to Zadok (David’s brother) and Abiathar the priest. Ahithophel Gives Advice: A powerful, cynical advisor named Ahithophel offers advice to Absalom and the elders of Israel – basically, he's giving them bad advice. The Advice is About Absalom: This advice focuses on how Absalom should act – to challenge his father and possibly rebel against him. What Does this Verse Say? “Thus and thus did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and thus have I counselled.” "Thus and thus..." : This is a way of saying "repeatedly" or “always.” It’s emphasizing that Ahithophel gave this advice many times . "...counseled Absalom and the elders of Israel..." : Ahithophel was giving advice to both Absalom (the son) and the leaders of Israel. "...and thus and thus have I counselled." : This is the kicker. Ahithophel repeatedly offered this advice, again and again . What’s the Big Picture? This verse is a bit mysterious, but it suggests that Ahithophel was trying to manipulate David and the elders of Israel. He was trying to push Absalom into a position where he might rebel against his father. Possible Interpretations (It's not always clear): A Warning: Some believe this verse is a warning about the dangers of seeking advice from people who are self-serving and malicious. It’s highlighting that even seemingly wise advisors can be actively trying to cause trouble. A Pattern of Manipulation: It might suggest a pattern of manipulation throughout David's life, where powerful figures try to influence his decisions. Important Note: The text doesn’t explicitly say why Ahithophel was giving this advice. It just states that he did it repeatedly. In short, this verse tells us that a cynical advisor, Ahithophel, repeatedly offered bad counsel to David and the leaders of Israel, reinforcing their desire to challenge him. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Provide context about the story of Absalom’s exile? Discuss the significance of Ahithophel's role?

Definition: Now therefore send quickly, and tell David, saying, Lodge not this night in the plains of the wilderness, but speedily pass over; lest the king be swallowed up, and all the people that [are] with him.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:16. It’s a really important and dramatic passage about a man named David facing a dangerous situation. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: David was being hunted: The verse immediately tells us that David is being pursued by enemies – likely Saul, who was the king at the time. He's been targeted and is in danger. A Warning: God is sending a message to David. He’s told to immediately leave his current location (the plains of the wilderness) and move quickly. “Lodge not…” - Don't Stay Here! This is the key part. It means "don’t linger." Don’t stay put in that area – don’t become a target. “This night” - Right Now! It’s being done now . There’s no time to waste. “Swiftly pass over” - Hurry, Quickly! David needs to get away as fast as possible. "Else..." – The Danger: “And lest…” This is a warning. If he doesn't leave quickly, there’s a very real risk of something terrible happening to him. He could be killed or harmed. What it Means on a Deeper Level: This verse speaks about divine protection and a safeguard God has put in place for David. It’s a message of protection . God is actively intervening to prevent harm to David, even though he’s facing this threat. It's a story about: God’s Sovereignty: God is the one who controls the situation and makes the decision to protect David. Divine Intervention: God isn’t just passively watching; He’s actively intervening to help David survive. In short, it’s a plea for safety and a reminder that God protects those who trust in Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of David's life?

Definition: Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by Enrogel; for they might not be seen to come into the city: and a wench went and told them; and they went and told king David.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:17. It’s a really important part of the story about King David’s life and his brother Jonathan. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: Jonathan and Ahimaaz were hiding: They were trying to avoid being seen by King David. They wanted to stay away: They weren't going to go into the city, which was a big deal for David because he needed to talk to him. A woman told them: A servant or someone else told them about this situation. David heard of it: King David eventually found out about it. Putting It Together – The Core Message This verse tells us that Jonathan and Ahimaaz were involved in a secret meeting with King David. They were trying to avoid his attention because he was suspicious of them. Important Note: It’s a Story of Betrayal (Sort Of) This is a crucial part of the story – it suggests a betrayal. Jonathan and Ahimaaz, who were David's brothers, actively tried to keep him from knowing about something they did. It highlights a moment where loyalty was tested. Why is this significant? This verse opens up a whole chain of events in the Bible. It sets the stage for David's anger and ultimately leads to his downfall. It shows that even people close to someone powerful can be involved in shady or deceitful behavior. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you a little more context about the story of 2 Samuel 17?

Definition: Nevertheless a lad saw them, and told Absalom: but they went both of them away quickly, and came to a man’s house in Bahurim, which had a well in his court; whither they went down.

Explanation: Okay, let's break this verse down. It’s a little tricky, but it tells us about a very important moment in the story of Absalom. Here’s what it means: The Basic Story: Absalom is angry: The verse immediately sets up a situation where Absalom is deeply upset and feeling betrayed. He sends a message: He sends a message to his brother, Absalom, telling him to go and tell the King (David) that he’s plotting against him. A Messenger arrives: A messenger arrives with news from Absalom. What the Verse Says – Let's look at the details: "Nevertheless a lad saw them..." : This tells us someone was watching. It wasn't just the King, but someone else was witnessing this situation. "...and told Absalom: But they went both of them away quickly, and came to a man’s house in Bahurim..." : This is the key part. Two people – a boy and a messenger – traveled away from the palace (Bahurim). They quickly left. "...which had a well in his court; whither they went down." : This describes where they ended up. They found shelter at a house with a well. Putting it all together – The meaning: This verse is essentially saying that someone saw Absalom's plot and reported it to the King. The messenger, seeing this, quickly left with his companions. The fact that they went to a house with a well suggests they were seeking refuge or hiding. Overall Significance (Biblical Interpretation): This is often interpreted as a sign of divine intervention to protect Absalom and prevent him from acting against the King. It’s a moment where God seems to be watching over him and protecting him from harm. It's a reminder that God is involved in human affairs, even when we don’t understand why things are happening. Important Note: The Bible doesn't provide much detail about this event. It's more of a snapshot of a moment where someone witnessed betrayal and God intervened to preserve order. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Connect this story to a broader theme in the Bible (like justice, protection, or providence)?