And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto thy father’s concubines, which he hath left to keep the house; and all Israel shall hear that thou art abhorred of thy father: then shall the hands of all that are with thee be strong.
And Ahithophel said to Absalom, 'Sleep with your father's concubines, whom he left to take care of the palace. When all Israel hears that your father completely despises you, then everyone who follows you will be encouraged and fight harder.'
Ahithophel advised Absalom to publicly disgrace his father David by taking his concubines, believing this would make Absalom's supporters more committed to the rebellion since there would be no possibility of reconciliation.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs during Absalom's rebellion against his father King David, when David had fled Jerusalem. Ahithophel was David's former counselor who had joined Absalom's revolt. In ancient Near Eastern culture, taking a ruler's concubines was a public declaration of claiming his throne and power, making reconciliation impossible.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.