Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:6

2 Samuel 17:6, in which Absalom, the son of David, seeks counsel and advice, serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative of the rebellion against King David. The verse encapsulates the idea of seeking wisdom in a time of turmoil and highlights the contrast between divine wisdom and human counsel.

Contextual Background

To fully grasp the implications of this verse, it is essential to understand the broader context of Absalom's rebellion. Absalom had stolen the hearts of the people of Israel and sought to establish himself as king in place of his father, David. This rebellion was not merely a political uprising; it also represented a familial betrayal that carried significant theological weight, as it involved the chosen lineage of God’s covenant.

Exegetical Insights

• The Rebellion of Absalom: Absalom's revolt was marked by a desire for power and a disregard for his father's kingship. As stated in Matthew Henry’s commentary, "his ambition paved the way for his counsel." This illustrates the way personal desires can lead to destruction.
• Seeking Counsel: The act of consulting others, as depicted in this verse, underscores a common biblical theme of reliance on communal wisdom. Albert Barnes notes that "Absalom's turning to Ahithophel, who was known for his sagacity, reflects a reliance on worldly advisors rather than divine guidance."
• Contrasting Counsel: The counsel sought by Absalom was not just administrative but spiritual in nature as his decisions held moral implications. Adam Clarke emphasizes that "the counsel of Ahithophel was considered as decisive as the oracle of God, revealing the danger of valuing human wisdom above divine truth."
• The Role of Ahithophel: Ahithophel was regarded as a shrewd counselor and had previously served David. His advice to Absalom revealed the danger of turning away from God’s chosen authority; Henry points out, "the king who trusts in man ultimately faces peril."

Theological Reflection

This scripture invites us to reflect on the necessity of divine counsel in our lives. The choice made by Absalom to seek counsel from Ahithophel instead of turning to God highlights a critical spiritual principle: when faced with dire circumstances, the call to seek God's wisdom is paramount.

While human wisdom may boast of clarity and insight, it lacks the ultimate truth found in divine revelation. The counsel of those with worldly experience, like Ahithophel, can sometimes lead one astray, as it stems from a perspective disconnected from God's truth.

Practical Applications

• Seek Divine Guidance: In times of crisis, believers should prioritize seeking God’s wisdom through prayer and Scripture rather than relying solely on human reasoning.
• Evaluate Counsel: Not all advice is created equal. Reflecting on the sources of influence in our lives can help us discern godly counsel from worldly wisdom.
• Community and Accountability: Engaging with a community of faith provides opportunities for collective wisdom. Seeking counsel from trusted spiritual leaders encourages a reliance on God’s guidance.
• Resist Ambition: The sinful nature often drives a desire for power and recognition. This passage serves as a caution against the ambitions that can lead to spiritual downfall.

Conclusion

2 Samuel 17:6 serves as a poignant reminder for pastors, students, scholars, and all believers that the pursuit of wisdom should be rooted in God’s unfailing truth. The counsels we choose to heed reflect deeply on our spiritual health and alignment with divine purposes. As seen in the narrative of Absalom’s rebellion, reliance on human wisdom can lead to destructive outcomes, while seeking God’s guidance leads to peace and righteousness.