Ahithophel

Ahithophel was a wise counselor to David who defected to Absalom's side during Absalom's rebellion, but later committed suicide when his advice was not followed.

Ahithophel was a highly respected counselor to King David, known for his wisdom and insight. His advice was regarded as if one had inquired of the word of God. (2Sa 16:23) He was also the grandfather of Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite, whom David later married after Uriah's death. (2Sa 23:34)

However, during Absalom's rebellion against David, Ahithophel defected and joined Absalom's side. (2Sa 15:12) When David learned of Ahithophel's betrayal, he prayed that God would turn Ahithophel's counsel into foolishness. (2Sa 15:31).

Absalom sought Ahithophel's advice on how to proceed against David. Ahithophel counseled Absalom to pursue David immediately and strike him down while he was weak and vulnerable. (2Sa 17:1-4) However, Absalom also sought the advice of Hushai the Archite, who was secretly loyal to David. Hushai convinced Absalom to delay the attack, giving David time to regroup and strengthen his forces. (2Sa 17:5-14)

When Ahithophel saw that his advice was not followed, he returned to his home, put his household in order, and hanged himself, realizing that Absalom's cause was doomed to fail. (2Sa 17:23)

Ahithophel's betrayal and subsequent suicide are seen as a fulfillment of David's prayer and demonstrate the consequences of turning against God's anointed king. His story serves as a warning against pride, ambition, and disloyalty, and highlights the importance of seeking and following wise counsel that aligns with God's will.

Brother of insipidity or impiety, a man greatly renowned for his sagacity among the Jews. At the time of Absalom’s revolt he deserted David (Ps. 41:9; 55:12-14) and espoused the cause of Absalom (2 Sam. 15:12). David sent his old friend Hushai back to Absalom, in order that he might counteract the counsel of Ahithophel (2 Sam. 15:31-37). This end was so far gained that Ahithophel saw he had no longer any influence, and accordingly he at once left the camp of Absalom and returned to Giloh, his native place, where, after arranging his wordly affairs, he hanged himself, and was buried in the sepulchre of his fathers (2 Sam. 17:1-23). He was the type of Judas (Ps. 41:9).