2 Samuel 17:7
2 Samuel 17:7 in Multiple Translations
Hushai replied, “This time the advice of Ahithophel is not sound.”
And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given is not good at this time.
And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given this time is not good.
And Hushai said to Absalom, Ahithophel's idea is not a good one at this time.
“For once Ahithophel's advice isn't good,” Hushai replied.
Hushai then answered vnto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath giuen, is not good at this time.
And Hushai saith unto Absalom, 'Not good [is] the counsel that Ahithophel hath counselled at this time.'
Hushai said to Absalom, “The counsel that Ahithophel has given this time is not good.”
And Hushai said to Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given, is not good at this time.
And Chusai said to Absalom: The counsel that Achitophel hath given this time is not good.
Hushai replied, “This time what Ahithophel has suggested is not good advice.
Hushai lied and answered, “That old man usually talks straight. But not today. That plan he just told you, it’s no good.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 17:7
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
2 Samuel 17:7 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יֹּ֥אמֶר
חוּשַׁ֖י
אֶל
אַבְשָׁל֑וֹם
לֹֽא
טוֹבָ֧ה
הָ/עֵצָ֛ה
אֲשֶׁר
יָעַ֥ץ
אֲחִיתֹ֖פֶל
בַּ/פַּ֥עַם
הַ/זֹּֽאת
וַ/יֹּ֥אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
חוּשַׁ֖י
Chûwshay
H2365
Hushai
N-proper
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
אַבְשָׁל֑וֹם
ʼĂbîyshâlôwm
H53
Absalom
N-proper
לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
טוֹבָ֧ה
ṭôwb
H2896
pleasant
Adj
הָ/עֵצָ֛ה
ʻêtsâh
H6098
counsel
Art | N-fs
אֲשֶׁר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
יָעַ֥ץ
yâʻats
H3289
to advise
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
אֲחִיתֹ֖פֶל
ʼĂchîythôphel
H302
Ahithophel
N-proper
בַּ/פַּ֥עַם
paʻam
H6471
beat
Prep | N-fs
הַ/זֹּֽאת
zôʼth
H2063
this
Art | Pron
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 17:7
וַ/יֹּ֥אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
חוּשַׁ֖י
Chûwshay
H2365
"Hushai"
N-proper
Hushai was a friend of King David and an Archite, first mentioned in 2 Samuel 15:32. He was also the father of Baana, an officer of Solomon. His name means hastening.
Definition: A man living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.15.32; father of: Baana (H1195H) § Hushai = "hasting" 1) an Archite, a friend of David 2) the father of Baana, an officer of Solomon; probably the same as 1
Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: Hushai. See also: 2 Samuel 15:32; 2 Samuel 17:6; 1 Chronicles 27:33.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
אַבְשָׁל֑וֹם
ʼĂbîyshâlôwm
H53
"Absalom"
N-proper
Absalom was a son of King David, mentioned in 2 Samuel 3:3, and had several half-brothers. He is also referred to as Abishalom in some translations. Absalom played a significant role in the United Monarchy period.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.3.3; son of: David (H1732) and Maacah (H4601I); half-brother of: Amnon (H0550), Chileab (H3609), Adonijah (H0138), Shephatiah (H8203), Ithream (H3507), Shammua (H8051H), Shobab (H7727), Nathan (H5416), Solomon (H8010), Ibhar (H2984), Elishua (H0474), Nepheg (H5298H), Japhia (H3309I), Elishama (H0476H), Eliada (H0450), Eliphelet (H0467), Tamar (H8559H), Elpelet (H0467I), Nogah (H5052) and Jerimoth (H3406N); father of: Tamar (H8559I); also called Abishalom at 1Ki.15.2,10; § Absalom or Abishalom = "my father is peace" 1) father-in-law of Rehoboam 2) third son of David, killer of first-born son Amnon, also leader of revolt against his father-David
Usage: Occurs in 92 OT verses. KJV: Abishalom, Absalom. See also: 2 Samuel 3:3; 2 Samuel 16:16; Psalms 3:1.
לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
טוֹבָ֧ה
ṭôwb
H2896
"pleasant"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means good or welfare, describing something that is beneficial or pleasing, like a good deed or a happy time. It is used in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms. This word is often translated as 'good' or 'beautiful'.
Definition: adj 1) good, pleasant, agreeable 1a) pleasant, agreeable (to the senses) 1b) pleasant (to the higher nature) 1c) good, excellent (of its kind) 1d) good, rich, valuable in estimation 1e) good, appropriate, becoming 1f) better (comparative) 1g) glad, happy, prosperous (of man's sensuous nature) 1h) good understanding (of man's intellectual nature) 1i) good, kind, benign 1j) good, right (ethical) Aramaic equivalent: tav (טָב "fine" H2869)
Usage: Occurs in 521 OT verses. KJV: beautiful, best, better, bountiful, cheerful, at ease, [idiom] fair (word), (be in) favour, fine, glad, good (deed, -lier, -liest, -ly, -ness, -s), graciously, joyful, kindly, kindness, liketh (best), loving, merry, [idiom] most, pleasant, [phrase] pleaseth, pleasure, precious, prosperity, ready, sweet, wealth, welfare, (be) well(-favoured). See also: Genesis 1:4; Ruth 2:22; 2 Chronicles 3:8.
הָ/עֵצָ֛ה
ʻêtsâh
H6098
"counsel"
Art | N-fs
This Hebrew word means counsel or advice, implying a plan or purpose. It is used in the Bible when describing wise decision-making.
Definition: counsel, advice, purpose
Usage: Occurs in 85 OT verses. KJV: advice, advisement, counsel(l-(or)), purpose. See also: Deuteronomy 32:28; Psalms 107:11; Psalms 1:1.
אֲשֶׁר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
יָעַ֥ץ
yâʻats
H3289
"to advise"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to advise or counsel someone, like giving guidance or planning something. It is used in the Bible to describe people seeking advice or working together to make a plan. The KJV translates it as advise or counsel.
Definition: 1) to advise, consult, give counsel, counsel, purpose, devise, plan 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to advise, counsel, give counsel, consult 1a2) counsellor (participle) 1b) (Niphal) to consult together, exchange counsel, deliberate, counsel together 1c) (Hithpael) to conspire
Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: advertise, take advise, advise (well), consult, (give, take) counsel(-lor), determine, devise, guide, purpose. See also: Exodus 18:19; Job 26:3; Psalms 16:7.
אֲחִיתֹ֖פֶל
ʼĂchîythôphel
H302
"Ahithophel"
N-proper
Ahithophel was an Israelite who lived during King David's time and was one of his closest advisors. His name means 'my brother is foolish' and he is known for joining Absalom's rebellion against David. Ahithophel is also the grandfather of Bathsheba.
Definition: A man living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.15.12; father of: Eliam (H0463H) § Ahithophel = "my brother is foolish (folly)" a counsellor of David, grandfather of Bathsheba (cf 2Sa 11:3, 23:34), who joined Absalom in revolt against David, and committed suicide when Absalom did not heed his counsel
Usage: Occurs in 17 OT verses. KJV: Ahithophel. See also: 2 Samuel 15:12; 2 Samuel 17:6; 1 Chronicles 27:34.
בַּ/פַּ֥עַם
paʻam
H6471
"beat"
Prep | N-fs
This word refers to a beat or stroke, like a footstep or a blow. It can also mean a time or occurrence, and is used in the Bible to describe things like a single step or a repeated action.
Definition: 1) stroke, beat, foot, step, anvil, occurrence 1a) foot, hoof-beat, footfall, footstep 1b) anvil 1c) occurrence, time, stroke, beat 1c1) one time, once, twice, thrice, as time on time, at this repetition, this once, now at length, now...now, at one time...at another
Usage: Occurs in 108 OT verses. KJV: anvil, corner, foot(-step), going, (hundred-) fold, [idiom] now, (this) [phrase] once, order, rank, step, [phrase] thrice, (often-), second, this, two) time(-s), twice, wheel. See also: Genesis 2:23; 1 Samuel 3:10; Psalms 17:5.
הַ/זֹּֽאת
zôʼth
H2063
"this"
Art | Pron
This Hebrew word means this or that, often used to point out something specific. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how
Usage: Occurs in 570 OT verses. KJV: hereby (-in, -with), it, likewise, the one (other, same), she, so (much), such (deed), that, therefore, these, this (thing), thus. See also: Genesis 2:23; Numbers 7:88; Judges 1:27.
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 17:7
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Samuel 17:7 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 17:7
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 17:7
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:7
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:7
- Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:7
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 17:7
- Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 17:7
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 17:7
Context — Hushai Counters Ahithophel’s Advice
5Then Absalom said, “Summon Hushai the Archite as well, and let us hear what he too has to say.”
6So Hushai came to Absalom, who told him, “Ahithophel has spoken this proposal. Should we carry it out? If not, what do you say?”
7Hushai replied, “This time the advice of Ahithophel is not sound.”
8He continued, “You know your father and his men. They are mighty men, and as fierce as a wild bear robbed of her cubs. Moreover, your father is a man of war who will not spend the night with the troops. 9Surely by now he is hiding in a cave or some other location. If some of your troops fall first, whoever hears of it will say, ‘There has been a slaughter among the troops who follow Absalom.’Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 31:8 | Open your mouth for those with no voice, for the cause of all the dispossessed. |
2 Samuel 17:7 Summary
In 2 Samuel 17:7, Hushai tells Absalom that Ahithophel's advice is not sound, which means it's not a good idea. Hushai is trying to protect David and fulfill God's plan, just like we see in 1 Samuel 16:1. This verse teaches us to seek wisdom and discernment in our decision-making, just like Hushai did, and to be careful not to underestimate the abilities and strengths of others, as warned in Proverbs 24:6. By following Hushai's example, we can make wise decisions and trust in God's sovereignty, as seen in Romans 8:28.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Hushai's response to Absalom in 2 Samuel 17:7?
Hushai's response is significant because it shows that he is trying to dissuade Absalom from following Ahithophel's advice, which would have led to David's downfall, as seen in 2 Samuel 17:1-6. By saying that Ahithophel's advice is not sound, Hushai is trying to protect David and ultimately fulfill God's plan, as stated in 1 Samuel 16:1.
Why does Hushai say that Ahithophel's advice is not sound in this particular situation?
Hushai says that Ahithophel's advice is not sound because he knows that David is a skilled warrior and that his men are fierce and loyal, as mentioned in 2 Samuel 17:8. Hushai is trying to caution Absalom against underestimating his father's abilities and the loyalty of his men, as warned in Proverbs 24:6.
How does Hushai's response relate to the overall story of David and Absalom?
Hushai's response is a pivotal moment in the story of David and Absalom, as it helps to delay Absalom's attack on David and ultimately leads to Absalom's defeat, as seen in 2 Samuel 18:1-17. This story illustrates the themes of loyalty, wisdom, and God's sovereignty, as seen in Romans 8:28.
What can we learn from Hushai's example in this verse?
We can learn from Hushai's example the importance of seeking wisdom and discernment in our decision-making, as encouraged in James 1:5. We should also be cautious not to underestimate the abilities and strengths of others, as warned in 1 Corinthians 10:12.
Reflection Questions
- What are some situations in my life where I need to seek wisdom and discernment, and how can I apply Hushai's example to those situations?
- How can I balance loyalty to my authorities with the need to speak truth and caution, as Hushai did with Absalom?
- What are some potential consequences of underestimating the abilities and strengths of others, and how can I avoid making that mistake in my relationships?
- How does Hushai's response reflect the theme of God's sovereignty in the story of David and Absalom, and what can I learn from that theme in my own life?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 17:7
And Hushai said to Absalom,.... Having leave to give his opinion freely: the counsel that Ahithophel hath given [is] not good at this time; he owns that Ahithophel was a good counsellor, and that the
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 17:7
And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel. No JFB commentary on these verses.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:7
Though at other times he generally gives most wise and admirable counsel; yet, as he is a man, he seems now to be under a mistake, and not sufficiently to consider all the present circumstances of this business.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:7
2 Samuel 17:7 And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given [is] not good at this time.Ver. 7. Is not good at this time.] This was a bold speech, and such as if he had not made good by alleging to Absalom verisimilia, et ingenio illius superbo accommodata, arguments probable, and suitable to his ambitious disposition, there had been but one law for Hushai; not unlike that of the Locrians, who ordained that whoso would propose a new law, should come with a halter about his neck, that if it were not liked, he should be hanged. Here, then, he beginneth with his Errorem erravit non levem vir alioqui consultissimus Ahithophel. This most grave and wise counsellor is out in this particular; as well he may be, since “Oυδειςανθρωπωναυτοςαπαντασοφος.”
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:7
(7) Not good at this time.—The words, at this time, should be transposed. What Hushai says is “This time the counsel of Ahithophel is not good,” implying that his previous advice (2 Samuel 16:21) had been wise, thus assuming an appearance of candour.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 17:7
7. The counsel, &c.] The counsel which Ahithophel hath counselled this time is not good: in contrast to his previous counsel (ch. 2 Samuel 16:21), which Hushai pretends to approve.
Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 17:7
At this time - Rather, “The counsel which Ahithophel has given this time is not good.” He contrasts it with that given before 2 Samuel 16:21, which was good.
Sermons on 2 Samuel 17:7
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Rope Wanted by William Booth | In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of Mary, a young woman who bravely risked her life to save others during a devastating tidal wave. Despite the warnings of her comrades |
|
Good News to the Poor by Jackie Pullinger | In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing Jesus' proclamation of preaching good news to the poor. He highlights the current need for this message, especially in times of nat |
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Call to Discipleship by K.P. Yohannan | This sermon emphasizes the importance of reaching out to children in need through the Bridge of Hope program by Gospel for Asia. It highlights the impact of investing in children's |
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Holl-09 Israel in the Cosmic Drama by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a prophetic perspective that considers eternity and its impact on the present. He calls out the church in Holland to |
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No Longer a Slum Dog - New Book by K.P. Yohannan | This sermon by K.P. Yohannan, President of Gospel for Asia, focuses on the plight and suffering of children, particularly the Dalit community in India and neighboring nations. He s |
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Righteous Anger by Shane Idleman | This sermon emphasizes the call for the church to be powerful, not passive, standing up for righteousness in a fallen world. It addresses the importance of speaking out against soc |
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Unreached Peoples: The Kho People of Pakistan by Paul Hattaway | This sermon sheds light on the challenging circumstances faced by the Khor people in Chitral Valley, where Islam dominates and Christianity is not tolerated, with severe consequenc |