Bible Strands
2 Samuel 17:1
Furthermore, Ahithophel said to Absalom, “Let me choose twelve thousand men and set out tonight in pursuit of David.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Ahithophel addresses Absalom during the rebellion, proposing an immediate nighttime pursuit of David.
The words — אֶבְחֲרָה ('ev.cha.Rah) means "let me choose," and נָּא (Na') functions as "please," framing the proposal as a direct request.
The thread — The theme of swift movement toward violence appears in Isaiah 59:7, while the contrast of divine protection for the pursued king echoes Psalms 3:3 and Psalms 4:8.
Why it lands — The text records Ahithophel’s proposal to strike David while he is weary. It presents a tactical calculation that demands the reader observe human strategy in motion.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:
Cross-references
- Isaiah 59:7 Their feet run to evil; they are swift to shed innocent blood. Their thoughts are sinful thoughts; ruin and destruction lie in their wake.
- Psalms 3:3 But You, O LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, and the One who lifts my head.
- Psalms 4:8 I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
- Psalms 109:2 For wicked and deceitful mouths open against me; they speak against me with lying tongues.
- Proverbs 4:16 For they cannot sleep unless they do evil; they are deprived of slumber until they make someone fall.
- Proverbs 1:16 For their feet run to evil, and they are swift to shed blood.