2 Samuel 15:35
And hast thou not there with thee Zadok, and Abiathar the Priests? therefore it shall be, that what thing soeuer thou shalt heare out of the kings house, thou shalt tell it to Zadok and Abiathar the Priests. 2 Samuel 15:35 (KJV)
And
hast thou not there with thee Zadok and Abiathar the priests? therefore it shall be, that what thing soever thou shalt hear out of the king’s house, thou shalt tell it to Zadok and Abiathar the priests. 2 Samuel 15:35 (KJV)
After Absalom conspired against his father David and won the hearts of the people, David was forced to flee Jerusalem to avoid bloodshed and protect the city. As David departs, he is accompanied by his loyal supporters, including the Cherethites, Pelethites, and the Gittites. This flight marks a moment of profound crisis, yet also a setting for divine providence and strategic wisdom.
In 2 Samuel 15:34‑35 David speaks to Hushai, a trusted friend and advisor, instructing him to return to Jerusalem and to appear as a supporter of Absalom while secretly gathering intelligence for the king. David says to Hushai, “If you return to the city and say to Absalom, ‘I will be your servant, O king; as I have been your father’s servant previously, so now I will be your servant,’ then you may defeat the counsel of Ahithophel for me.” He further commands that any information Hushai receives from the king’s house be reported to Zadok and Abiathar the priests, ensuring a reliable channel of communication.
“Behold, I will tarry in the plain of the wilderness, until there come word from you to certify me.” This declaration, found in the surrounding context of chapter 17, underscores David’s willingness to wait patiently for God’s direction while remaining ready to act when the necessary word arrives.
Believers today can draw several principles from this episode. First, trust in God’s timing even when circumstances appear dire; David’s temporary defeat was part of a larger divine plan. Second, humility is displayed in his acceptance of exile and his reliance on others rather than personal strength. Third, the importance of wise counsel is evident—David deliberately uses Hushai as an informant and routes the intelligence through the faithful priests Zadok and Abiathar. In moments of uncertainty, Christians are encouraged to submit to God’s will, seek godly counsel, and remain vigilant for the “word” that confirms God’s purpose.
