2 Samuel 17:13

Moreouer, if hee be gotten into a citie, then shall all Israel bring ropes to that city, and we will draw it into the riuer, vntill there be not one small stone found there. 2 Samuel 17:13 (KJV)

Context: This verse is part of the narrative of Absalom’s rebellion against his father, King David. In this chapter, Ahithophel, a counselor to Absalom, advises him on how to defeat David and his loyal followers. Ahithophel’s counsel is contrasted with that of Hushai, another counselor who remained loyal to David. This particular verse is part of Hushai’s counterplan to frustrate the advice given by Ahithophel.

Understanding the situation: In the preceding verses, Ahithophel suggested that Absalom should pursue David immediately with a select group of men, catch him off guard, and strike him alone. Ahithophel’s plan aimed to eliminate David, thus ensuring Absalom’s undisputed reign. However, Hushai, who was secretly loyal to David, wanted to delay Absalom’s pursuit and give David time to regroup and strengthen his forces.

Hushai’s counterplan: Hushai’s advice in 2 Samuel 17:13 is a deliberate attempt to undermine Ahithophel’s strategy. He suggests that if David and his men manage to enter a fortified city, the entire Israelite army should gather ropes and pull the city into the river until no trace of it remains. This absurd suggestion serves to highlight the impracticality and potential failure of Ahithophel’s plan, thereby causing Absalom to doubt its effectiveness.

Symbolic interpretation: The idea of pulling an entire city into the river using ropes is clearly impossible and impractical. It serves as a metaphorical representation of the futility of Ahithophel’s plan and the weakness of Absalom’s rebellion. Hushai uses this hyperbolic imagery to emphasize the strength and resilience of David’s loyal followers, who are capable of holding their ground in a fortified city.