So shall wee come vpon him in some place where he shall be found, and we will light vpon him as the dew falleth on the ground: and of him and of all the men that are with him, there shall not be left so much as one. 2 Samuel 17:12 (KJV)
Context: 2 Samuel 17:12 is part of the narrative of Absalom’s rebellion against his father David. Absalom had conspired against David, seeking to overthrow him and take the throne. In this verse one of Absalom’s advisors, Hushai, presents a plan to pursue and capture David.
“So shall we come upon him”: Hushai suggests a strategy to locate David and his followers and then ambush them. This indicates the determination of Absalom and his counselors to capture David and eliminate him as a threat.
“As the dew falleth on the ground”: The comparison to dew falling on the ground signifies the unexpected and widespread nature of the ambush. Dew is often used metaphorically in Scripture to describe something gentle, refreshing, and abundant; here it emphasizes that the attack would be swift and overwhelming, catching David and his men off guard.
“Of him and of all the men that are with him there shall not be left so much as one”: Hushai implies that the attack will be so devastating that not a single person among David’s followers will escape. This reflects the intensity and thoroughness of the planned ambush.
Key Lessons:
The intensity of opposition – David faced a severe threat from his own son and experienced the pain of betrayal. Even those in positions of leadership may encounter serious challenges and opposition. The situation calls believers to seek God’s guidance and trust in His deliverance.
The importance of discernment – Hushai’s plan to mislead Absalom and buy time for David to prepare for battle underscores the value of wisdom in crisis. Believers are urged to seek counsel from God and trusted advisors to make sound decisions.
God’s faithfulness in trouble – Despite the dire circumstances, God remained faithful to David and ensured his safety. This reminds us that God is present in our trials and will guide us through difficult circumstances.
The consequences of rebellion – Absalom’s rebellion ultimately led to his own downfall, highlighting the importance of honoring authority and understanding the severe ramifications of rebellious actions. The passage serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of disobedience.
For a fuller understanding, readers should examine the surrounding verses and consult reliable commentaries or study guides.
