1 Ahithophel said to Absalom, ‘I would choose twelve thousand men and set out tonight in pursuit of David.
2 I would attack him while he is weary and weak. I would strike him with terror, and then all the people with him will flee. I would strike down only the king
3 and bring all the people back to you. The death of the man you seek will mean the return of all; all the people will be unharmed.’
4 This plan seemed good to Absalom and to all the elders of Israel.
5 But Absalom said, ‘Summon also Hushai the Arkite, so that we can hear what he has to say as well.’
6 When Hushai came to him, Absalom said, ‘Ahithophel has given this advice. Should we do what he says? If not, give us your opinion.’
7 Hushai replied to Absalom, ‘The advice Ahithophel has given is not good this time.