CHAP. XV. Absalom, by fair speeches and affected courtesy, steals the hearts of the people, 1-6. Under pretence of a vow, he obtains leave to go to Hebron, where he raises rebellion, 7-12. + there is no man deputed of the king to hear thee. 4 Absalom said moreover, d Oh, that David hearing it retires from Jerusalem, 13-18. Ittai the I were made judge in the land, that every Gittite faithfully adheres to him, and the people weep over him, 19-23. Zadok and Abiathar are sent back with the ark, 24-29. David and his company ascend mount Olivet weeping, 30. Hearing that Ahithophel had joined Absalom, he prays that his counsel may be turned into foolishness, 31. Hushai is sent back with instructions, 32-37. lieve those, who are in trouble: but even compassion, amiable as it is, will not justify our violations of the divine law, or neglect of the important duties of our station. (Note, Ex. 23:1 3.) With this single exception, alleviating misery is the noblest privilege and employment of the great; who should in this especially "remember the LORD their God:" not only his authority and their accountableness to him; but his compassion and mercy to others and to themselves; and his justice and holiness, who in his love to sinners manifests most conspicuously his abhorrence of their crimes.-As all must die, and there is no recal from the tomb by human power, we should not spend our time in immoderate, unavailing lamentations for the dead; but should be employed in preparing for our own dissolution, and in seizing the fleeting opportunity of "serving our generation."When we are most commended for our discernment, we generally act the most foolishly; for those very praises cloud the understanding and pervert the judgment. We deem it unnecessary for persons, of such acknowledged wisdom as we are, to waste time in nice distinctions; we can scarcely refuse to speak comfortably to them, who speak so agreeably to us: and hence extravagant commendations lead to self-deception, and entangle all parties in the net of the great deceiver of our fallen race. man which hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice! 5 And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him. CHAP. XV. V. 1-6. The last clause in these verses aptly marks the way, in which Absalom ingratiated himself with the people. He "stole the hearts of the men of Israel." (Note, Rom. 16:17-20.) He did not gain their hearts by eminent services, or by a wise and virtuous conduct. But he affected to look great, as heir to the crown; and yet to be very condescending, and affable to his inferiors: he pretended a great regard to their interests, and threw out artful insinuations against David's administration: he flattered every one who had a cause to be tried, with the assurance that he had right on his side; that, if it went against him, he might be led to accuse David and the magistrates of injustice. Though Absalom knew not how to obey, and deserved to die for his atrocious crime; yet he expressed a vehement desire to be judge over all the land; and In our treatment of children or others who suggested, that suits should not then be so tehave greatly offended, every method should be dious, expensive, and partially decided as they used, which has a tendency to mortify pride, were. This he confirmed by rising early and and to bring them to repentance; and in aiming by apparent application; though it was to other at this important object, the feelings of our people's business, and not to his own duty: and hearts must be repressed. But when high by such sinister arts, united with his personal rank, early indulgence, impunity in crimes, attractions, magnificence, and address, he imflattering commendations, personal accomplish- posed upon multitudes all over the land, to prements, and popular favor, concur to increase fer so worthless a character to the wise, rightthe natural haughtiness of the human heart; eous, and pious David!-Others of the king's and when the Lord leaves a man to himself, it sons were employed in public business, but Abis inconceivable to what a pitch of arrogance salom seems not to have had any place. (Note, and insolence he will arrive. A person of this 8:15-18.) This might offend him; and his ardescription will vindicate the basest villanies, tifices tended to alienate the people from his treat all superiors with contempt, and all bene- brethren, as well as from his father.-The charfactors with ingratitude; and overbear and ter-iots and horsemen of Absalom, being a devia V. 21-33. my vow, which I have vowed unto the his city, even from Giloh, while he ofLORD in Hebron. fered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was 8 For m thy servant vowed a vow strong; for the people increased continwhile I abode at Geshur in Syria, say-ually with Absalom. ing, If the LORD shall bring me again indeed to Jerusalem, then I will serve the LORD. 9 And the king said unto him, Go in peace. So he arose, and went to Hebron. 10 But Absalom sent P spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then ye shall say, Absalom reigneth in Hebron. 11 And with Absalom went two hundred men out of Jerusalem, that were called; and they went in their simplicity, and they knew not any thing. S t 12 And Absalom sent for " Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counsellor, from tion from the divine law, should not have been allowed by David on any account: (Notes, 8:4. Deut. 17:16. 1 Kings 1.5,6.) and indeed he might easily have foreseen the consequences of Absalom's ostentation, and should at once have restrained it. V. 7-9. The era, from which the "forty years" here mentioned should be computed, cannot easily be assigned; nor are any of the conjectures of learned men on the subject fully satisfactory. The most approved seems to be, that they must be reckoned from the time of David's anointing by Samuel to the kingdom: yet that, being a private transaction, would scarcely have been referred to in a public computation; no other events are dated from that era; the subsequent history has no apparent connexion with it; and indeed it would fix Absalom's rebellion more early in David's reign, than it seems to have occurred.-It is evident that Josephus read four years, which he dates from Absalom's reconciliation; (a very proper time for his artful schemes to produce their ef fects;) and this seems to be the true reading; from which a trivial error easily made, was fallen into by some very ancient transcriber.Absalom was born at Hebron; (3:2,3.) and that gave him the pretext for asking to go thither to pay the vow, which he feigned to have made at Geshur: yet as David was made king at Hebron, (Notes, 5:1-5.) it was obvious to conclude from Absalom's whole character, that he was influenced by ambition rather than devotion. But he knew his father would be pleased to suppose that he paid any regard to religion; and therefore he cloked his intended treason and parricide, with hypocrisy. (Note, Gen. 27: 21-23.) V. 10. Spies having been previously sent into all parts of the land, to sound the inclinations of the people, and to prepare the way; when the design was ripe for execution, trumpeters were sent after them: that, when the signal was given, the spies might, through all the tribes of Israel, proclaim Absalom king, without [Practical Observations.] 13 T And there came a messenger to David, saying, "The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom. c 14 And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not else escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, d and smite the city with the edge of the sword. * e 15 And the king's servants said unto the king, Behold, thy servants are ready to do whatsoever my lord the king shall + appoint. 16 And the king went forth, and all his expressly avowing the treason, or saying whether David was dead, or had resigned, or had admitted Absalom to share the authority. Thus while David's loyal subjects would hesitate in uncertainty, Absalom's party became formidable. V. 11. Absalom went to Hebron with David's approbation, and under the pretence of religion; and these persons, (who doubtless were of chief rank at Jerusalem,) being invited to a sacred feast, accompanied him, and thus undesignedly countenanced his rebellion. By involving them in the suspicion of treason, he doubtless intended either to fix them in his interests, or to prevent David from placing confidence in them. V. 12. (Marg. Ref.) Ahithophel possessed great abilities; and he had professed much religion, and been David's counsellor and bosom friend: but he was now retired from court, perhaps in some disgust. Bath-sheba was daughter to Eliam, and Eliam was son to Ahithophel; (11: 3. 23:34.) it has therefore been thought that he was her grandfather, and resented the dishonor done to his family. He, however, readily joined Absalom's conspiracy, and would have been the chief stay of it, had not God "turned his counsel into foolishness." (Note, 31.) In many things he resembled Judas the traitor, and may even be said to have typified him. (Notes, Ps. 41:9. 55: 12-15,20,21. 109:2-20. John 13:18-30. Acts 1:16-18.) The people increased, &c.] Various motives would induce numbers to assemble; and many of them might have no previous purpose of joining in a conspiracy against David: but the feasting, the conversation, the exultations, and menaces of the leading conspirators; with the promises, and fascinating objects held forth to their vain but sanguine hopes; drew them in to commit themselves, beyond their first intention, as it is usual on such occasions.-They heedlessly approached the vortex, and were irrecoverably drawn into it. V. 13-15. It is most probable, that some of household after him: and the king left|| lord the king liveth," surely in what place ften women, which were concubines, to keep my lord the king shall be, whether in the house. death or life, even there also will thy servant be. 17 And the king went forth, and all the people after him, and tarried in a place that was far off. 18 And all his servants passed on beside him; and all the Cherethites, and all the Pelethites, and all the Gittites, six hundred men, which came after him from Gath, passed on before the king. 19 Then said the king to Ittai, the Gittite, Wherefore goest thou also with us? return to thy place, and abide with the king: for thou art a stranger, and also an exile. 20 Whereas thou camest but yesterday, should I this day make thee go up and down with us? seeing I go whither may, return thou, and take back thy brethren: mercy and truth be with thee. 21 And Ittai answered the king, and said, m As the LORD liveth, and as my *Heb. at his feet. Judg. 4:10. j 18:2. Ruth 1:11-13. 1 Sam. 25:27,42. marg. Heb. wander in going. Ps. 56:8. 59:15. Am. 8:12. Heb. 11:37,38. f 12:11. 16:21,22. 20:3. Rom. 12:2. g Ps. 3: title. 2. 66:12. Ec. 10: k 1 Sam. 23:13. 7. h 8:18. 20:7,23. 1 Sam. 30:14. 12:6. Ps.25:10. 57:3. 61:7. 85: 10. 89:14. Prov. 14:22. John 1:17. 2 Tim. 1:16-18. m 1 Sam. 20.3. 25:26. 2 Kings 2:2,4,6. 4:30. the two hundred men, who "went in their simplicity," sent David word concerning the conspiracy; and also represented it as extremely formidable. It must indeed have been expected, that the conspirators would act in the most decided manner: and though Jerusalem was a well fortified city, yet it might not be stored with a garrison or provisions for a siege. The small force, which David had with him, might be insufficient to defend it against Absalom; and perhaps he had no confidence in the inhabitants, or he was unwilling to expose that populous and sacred city to the effects of a siege. He might also deem it prudent to give the furious blaze of popular frenzy time to spend itself, hoping that numbers would soon be sensible of their folly and ingratitude. It is probable, however, that conscious guilt; the hand of God evidently lifted up against him as it had been predicted; the treason of his much beloved Absalom; and the fickleness of the people after all his past services, and successes for their benefit; damped his wonted courage, and rendered him less prompt for battle, especially in so horrid and unnatural a war. It does not however appear that his measures were impolitic, or that his friends thought them so. V. 16. David, it is probable, took his wives and children with him: but supposing that these concubines would be an additional encumbrance, and not apprehending that Absalom would injure them, he left them to take care of his house; by which inadvertency the Lord fulfilled his denunciation. (Notes, 12:11,12. 16: 20-23.) V. 17. It is highly probable, from the original, that both David and all his company went on foot, upon this distressing occasion.-After him.] 1. At his feet. 16. marg. V. 18-22. The six hundred Gittites seem to 22 And David said to Ittai, Go, and And Ittai the Gittite passed pass over. over, and all his men, and all the little ones that were with him. 23 And all the country wept with a loud voice, and all the people passed over: the king also himself passed over the brook Kidron, and all the people passed over toward the way of the P wilderness. T 24 And lo, Zadok also, and all the Levites were with him, bearing the ark of the covenant of God: and they set down the ark of God; and Abiathar went up until all the people had done passing out of the city. 25 And the king said unto Zadok, s Carry back the ark of God into the city: if I shall find favor in the eyes of n Ruth 1:16,17. Prov. 17:17. 8. 2:35. 4:2-4. 1 Chr. 6:818:24. Matt. 8:19,20. John 6: 12. Ez. 48:11. 66-69. Acts 11:23. 21:13. 2r 6. 13. Num. 4:15. 7:9. Josh. 3: Cor. 7:3. o 1 Kings 2:37. John 18:1. Cedron. p 16:2. Matt. 3:1.3. Luke 1:80. q 27,35. 8:17. 20:25. 1 Kings 1: 3,6,15-17. 4:16-18. 6:4,6. 1 Sam. 4:3-5,11. 1 Chr. 15:2. s 12:10,11. 1 Sam. 4:3-11. Jer. 7:4. have been a distinct body from the Cherethites and Pelethites: they had accompanied, or followed, David from Gath, and probably were prosely ted Philistines, commanded by Ittai of the same nation. The Cherethites and Pelethites seem likewise to have been collected from among the several districts of the Philistines, or adjacent and allied tribes. (Marg. Ref. h. Note, 8:15-18.) They were, however, numbered among David's most faithful attendants, being attached to him by esteem for his character, and love to his religion; and we may infer, that his sojourning in the land of the Philistines was over-ruled for very important good to numbers of that nation.-David was unwilling to expose Ittai and his men, who were strangers and exiles in Israel, (having been driven with their families from Gath, for their affection to David, and to his religion and people,) to so much hardship and peril, as were now before him; and he would have dismissed them with thanks and prayers for them: but their attachment to his person and cause was more strong, than that of most of the native Israelites; and they were determined to cleave to him, and serve him at all events. (Note, 1 Chr. 12:16-18.)—David called Absalom king, (19) as he had usurped the throne, and was at present in possession of regal authority. V. 23. Though the multitude favored Absalom, yet many sympathized with David.-Thu while the general cry against Jesus was, "Cru cify him, crucify him;" there were those who wept, and bewailed him. (Note, Luke 23:26-31.) All the country wept, &c.] All the land (p¬) wept; that is, the weeping was general among at a distance.-Kidron.] Our blessed Savior the inhabitants; the adherents to Absalom being passed this same brook, in his way to the garden, at or near to the mount of Olives, in the even 31 ¶ And one told David, saying, Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom. And David said, O LORD, I t Ps. 26:8. 27:4,5. 42:1,2. 43:3, | b Zech. 14:4. Luke 19:29,37. u 6:17. 7:2. v 22:20. Num. 14:8. 1 Kings 10: x Judg. 10:15. 21:37. 22:39. Acts 1:12. *Heb. going up and weeping. 19:41. c 19:4. Esth. 6:12. Jer. 14:3,4. e Ps. 126:5,6. Matt. 5:4. Rom. pray thee, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness. the k 32 And it came to pass, that when David was come to the top of the mount, where he worshipped God, behold, Hushai Archite came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his head: 33 Unto whom David said, If thou passest on with me," then thou shalt be a burden unto me: 34 But if thou return to the city, and say unto Absalom, I will be thy servant, O king; P as I have been thy father's servant hitherto, so will I now also be thy servant; then mayest thou for me defeat the counsel of Ahithophel. q 35 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. 36 Behold they have there with them their two sons, Ahimaaz Zadok's son, and Jonathan Abiathar's son; and by them ye shall send unto me every thing that ye can hear. 37 So Hushai David's friend came into the city, and " Absalom came into Jerusalem. h 16:23. 17:14,23. Job 5:12,13. i 30. 1 Kings 11:7. Luke 19:29. y 24:11. 1 Sam. 9:9. 1 Chr. 25: f 12. Ps. 3:1,2. 41:9. 55:12-1 Kings 8:44,45. Job 1:20,21. 14. Matt. 26:14,15. John 13: ing before his crucifixion. (Note, John 18:1-3, v. 1.) V. 24-29. Abiathar was the high priest: yet Zadok, of the family of Eleazar, was more noticed than he, as more favored by David; for Eli's family was gradually declining. (Notes, 1 Sam. 2:30,35,36. 1 Kings 2:26,27,35.)-The priests and Levites were generally attached to David, which was honorable to them, and shewed that religion was upon the whole in a flourishing state. The presence of the ark and the high priest would have been a comfort, and an apparent advantage to David: but the ark had been placed, and the ordinances of God established, in Zion. David was under the divine rebuke, and would express his humiliation and submission to it; and not assume, by the presence of the ark, that God was on his side, while he was suffering for his sins: (Notes, 1 Sam. 4:3-11.) but he would refer his cause to the Lord, either to bring him back to Zion in peace, or to let his unnatural and ungrateful foes prevail against him; being conscious that he deserved the worst at the hands of God, though not from them. (Marg. Ref. s-v.)--David's frame of spirit was excellent on this trying occasion: and his language beautifully humble, resigned, and pious.It is not certain whether Zadok was endued with the Spirit of prophecy, or whether he sometimes inquired of the Lord in the place of the high priest; or whether David only meant to say, that he was a person of remarkable discernment Ps. 3:3-5,7. 4:1-3. 50:15. m 1:2. 13:19. o 20. Josh. 8:2. Matt. 10:16. and penetration, who could furnish him with important and authentic information by his observance of Absalom's conduct; and one in whose faithfulness he could entirely depend. He would not therefore go to any great distance, till he heard from Zadok. V. 30. These were expressions of David's selfabasement, and sorrow for his sins, and for the miseries which he had brought on himself, on his family, and people. He thus "humbled himself under the mighty hand of God," which he saw lifted up against him: and the people joined him with the same tokens of godly sorrow and re pentance. (Marg. Ref.) V. 31. David apprehended more danger from Ahithophel's superior talents, and decisive energy of mind, than from all the courage and numbers of Absalom's followers: immediately therefore, upon hearing that he had joined the conspirators, he addressed the Lord in one short ejaculation; and it proved effectual. He did not pray against Ahithophel himself; but, "that his counsel might be turned into foolishness;" either that he might be left to give foolish counsel, or that his prudent advice might be despised and neglected as folly: and all, who heard this petition, could not but be much impressed with the answer which it shortly received. (Notes, 17:1 -14,23.)-He afterwards worshipped God in a more solemn manner with his whole company. (32) 32-37. It seems, that David entirely_con[157 fided in the fidelity and prudence of Hushai, and that his reputation as a wise counsellor was great: but either he was not able to endure the fatigues of war, or he was no soldier. David therefore stated, that in his present destitute condition, Hushai would only burden him and his friends, by attending him; and he pointed out how he might better serve his cause by remaining in Jerusalem.-Stratagems of war are lawful; for an enemy may as well be out-witted as over-powered: but the instructions given to Husbai imply a falsehood, which cannot be wholly vindicated. (Note, Josh. 8:1,2.)-The conduct of Ahithophel, in joining Absalom, would render Hushai's less suspected by the conspirators.-Ahimaaz &c. (36) Notes, 17:15-21. PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS. V. 1—12. times, when the profession of godliness is treated Little dependence can be placed on earthly prosperity; and as little can be judged of canses or characters by success, until the final event of things shall arrive. Our severest trials often come from those, in whom we most confided; and our firmest friends are sometimes raised up among persons, from whom we had the least expectations. But a truly pious man will never be entirely excluded from usefulness some individuals, wherever he abides, will have to bless God for his example, converse, and prayers.—In our most critical and important concerns, we ought not to require any thing unreasonable from our friends; or "bind heavy burdens" on new converts, lest they should be discouraged: we should be thankful for fidelity and kindness from those, who are not likely to be further serviceable to us, and recompense them with our earnest prayers: and if the mercy and truth of God be with them, and with us and ours, we shall be safe and eventually happy, however at present afflicted or separated. But that love of the brethren, which is the fruit of the Spirit of Christ, when it is vigorous, will not be restrained by the fear of hardship, danger, or even death, from rendering assistance to those in affliction.-We often in despondency think our enemies to be more numerous, and our friends fewer, than they are found upon trial: for our severest crosses are mingled with comforts, which afford us causes for thankfulness.-The ministers of God should always set an example of submission to "the powers that be," in all things lawful; and of cordial attachment and faithful adherence to those rulers, who protect and countenance them in their pious labors; and especially in those seasons, when others oppose and revile them.-It behoves us to humble ourselves before God un The ostentation of emulating or exceeding su periors in external pomp, is an evidence of a narrow mind, a weak judgment, and a depraved heart. It is, however, the common folly and ruin of indulged children, and frequently prepares the way for the most atrocious crimes. The very first appearance, therefore, of this affectation should be repressed by parents, with decision, and even with severity, if they would prevent the ruin of their families.-Those who least understand the duties, and could least endure the burdens of authority, are commonly most desirous of it. But when ambition prompts, the most self-indulgent assume the appearance of diligence; and the most haughty, that of affability and condescension: and while men aspire to the pinnacle of earthly grandeur, they, for the time, pay the most abject court to the meanest of the mob! Such fawning sons of ambition are peculiar to no age or nation: but let every wise and honest man shun them as a pestilence. They make their way by openly or obliquely traducing the characters, or censuring the measures, of their rulers; and the wisdom and perfection of an angel would be no security against their malignant insinuations. As self-love cannot but murmur at impartiality, and men are generally discontented and desirous of change, these demagogues always have proper persons on whom to practise. By joining in the groundless complaints of the disaffected, they feed their discontent; by flattering their persons and approving their cause, they humor their pride; by lavish promises (which cost and mean nothing,) of what they would do if they were in power, they excite their sanguine hopes of greater felicity; and by a voluble tongue, an insinuating address, per-der the tokens of his displeasure; and godly sorsonal accomplishments, and consummate impudence, they steal the hearts of the people, and prepare the way for popular tumults, insurrections, and rebellion. For such is human nature, that these arts and attainments go much further in gaining the favor of the multitude, than wisdom and justice, truth and piety, or the most important and long continued services! This is the old hackneyed way for men, destitute of conscience or honor, to wind themselves into important stations; and yet it is as much practised, and as little suspected, as if it were quite a new discovery!-No wise and good man, therefore, should on any account promise himself the continuance of popular favor, or be cast down if he meet with treachery and ingratitude: yet, in general, we may perceive the righteousness of God, in the basest treatment which we can receive from man; and may thence be reminded to humble ourselves before him, and to expect all our happiness from him alone.-No villany can be termed complete, which is not disguised under the mask of religion; especially at those row, confession of sin, repentance, self-denial, and self-abasement are the proper methods of seeking deliverance out of those troubles, which are evidently chastisements for sins. (Note, Is. 22:8-14.) At such a time, therefore, it is improper to buoy up our confidence by the externals of religion, which do not always imply the gracious presence of the Lord. If he pardon our sins, and then again employ us, his house and ordinances will be our comfort: and he will do us no wrong, though he lay us aside, or cut us off by death, as though he had "no delight in us." Nothing, however, must prevent our worshipping the Lord, though we have not access to his more solemn ordinances: and as afflictions abound; the fervency of our prayers should also increase.—Vain is all worldly wisdom and power against "the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man;" as in answer to a single emphatical ejaculation, "the counsel of the prudent is carried headlong," and the force of the potent is turned into perfect weakness.-Some are useful in one way, and some in another, to one com |
