Hushai's Counsel

Ahithophel told Absalom his plan. He would take twelve thousand men. They would chase David that night while he was tired. Absalom and the elders liked this plan. But Absalom also called Hushai.

Hushai said this plan was not good. He said David and his men were mighty. They were angry like a bear robbed of her cubs. He said to gather all Israel first. Absalom and his men said Hushai's plan was better. The Bible says the Lord had planned to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel.

Hushai sent word by two young men, Jonathan and Ahimaaz. They hid in a well. A woman covered it with grain. Then they warned David. By morning, all had crossed the Jordan. At Mahanaim, three men brought food. The people were hungry, weary, and thirsty in the wilderness.