Question 1

What does 2 Samuel 16:21 mean?

Accepted Answer

2 Samuel 16:21 describes Ahithophel advising Absalom to sleep with King David’s concubines, who had been left behind to take care of the palace. Ahithophel says this act will show all Israel that Absalom has completely broken with his father, David, and will strengthen the resolve of Absalom’s supporters. In this verse, Ahithophel, who was once David’s trusted counselor but now sides with Absalom, gives advice meant to make Absalom’s rebellion irreversible. By taking David’s concubines, Absalom would publicly shame his father and make reconciliation impossible. This act was a bold and shocking way to show the nation that Absalom was now claiming the throne for himself.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 16:21

Accepted Answer

"Go in" (בּוֹא, bo’): This Hebrew word is often used as a polite way to refer to sexual relations. Here, it makes clear the nature of Ahithophel’s advice, which was not just about taking over the palace but making a public statement. "Concubines" (פִּילֶגֶשׁ, pilegesh): This word refers to secondary wives or women of lower status than the queen. In ancient Israel, taking a king’s concubines was a symbolic act of seizing his authority. "Abhorred" (נִבְעַר, nib’ar): This word means to be utterly despised or rejected. Ahithophel’s advice was meant to make it clear to everyone that there was no going back in the relationship between Absalom and David. "Hands...be strong" (יָדַיִם...חָזַק, yadayim...chazaq): This phrase means to be encouraged or made bold. Ahithophel’s plan was to give Absalom’s followers confidence that their cause was now the dominant one.

Question 3

Why 2 Samuel 16:21 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse shows how political power struggles in ancient Israel could involve deeply personal and public acts, not just military action. Understanding the symbolism of taking a king’s concubines helps explain why this advice was so shocking and why it would make reconciliation between David and Absalom impossible. The verse highlights Ahithophel’s cunning and the seriousness of Absalom’s rebellion, setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow in the story.

2 Samuel 16:21 (KJV)