Then said Absalom, Call now Hushai the Archite also, and let us hear likewise what he saith.

2 SAMUEL 17:5KJV
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2 Samuel 17:5 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 17:5 mean?

2 Samuel 17:5 shows Absalom asking for Hushai the Archite to be called in so he can also hear Hushai’s advice. Absalom wants to consider more than one viewpoint before making a decision about his next move.

Absalom, who is leading a rebellion against his father David, has just listened to Ahithophel’s counsel about how to pursue David. Instead of acting immediately, Absalom asks for Hushai, another advisor, to share his thoughts as well. This moment is important because it sets up a choice between two different strategies, and it shows Absalom’s desire to weigh his options carefully.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 17:5

  • קרא (qara, "Call"): This word means to summon or invite someone. Absalom is not just asking for Hushai’s presence; he is formally requesting his input as part of a council.
  • שמע (shama, "hear"): This word often means more than just listening; it carries the sense of paying attention and considering what is said. Absalom is signaling that Hushai’s opinion matters in the decision-making process.

Why 2 Samuel 17:5 matters

  • The verse highlights Absalom’s leadership style—he is not acting impulsively but is seeking multiple perspectives before making a critical decision.
  • This request for Hushai’s advice becomes a turning point in the story, as Hushai’s counsel will ultimately influence Absalom’s actions and the outcome of the rebellion.
  • The verse shows the political tension and uncertainty in Absalom’s camp, as he is unsure which advisor to trust, reflecting the high stakes of the situation.

Where else these words appear

“Archite” Hebrew H757 · used in 6 verses

  • Joshua 16:2 And goeth out from Bethel to Luz, and passeth along unto the borders of Archi to Ataroth,
  • 2 Samuel 15:32 And it came to pass, that when David was come to the top of the mount, where he worshipped God, behold, Hushai the Archite came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his head:
  • 2 Samuel 17:14 And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom.

“Hushai” Hebrew H2365 · used in 13 verses

  • 2 Samuel 15:32 And it came to pass, that when David was come to the top of the mount, where he worshipped God, behold, Hushai the Archite came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his head:
  • 2 Samuel 16:18 And Hushai said unto Absalom, Nay; but whom the LORD, and this people, and all the men of Israel, choose, his will I be, and with him will I abide.
  • 2 Samuel 17:14 And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom.

“Absalom” Hebrew H53 · used in 92 verses

  • 2 Samuel 3:3 And his second, Chileab, of Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite; and the third, Absalom the son of Maacah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur;
  • 2 Samuel 15:1 And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him.
  • 2 Samuel 17:18 Nevertheless a lad saw them, and told Absalom: but they went both of them away quickly, and came to a man's house in Bahurim, which had a well in his court; whither they went down.