What does 2 Samuel 17:1 mean?

"Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:" - 2 Samuel 17:1

2 Samuel 17:1 - "Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:"

2 Samuel 17:1 - "Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:"

The verse 2 Samuel 17:1 from the King James Version of the Bible states: "Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night."

This verse is part of the larger context of the conflict between King David and his son Absalom, who has rebelled against his father and is seeking to overthrow him and take over the throne. Ahithophel was a trusted advisor of King David who defected to Absalom's side, offering his support and strategic counsel in order to help Absalom's cause.

The deeper meaning and commentary of this verse can be explored through the themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions. Ahithophel's decision to defect to Absalom's side and offer his military expertise against David is a significant act of betrayal against his former king. This betrayal is not only personal but also carries larger implications for the political and spiritual dynamics of the kingdom of Israel.

The choice to use the number twelve thousand men is also significant, as it reflects a substantial and formidable force that Ahithophel is offering to lead in pursuit of David. This demonstrates the seriousness of the conflict and the determination of Absalom and his supporters to challenge David's reign.

Additionally, the urgency and immediacy conveyed in the phrase "this night" indicate the swift and decisive nature of the planned attack. Ahithophel is proposing to move quickly and decisively, without delay, in order to catch David off guard and capitalize on the element of surprise.

From a symbolic standpoint, this verse can also be interpreted as a representation of the struggles and conflicts that occur within human relationships and the consequences of choosing sides. Ahithophel's decision to side with Absalom against David reflects the complexities of loyalty, trust, and the impact of personal ambition on one's moral and ethical choices.

In a broader theological context, this verse can also be seen as a reflection of the spiritual and moral consequences of betrayal and disloyalty. The Bible often presents narratives that illustrate the moral dilemmas faced by individuals and the impact of their choices on their relationships with God and others. Ahithophel's betrayal of David serves as a cautionary tale of the destructive nature of disloyalty and the potential repercussions that can result from forsaking one's commitments and allegiances.

Ultimately, the verse 2 Samuel 17:1 carries significant thematic, contextual, and symbolic weight within the larger narrative of King David's reign and the struggles for power and loyalty within his kingdom. It serves as a reflection of the complexities of human relationships, the moral and spiritual consequences of betrayal, and the larger theological themes of loyalty, trust, and the impact of one's choices on their relationship with God.

2 Samuel 17:1 Artwork

2 Samuel 17:1 - "Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:"

2 Samuel 17:1 - "Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:"

2 Samuel 1:17 - "¶ And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son:"

2 Samuel 1:17 - "¶ And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son:"

1 Samuel 10:17 - "¶ And Samuel called the people together unto the LORD to Mizpeh;"

1 Samuel 10:17 - "¶ And Samuel called the people together unto the LORD to Mizpeh;"

1 Samuel 2:17 - "Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD: for men abhorred the offering of the LORD."

1 Samuel 2:17 - "Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD: for men abhorred the offering of the LORD."

1 Samuel 17:2 - "And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched by the valley of Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines." Create a digital art representation of a historic scene from a religious text. Depict a diverse group of men gathering near the Elah valley, preparing for battle against an approaching enemy. The scene setting is nature-oriented, with a lush Valley of Elah in the background. The men are dressed in their traditional battle attire, with armor and weapons ready. The atmosphere should be dramatic and tense, showcasing their strong unity and resistance against the imminent enemy.

1 Samuel 17:2 - "And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched by the valley of Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines."

2 Samuel 17:26 - "So Israel and Absalom pitched in the land of Gilead."

2 Samuel 17:26 - "So Israel and Absalom pitched in the land of Gilead."

1 Samuel 17:14 - "And David was the youngest: and the three eldest followed Saul." Visualize a scene inspired by 1 Samuel 17:14 from the Bible, where David, the youngest, is standing, while his three elder brothers are following a figure of authority, all depicted in a style evocative of digital art. David should be portrayed as a young, endowed figure with an innocent expression whereas his siblings are characterized by their majestic stature and loyal obedience. The figure of authority, although his back is turned towards the viewer, emanates an aura of charismatic leadership, symbolizing Saul. This interpretation should primarily employ bright, vibrant colors.

1 Samuel 17:14 - "And David was the youngest: and the three eldest followed Saul."

2 Samuel 17:4 - "And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel." A digital art interpretation of a scene inspired by the biblical passage 2 Samuel 17:4. It shows a group of elders representing different descents such as Caucasian, Hispanic, and Middle-Eastern, gathered in a meeting. Absalom, a strong and tall figure with Black descent, is shown at the center, listening intently to the discussion. The atmosphere is respectful and solemn, capturing the gravity of the moment discussed in the scripture.

2 Samuel 17:4 - "And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel."

1 Samuel 17:56 - "And the king said, Enquire thou whose son the stripling is." Create a conceptual digital art representation of a scene inspired by the biblical verse 1 Samuel 17:56 - 'And the king said, Enquire thou whose son the stripling is.' The focus should be on the regal authority figure seeking information, and a youthful individual who is the subject of the king's intrigue. Set in a grand hall with the king on his throne and a courtier nearby, ready to fulfill the king's order. The 'stripling' is in the background, standing humbly yet boldly, while the rest of the court looks on with curiosity.

1 Samuel 17:56 - "And the king said, Enquire thou whose son the stripling is."

2 Samuel 2:17 - "And there was a very sore battle that day; and Abner was beaten, and the men of Israel, before the servants of David." A digitally designed illustration exhibiting a severe battle scene from a biblical event. The image should depict soldiers from Israel, who are shown as defeated, and the servants of David, who stand victorious. The central figure, Abner, stands out as having suffered a significant defeat. The environment is that of an ancient battlefield, with signs of devastation and the aftermath of fierce combat. Use vibrant colors to bring this inspired narrative to life.

2 Samuel 2:17 - "And there was a very sore battle that day; and Abner was beaten, and the men of Israel, before the servants of David."

1 Samuel 17:29 - "And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause?" A portrayal of an ancient dialogue scene. The focus is on a young male Middle Eastern character, looking determined and passionate as he speaks. He is in traditional Middle Eastern clothing. The other listener characters are also Middle Eastern, dressed similarly. Their expressions are dramatic, conveying surprise and confusion. The scene is set in a desert landscape, with rolling sand dunes and a cloudless, wide-open sky. The medium should exhibit a vibrant color palette, slick, clean lines, generous usage of geometric shapes and patterns, reminiscent of digital art aesthetics.

1 Samuel 17:29 - "And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause?"

1 Samuel 17:53 - "And the children of Israel returned from chasing after the Philistines, and they spoiled their tents." Please depict a scene from the biblical era where the children of Israel, featuring a diverse representation of men and women from different descents such as Hispanic, Middle-Eastern, Black, South Asian, and White, are returning victoriously from a battle. They're in pursuit of the Philistines, who are also of diverse descent. In the backdrop, there lie abandoned and ransacked tents previously belonging to the Philistines. The whole scene is set in an open desert with distant mountains. This art should be in a digital format, showcasing vibrant colors and a high level of detail.

1 Samuel 17:53 - "And the children of Israel returned from chasing after the Philistines, and they spoiled their tents."

1 Samuel 17:21 - "For Israel and the Philistines had put the battle in array, army against army." Render a digital art representation of a scene inspired by 1 Samuel 17:21. Visualize two distinct armies that are set against one another in line with the accounts from the Biblical narrative of Israel and the Philistines. The armies should depict ancient military attires and weaponry, maintaining a sense of historical authenticity. The battlefield should stretch out into the distance, filled with soldiers ready for combat, their foot soldiers at the front and charioteers at the back. The atmosphere should be tense, projecting the imminent clash, with ominous clouds gather overhead.

1 Samuel 17:21 - "For Israel and the Philistines had put the battle in array, army against army."

1 Samuel 8:17 - "He will take the tenth of your sheep: and ye shall be his servants."

1 Samuel 8:17 - "He will take the tenth of your sheep: and ye shall be his servants."

1 Samuel 17:19 - "Now Saul, and they, and all the men of Israel, were in the valley of Elah, fighting with the Philistines." A biblical scene inspired by 1 Samuel 17:19. On one side of the valley of Elah, there's an ancient army of diverse men: Caucasian, Hispanic, Black, Middle-Eastern, South Asian, and White, all clad in ancient Israelite armor. They are preparing to battle against an army of Philistines positioned on the opposite side of the valley. The arid landscape of the valley stretches between the two forces, and nerves are palpable. A strong figure, presumably Saul, is standing in the forefront, solemn and prepared for battle. The chosen medium is digital art, with an array of vibrant colors and sharp lines to bring this scene to life.

1 Samuel 17:19 - "Now Saul, and they, and all the men of Israel, were in the valley of Elah, fighting with the Philistines."

1 Samuel 17:16 - "And the Philistine drew near morning and evening, and presented himself forty days."

1 Samuel 17:16 - "And the Philistine drew near morning and evening, and presented himself forty days."

2 Samuel 8:17 - "And Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, were the priests; and Seraiah was the scribe;"

2 Samuel 8:17 - "And Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, were the priests; and Seraiah was the scribe;"

2 Samuel 17:7 - "And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given is not good at this time." A vivid illustration based on a biblical scene: 2 Samuel 17:7. Capture the moment as Hushai speaks to Absalom, advising him that the counsel of Ahithophel is not good at this time. Picture it with the intensity of a historic biblical scene, representing the antiquity and the profoundness of the situation. The art should have clear and bright textures resembling digital artistry, with a backdrop filled with ancient architecture and costumes fitting for the period.

2 Samuel 17:7 - "And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given is not good at this time."

1 Samuel 2:26 - "And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men." Visualize an interpretive digital art scene that represents the biblical scripture from 1 Samuel 2:26, 'And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men.' The scene should represent Samuel as a young boy, growing and maturing under both divine and human admiration. Show symbolism for the Lord's favour - such as a divine ethereal glow or a protective hand from the heavens - and men's respect - represented by faces of men from different descents demonstrating admiration or respect towards Samuel.

1 Samuel 2:26 - "And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men."

1 Samuel 2:18 - "¶ But Samuel ministered before the LORD, being a child, girded with a linen ephod." Illustrate an image based on the biblical scene from 1 Samuel 2:18. Depict a young boy named Samuel serving before the LORD, dressed in a linen ephod. This scene should be rendered using modern digital art techniques, showing vibrant colors and bold lines. Focus on Samuel's youthful innocence and dedication as he performs his duties, with the aura of divine presence subtly suggested in the background.

1 Samuel 2:18 - "¶ But Samuel ministered before the LORD, being a child, girded with a linen ephod."

1 Samuel 9:17 - "And when Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said unto him, Behold the man whom I spake to thee of! this same shall reign over my people." Visual representation of a biblical scene from the book of 1 Samuel 9:17. The scene involves two key figures, Samuel and Saul. Samuel, a senior man of Middle-Eastern descent with flowing white hair and beard, gazes upon a younger Saul, a tall man of Hebrew descent with dark hair and piercing eyes dressed in simple attire. Their setting is a barren desert landscape, embodying the simplicity and harshness of their time. The sky above swirls with divine indication, suggesting direct dialogue between Samuel and the LORD. Capture the scene in the style of digital art.

1 Samuel 9:17 - "And when Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said unto him, Behold the man whom I spake to thee of! this same shall reign over my people."

2 Samuel 15:17 - "And the king went forth, and all the people after him, and tarried in a place that was far off."

2 Samuel 15:17 - "And the king went forth, and all the people after him, and tarried in a place that was far off."

1 Samuel 17:15 - "But David went and returned from Saul to feed his father's sheep at Beth-lehem." Illustration of a scene reminiscent of the biblical description in 1 Samuel 17:15 - "But David went and returned from Saul to feed his father's sheep at Beth-lehem." The setting is a rustic pastoral landscape with a young shepherd, assuming the role of David, returning from what appears to be a journey. He's in the midst of a flock of sheep, tending to them with care. In the background, the ancient city of Bethlehem is visible. The entire image is rendered with distinct, clear lines, bright colors, and a level of detail resemblance to digital artwork.

1 Samuel 17:15 - "But David went and returned from Saul to feed his father's sheep at Beth-lehem."

2 Samuel 17:17 - "Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by En-rogel; for they might not be seen to come into the city: and a wench went and told them; and they went and told king David." Visualize this scene: A biblical setting by the landmark of En-rogel. Jonathan and Ahimaaz, two figures from the Bible, are hidden away, careful not to enter the city and be noticed. A woman of the period comes to report to them. After receiving the news, they hurry off to relay it to King David. All this is happening under the vast canopy of the sky. The art style is digital, focusing on clarity and depth. The environment is richly colored, with special attention to the diverse hues of the ancient Middle Eastern surroundings.

2 Samuel 17:17 - "Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by En-rogel; for they might not be seen to come into the city: and a wench went and told them; and they went and told king David."

2 Samuel 16:17 - "And Absalom said to Hushai, Is this thy kindness to thy friend? why wentest thou not with thy friend?" Depict a scene from ancient times, heavily inspired by a biblical narrative. The two main characters are Absalom and Hushai, characters from the Old Testament, in midst of a vital discussion characterized by confusion and questioning. One of them, Absalom, is expressing his bafflement towards Hushai, asking him about his loyalty towards his friend. The setting should reflect the time period, complete with the appropriate attire, architectural structures, and natural-elements that chronicle an older era. The style should exemplify the fine details, radiant color spectrum, and precision typical of digital art.

2 Samuel 16:17 - "And Absalom said to Hushai, Is this thy kindness to thy friend? why wentest thou not with thy friend?"

2 Samuel 17:24 - "Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, he and all the men of Israel with him." Illustrate a biblical scene inspired by the quote from 2 Samuel 17:24 - 'Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, he and all the men of Israel with him.' The image should depict a group of men traversing the river Jordan, guided by the figures of David and Absalom. Reflect the artistic themes from the biblical era incorporating the essence of stained glass art of the Gothic Era in the details but with a digital art execution. Capture the dramatic effect typical of religious scenes but steer clear of any specific religious symbolisms to keep the image open for interpretation.

2 Samuel 17:24 - "Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, he and all the men of Israel with him."

1 Samuel 1:17 - "Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him." An illustrative digital art representation of the biblical scene from 1 Samuel 1:17. In the scene, Eli, an ancient Hebrew sage, dressed in traditional attire of that era, is seen compassionately addressing a person. His gesture bespeaks his words, 'Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him.' The surrounding environment reflects the antiquity and spiritual sanctity of the ancient Israelite culture.

1 Samuel 1:17 - "Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him."

1 Samuel 17:49 – "David reached into his bag and took out a stone; he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead."

1 Samuel 17:49 – "David reached into his bag and took out a stone; he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead."

1 Samuel 17:27 - "And the people answered him after this manner, saying, So shall it be done to the man that killeth him." Depict a scene inspired by the biblical verse from 1 Samuel 17:27. The scene should encompass a group of individuals engaging in a congenial discussion, reflecting their reaction to someone emerging as a vanquisher. Present this scene in the style of digital art.

1 Samuel 17:27 - "And the people answered him after this manner, saying, So shall it be done to the man that killeth him."

2 Samuel 7:17 - "According to all these words, and according to all this vision, so did Nathan speak unto David."

2 Samuel 7:17 - "According to all these words, and according to all this vision, so did Nathan speak unto David."