As expected, Ahithophel gives Absalom some shrewd advice (16:15–23), recommending that he sleep with his father’s concubines. Usually a king’s concubines belonged to his successor, so by this action Absalom strongly asserts his kingship. At the same time he states his complete contempt for his father. By sleeping with the concubines in a tent pitched on the roof, he also ensures that all Israel knows what he is doing.

Given the skill and the reputation of Ahithophel, it comes as a shock to see his advice rejected in 17:1–14. Ahithophel recommends that Absalom pursue David immediately, before he has a chance to escape very far or to organize his forces. If he had killed David quickly, then David’s supporters would likely have paid allegiance to Absalom and the nation would not have been divi…