2 Samuel 17 (See our study of 2 Samuel for information on David’s mole, Hushai)
This passage can be seen through the activity of Hushai. He advises Absalom on how to capture David against the sound advice of Ahithophel (1-14) and advises David on how to escape (15-29).
If Absalom listened to Ahithophel and pursued David, David would have been captured and killed. Hushai knew this and went into immediate action. He convinced Absalom, by the power of God, to disregard Ahithophel although he was considered to be God’s prophet (see previous study in 2 Samuel 16). When Absalom listened to Hushai’s advice over Ahithophel, Ahithophel knew he was a doomed man. He knows Hushai’s advice would fail, and Absalom would be capture or killed, and that he would be executed. This is why he decided to commit suicide (23). See our study of Psalm 55.
There are spies throughout the land seeking to help David and hurt David. He escapes to safety. A note of interest is where David was when these betrayals took place. He was in Jerusalem, started toward the Mount of Olives, and left via the Kidron and Hinnom Valleys. This was the same path Jesus took when He was to be betrayed by Judas. For Bahurim see our study in 2 Samuel 16.
If there is a request for a study on suicide, I will gladly post one. Please let me know.
Absalom, like Saul, wanted to hurt and kill David, as seen in this chapter. But God was continually with David. In this chapter, David was able to cross the Jordan reach safety and fine people to provide him with shelter and food. Though enemies may attack and pursue, we will always overcome them and be safe when God is on our side.