Old Testament
2 Samuel 15:31
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then someone told David, "Ahithophel has joined the conspirators with Absalom." David prayed, "LORD, please turn Ahithophel's advice into foolishness."
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And one told David, saying, Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom. And David said, O LORD, I pray thee, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness.
What 2 Samuel 15:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
David received alarming news that Ahithophel, his trusted advisor, had sided with his son Absalom in a rebellion. This betrayal struck deep, as Ahithophel was known for his wise counsel. In response, David turned to God in prayer, asking for help. He sought divine intervention to make Ahithophel's advice seem foolish. This moment highlights David's reliance on God during a time of crisis. It shows that even a king, faced with betrayal, can feel vulnerable and powerless. David's prayer reflects his faith and trust in God's ability to change circumstances. It reminds us that in our struggles, we can seek God's guidance and wisdom to navigate difficult situations. David's plea is a powerful example of turning to God when faced with challenges, trusting that He can alter the course of events for our good. This story encourages us to maintain our faith, even when betrayal and conflict arise in our lives, knowing that God is always listening and can intervene on our behalf.
How to apply 2 Samuel 15:31 to your life
When faced with betrayal or difficult decisions, remember to seek God's guidance through prayer. Trust that He can provide clarity and wisdom in confusing situations. Just as David did, turn to God for help and believe in His ability to change outcomes for the better. Your faith can make a difference in your circumstances and decisions. Stay connected to God in challenging times, and He will guide you through them with His wisdom.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from David's story: Absalom's Rebellion (2 Samuel 15:1–37)
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David
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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At a Glance — the Book of 2 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Samuel 15:31 teach about betrayal?
2 Samuel 15:31 illustrates the deep pain of betrayal, especially when it comes from someone trusted like Ahithophel. David's reaction shows that betrayal can lead to feelings of vulnerability, even for a king. This verse reminds us that betrayal is a part of life, but it also emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and strength during such difficult times.
How did David respond to the news of Ahithophel's betrayal?
Upon learning that Ahithophel had joined Absalom's conspiracy, David immediately turned to prayer. He asked God to turn Ahithophel's wise counsel into foolishness. This response highlights David's reliance on God in moments of crisis, showing that prayer is a powerful tool for seeking divine intervention when faced with challenges.
What can we learn from David's prayer in this verse?
David's prayer in 2 Samuel 15:31 teaches us the importance of seeking God's help in difficult situations. It shows that we can bring our concerns to God and ask for His intervention. David's plea reflects a deep faith in God's ability to change circumstances, encouraging us to trust in His wisdom and guidance when we face our own challenges.
Why is Ahithophel's counsel considered wise?
Ahithophel was renowned for his wisdom and strategic advice, making him a highly valued advisor to David. His counsel was often sought in critical situations, which is why his betrayal was particularly devastating for David. The verse highlights the stark contrast between Ahithophel's previous loyalty and his current disloyalty, emphasizing the weight of his influence.
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