1. Ahithophel also said to Absalom, “Now, let me choose 12,000 men to chase David tonight.
2. I will catch him while he is tired and weak. I will frighten him, and all his people will run away. But I will kill only King David.
3. Then I will bring all the people back to you. If David is dead, all the people will come back in peace.”
4. This plan seemed good to Absalom and all the leaders of Israel.
5. But Absalom said, “Now call Hushai the Arkite. I also want to hear what he says.”
6. Hushai came to Absalom. Absalom said to Hushai, “This is the plan Ahithophel gave. Should we follow it? If not, tell us.”
7. Hushai said to Absalom, “Ahithophel’s advice is not good this time.”
8. Hushai added, “You know that your father and his men are strong men. They are as dangerous as a wild bear when something has taken its cubs. Your father is a skilled fighter. He will not stay all night with the people.
9. He is probably already hiding in a cave or some other place. If your father attacks your men first, people will hear the news and think, ‘Absalom’s followers are losing!’