15. Meanwhile, Absalom and all the army of Israel arrived at Jerusalem, accompanied by Ahithophel.
16. When David’s friend Hushai the Arkite arrived, he went immediately to see Absalom. “Long live the king!” he exclaimed. “Long live the king!”
17. “Is this the way you treat your friend David?” Absalom asked him. “Why aren’t you with him?”
18. “I’m here because I belong to the man who is chosen by the lord and by all the men of Israel,” Hushai replied.
19. “And anyway, why shouldn’t I serve you? Just as I was your father’s adviser, now I will be your adviser!”
20. Then Absalom turned to Ahithophel and asked him, “What should I do next?”