4 This plan seemed good to Absalom and to all the elders of Israel.
4 And the advice seemed right in the eyes of Absalom and all the elders of Israel.
4 Absalom thought it was an excellent strategy, and all the elders of Israel agreed.
4 And the saying pleased Absalom and all the elders of Israel.
4 This plan seemed good to Absalom and to all the elders of Israel.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:4
Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:1-21
(Read 2 Samuel 17:1-21)
Here was a wonderful effect of Divine Providence blinding Absalom's mind and influencing his heart, that he could not rest in Ahithophel's counsel, and that he should desire Hushai's advice. But there is no contending with that God who can arm a man against himself, and destroy him by his own mistakes and passions. Ahithophel's former counsel was followed, for God intended to correct David; but his latter counsel was not followed, for God meant not to destroy him. He can overrule all counsels. Whatever wisdom or help any man employs or affords, the success is from God alone, who will not let his people perish.