Translations
Modern
Ahithophel replied, “Sleep with your father’s concubines, whom he has left to take care of the palace. When all Israel hears that you have become a stench to your father, then the hands of all who are with you will be strengthened.”
Traditional
And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto thy father’s concubines, which he hath left to keep the house; and all Israel shall hear that thou art abhorred of thy father: then shall the hands of all that are with thee be strong.
Literal
And Ahithophel said to Absalom, “Go in to the concubines of your father, whom he has left to keep the house. And all Israel will hear that you are abhorred by your father, and the hands of all who are with you will be strengthened.”
Latin
Et ait Achitophel ad Absalom: Ingredere ad concubinas patris tui, quas dimisit ad custodiendam domum: ut cum audierit omnis Israël quod fœdaveris patrem tuum, roborentur tecum manus eorum.
Original
Hebrew
English
Ahithophel replied, “Sleep with your father’s concubines, whom he has left to take care of the palace. When all Israel hears that you have become a stench to your father, then the hands of all who are with you will be strengthened.”
Notes
Sleep with your father's concubines: A usurper (someone who takes power by force) would take a previous ruler's harem to strengthen his claim to the throne (see 2 Samuel 3:7). Absalom's action violated Deuteronomy 22:30.
Events
People
Absalom: David's rebellious son who tried to usurp the throne Ahithophel: David's counselor who joined Absalom's rebellion, later committed suicide Israel: Patriarch, son of Isaac, father of twelve tribes
Glossary
Absalom Ahithophel David Gilead (Place) Hushai Kings, Books of First and Second Nathan Samuel, Books of First and Second
Topics
Ahithophel: Joins Absalom Incest: Absalom Reverence for Kings