And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counsellor, from his city, [even] from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.
Ver. 12. And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite.] Who doubtless of all his virtues made best vice of his dissimulation; as our historian saith of that Earl of Warwick in Edward VI's days. See on 2 Samuel 15:10. Some think that Ahithophel joined with Absalom against David, in revenge of the abuse done by him to Bathsheba, - who is supposed to be Ahithophel's grand-daughter, - and the murdering of Uriah, her husband.
For the people increased continually with Absalom.] Bewitched by his flatteries, as 2 Samuel 15:6, affecting novelties, αει γαρ το παρον βαρυ, a and incensed by Absalom's boutefeaus, whose work was to black and blast good David and his government; but above all, God's holy hand was in it for the chastising of David, according to what had been forethreatened.
a Thucyd.