AHITHOPHEL (lit. Brother of Foolishness, i.e., foolish), the very singular name of one of the sagest politicians in Old Testament history. In regard to his family relationships it is almost beyond doubt that he was the grandfather of Bathsheba, and it has been suggested as probable that he was first introduced at court through this connection. He was one of David’s most trusted counsellors, and his defection to the cause of Absalom was a severe blow to the king, who prayed that God would bring his counsel to “foolishness,” probably alluding to his name. David’s grief at the desertion is expressed in Ps. xli. 9, lv. 12-14. Ahithophel's advice was at first acceptable to Absalom’s party, and probably laid down the policy which alone was likely to be successful; but Hushai’s counsel of delay, given in the secret interest of David, was ultimately adopted. Ahithophel’s political foresight enabled him to see that this resolution would prove fatal to the rebel cause, and he at once returned to his home at Giloh, “put his household in order, and hanged himself.” This is the only case of deliberate suicide that is mentioned in the Old Testament.

a native of Giloh, who, after having been David’s counsellor, joined in the rebellion of Absalom, and assisted him with his advice. Hushai, the friend of David, was employed to counteract the counsels of Ahithophel, and to deprive Absalom, under a pretence of serving him, of the advantage that was likely to result from the measures which he proposed. One of these measures was calculated to render David irreconcilable, and was immediately adopted; and the other to secure, or to slay him. Before the last counsel was followed, Hushai’s advice was desired; and he recommended their assembling together the whole force of Israel, putting Absalom at their head, and overwhelming David by their number. The treacherous counsel of Hushai was preferred to that of Ahithophel; with which the latter being disgusted he hastened to his house at Giloh, where he put an end to his life. He probably foresaw Absalom’s defeat, and dreaded the punishment which would be inflicted on himself as a traitor, when David was resettled on the throne. A. M. 2981. B. C. 1023. 2 Sam. xv, xvii.