Definition: And Ahithophel [was] the king’s counseller: and Hushai the Archite [was] the king’s companion:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 27:33. It’s a fascinating and slightly mysterious passage about a powerful and influential figure in ancient Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a very high-ranking official named Ahithophel, who was the chief advisor to King David. And his companion, Hushai, was also a significant advisor. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And Ahithophel was the king’s counselor:” This means Ahithophel held a very important position – he was advising David on matters of state, strategy, and policy. He was essentially his right-hand man in the government. Think of him as David's chief strategist and advisor. “and Hushai the Archite [was] the king’s companion:” This is where it gets a bit more intriguing. “Archite” means architect – someone who designs and plans things. So, Hushai was a crucial part of David’s inner circle, likely involved in overseeing important projects, building things, or guiding his decisions. He was essentially David’s closest confidant and partner. The Significance & What it Suggests: Power and Influence: This verse highlights the immense power and influence these individuals held within the early Kingdom of Israel. They weren't just simple officials; they were key players in the decision-making process. Council & Advice: The fact that Ahithophel was a counselor suggests he had significant authority to shape David’s course of action. A Network of Advisors: It indicates a well-established system of advisors, with multiple people holding positions of power and influence. This could have been a way for David to get input from different perspectives before making important decisions. Overall Interpretation: This verse paints a picture of a kingdom where leadership wasn't just about the King, but also about a complex web of advisors and collaborators. It suggests a system designed to ensure wise decision-making and effective governance. Important Note: The exact meaning and purpose of this verse are debated among biblical scholars. It’s a piece of history that is open to interpretation. However, it does suggest a level of importance and structure within the early Kingdom of Israel. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you'd like me to answer? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of the verse in more detail? Discuss the possible reasons why these figures were important?