King James Bible Dictionary

Brother of insipidity or impiety, a man greatly renowned for his sagacity among the Jews. At the time of Absalom's revolt he deserted David (Psalms 41:9; 55:12-14) and espoused the cause of Absalom (2 Samuel 15:12). David sent his old friend Hushai back to Absalom, in order that he might counteract the counsel of Ahithophel (2 Samuel 15:31-37). This end was so far gained that Ahithophel saw he had no longer any influence, and accordingly he at once left the camp of Absalom and returned to Giloh, his native place, where, after arranging his wordly affairs, he hanged himself, and was buried in the sepulchre of his fathers (2 Samuel 17:1-23). He was the type of Judas (Psalms 41:9).

brother of ruin or folly

One of David's counsellors
2 Samuel 15:12; 1 Chronicles 27:33

Joins Absalom
2 Samuel 15:31; 2 Samuel 15:34; 2 Samuel 16:15; 2 Samuel 16:20-23; 2 Samuel 17:1-23

Probably referred to by David in Psalm 55,12-14
Psalms 55:12-14

Suicide of
2 Samuel 17:1-14; 2 Samuel 17:23

(brother of foolishness), a native of Giloh, was a privy councillor of David, whose wisdom was highly esteemed, though his name had an exactly opposite signification. (2 Samuel 16:23) (B.C. 1055-1023.) He was the grandfather of Bathsheba. Comp. (2 Samuel 11:3) with 2 Samuel 23:34 Ahithophel joined the conspiracy of Absalom against David, and persuaded him to take possession of the royal harem, (2 Samuel 16:21) and recommended an immediate pursuit of David. His advice was wise; but Hushai advised otherwise. When Ahithophel saw that Hushai's advice prevailed, he despaired of success, and returning to his own home "put his household in order and hanged himself." (2 Samuel 17:1-23)