2-я Царств 17:23

It is still further stated in conclusion, that when Ahithophel saw that his advice was not carried out, he saddled his ass and returned to his home, and there set his house in order and hanged himself, because he could foresee that Absalom would lose his cause through not taking his advice, and it would then be all over with himself. Thus was David's prayer (Sa2 15:31) fulfilled.

The contest between David and Absalom is now hasting towards a crisis. It must be determined by the sword, and preparation is made accordingly in this chapter. I. Absalom calls a council of war, in which Ahithophel urges despatch (Sa2 17:1-4), but Hushai recommends deliberation (Sa2 17:5-13); and Hushai's counsel is agreed to (Sa2 17:14), for vexation at which Ahithophel hangs himself (Sa2 17:23). II. Secret intelligence is sent to David (but with much difficultly) of their proceedings (Sa2 17:15-21). III. David marches to the other side Jordan (Sa2 17:22-24), and there his camp is victualled by some of his friends in that country (Sa2 17:27-29). IV. Absalom and his forces march after him into the land of Gilead on the other side Jordan (Sa2 17:25, Sa2 17:26). There we shall, in the next chapter, find the cause decided by a battle: hitherto, every thing has looked black upon poor David, but now the day of his deliverance begins to dawn.

17:23 hanged himself: Ahithophel foresaw David’s victory and Absalom’s undoing, and he preferred to die by his own hand rather than by David’s.