29. Zadok and Abiathar took the sacred chest back into Jerusalem and stayed there.
30. David went on up the slope of the Mount of Olives. He was barefoot and crying, and he covered his head to show his sorrow. Everyone with him was crying, and they covered their heads too.
31. Someone told David, “Ahithophel is helping Absalom plot against you!”David said, “Please, Lord, keep Ahithophel's plans from working!”
32. When David reached the top of the Mount of Olives, he met Hushai the Archite at a place of worship. Hushai's robe was torn, and dust was on his head.
33. David told him:If you come with me, you might slow us down.
34. Go back into the city and tell Absalom, “Your Majesty, I am your servant. I will serve you now, just as I served your father in the past.”Hushai, if you do that, you can help me ruin Ahithophel's plans.
35. Zadok and Abiathar the priests will be there with you, and you can tell them everything you hear in the palace.