10. But he also sent spies to all the tribes of Israel. They told the people, “When you hear the trumpet, say, ‘Absalom is king in Hebron!’”
11. Absalom invited 200 men to go with him. They left Jerusalem with him, but they did not know what he was planning.
12. Ahithophel was one of David’s advisors. He was from the town of Giloh. While Absalom was offering sacrifices, he invited Ahithophel to join. Absalom’s plans were working very well and more and more people began to support him.
13. A man came in to tell the news to David. The man said, “The people of Israel are beginning to follow Absalom.”
14. Then David said to all of his officers who were still in Jerusalem with him, “Come on, we cannot let him trap us here in Jerusalem. Hurry up, before he catches us. He will destroy us all, and Jerusalem will be destroyed in the battle.”
15. The king’s officers told him, “We will do whatever you tell us.”