10. And the king said, What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? so let him curse, because the LORD has said unto him, Curse David. Who shall then say, Why have you done so?
11. And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son, who came forth of my own body, seeks my life: how much more now may this Benjamite do it? let him alone, and let him curse; for the LORD has bidden him.
12. It may be that the LORD will look on my affliction, and that the LORD will repay me good for his cursing this day.
13. And as David and his men went by the way, Shimei went along on the hill's side opposite him, and cursed as he went, and threw stones at him, and cast dust.
14. And the king, and all the people that were with him, became weary, and refreshed themselves there.
15. And Absalom, and all the people the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him.
16. And it came to pass, when Hushai the Archite, David's friend, was come unto Absalom, that Hushai said unto Absalom, God save the king, God save the king.
17. And Absalom said to Hushai, Is this your kindness to your friend? why went you not with your friend?
18. And Hushai said unto Absalom, Nay; but whom the LORD, and this people, and all the men of Israel, choose, his will I be, and with him will I abide.
19. And again, whom should I serve? should I not serve in the presence of his son? as I have served in your father's presence, so will I be in your presence.
20. Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, Give counsel among you what we shall do.
21. And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto your father's concubines, which he has left to keep the house; and all Israel shall hear that you are abhorred by your father: then shall the hands of all that are with you be strong.
22. So they spread Absalom a tent upon the top of the house; and Absalom went in unto his father's concubines in the sight of all Israel.