Ahith'ophel. (brother of foolishness). A native of Giloh, was a privy councilor 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. Compare 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.