2 Samuel 16:1-23

Soon after passing the summit of the Mt. of Olives David is met by Ziba, the servant of Meri-baal (2 Samuel 4:4), with a present of two asses laden with provisions. Ziba, representing that Meri-baal has turned traitor, obtains a grant of his property.

2 Samuel 16:5. At Bahurim, somewhere on the way to the Jordan, Shimei, a kinsman of Saul, follows David, uttering curses and throwing stones. David refuses to retaliate, feeling that his sufferings may move Yahweh to pity him.

2 Samuel 16:14. It is probable that the name of some place has dropped out.

1 Samuel 16:15 to 1 Samuel 17:14. Absalom Comes to Jerusalem. Ahithophel and Hushai (J).

2 Samuel 16:15. Hushai joins Absalom. On the advice of Ahithophel, Absalom takes over his father's harem (2 Samuel 3:7 *).