Translations
Modern
Furthermore, whom should I serve if not his son? As I served in your father’s presence, so also I will serve in yours.”
Traditional
And again, whom should I serve? should I not serve in the presence of his son? as I have served in thy father’s presence, so will I be in thy presence.
Literal
And secondly, whom should I serve? Is it not before the face of his son? As I have served before the face of your father, so will I be in your presence.”
Latin
Sed ut et hoc inferam, cui ego serviturus sum? nonne filio regis? Sicut parui patri tuo, ita parebo et tibi.
Original
Hebrew
English
Furthermore, whom should I serve if not his son? As I served in your father’s presence, so also I will serve in yours.”
Notes
whom should I serve: (literally and second, to whom will I do service? Not before his son?): The unclear language continues. Hushai expressed his loyalty as a question, not a promise. He intended to serve David while tricking Absalom into believing he had switched sides. Similarly, As I served in your father’s presence, so also I will serve in yours literally means, as I served before your father, so I will [serve your father] before you.
Events
Glossary
Absalom David Gilead (Place) Hushai Kings, Books of First and Second Nathan Proverbs, Book of Samuel, Books of First and Second
Topics
Deception: Hushai Deceives Absalom Diplomacy: David, in Sending Hushai Absalom's Court Falsehood in False Professions to Absalom Hushai: David's Friend