Absalom asks his advisors what he should do next, now that he’s in control of Jerusalem. The Hebrew word for "counsel" is etsah, which means advice or guidance, often with the sense of strategic planning. Absalom is at a crossroads and needs to make decisions that will shape his future as king.

This verse pushes back against the idea that leaders always know what to do. Even those in power need help and advice, and sometimes the advice they get can make or break them. It’s a moment of vulnerability for Absalom, even as he sits on the throne.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by choices or unsure of your next move, this verse is a reminder that it’s normal to ask for help. The challenge is knowing which advice to trust, and being aware that not all counsel leads to good outcomes.