And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counselor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he was offering the sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong, for the people increased continually with Absalom.

And the counsel of Ahithophel, which he gave in those days, was as if a man inquired at the oracle of God; so was all the counsel of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom.

And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his donkey, and arose, and got home to his city, and set his house in order, and hanged himself. And he died, and was buried in the sepulcher of his father.

Hushai

And it came to pass, that, when David came to the top [of the ascent], where God was worshipped, behold, Hushai the Archite came to meet him with his coat torn, and dirt upon his head.

And it came to pass, when Hushai the Archite, David's friend, came to Absalom, that Hushai said to Absalom, Live, O king. Live, O king.

Companion

And Absalom said to Hushai, Is this thy kindness to thy friend? Why did thou not go with thy friend?

But it was thou, a man my equal, my companion, and my familiar friend.

Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man who is my companion, says LORD of hosts. Smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered. And I will turn my hand upon the little ones.