[7] And it came to pass after forty years, that Absalom said unto the king, and pay my vow, which I have vowed unto the LORD, in Hebron. [8] For thy servant vowed a vow while I abode at Geshur in Syria, saying, If the LORD shall bring me again indeed to Jerusalem, then I will serve the LORD. [9] And the king said in peace. So he arose, to Hebron. [10] But Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then ye shall say, Absalom reigneth in Hebron. [11] And with Absalom went two hundred men out of Jerusalem, that were called; and they went in their simplicity, and they knew not any thing. [12] And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counsellor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom. [13] And there came a messenger to David, saying, The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom.