◄ 2 Samuel 16 ►
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David and Ziba 1When David had gone a little beyond the summit, Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth was there to meet him. He had a pair of saddled donkeys loaded with two hundred loaves of bread, a hundred clusters of raisins, a hundred summer fruits, and a skin of wine. 2“Why do you have these?” asked the king. Ziba replied, “The donkeys are for the king’s household to ride, the bread and summer fruit are for the young men to eat, and the wine is to refresh those who become exhausted in the wilderness.” 3“Where is your master’s grandson?” asked the king. And Ziba answered, “Indeed, he is staying in Jerusalem, for he has said, ‘Today, the house of Israel will restore to me the kingdom of my grandfather.’” 4So the king said to Ziba, “All that belongs to Mephibosheth is now yours!” “I humbly bow before you,” said Ziba. “May I find favor in your eyes, my lord the king!” Shimei Curses David 5As King David approached Bahurim, a man from the family of the house of Saul was just coming out. His name was Shimei son of Gera, and as he approached, he kept yelling out curses. 6He threw stones at David and at all the servants of the king, though the troops and all the mighty men were on David’s right and left. 7And as he yelled curses, Shimei said, “Get out, get out, you worthless man of bloodshed! 8The LORD has paid you back for all the blood of the house of Saul, in whose place you have reigned, and the LORD has delivered the kingdom into the hand of your son Absalom. See, you have come to ruin because you are a man of bloodshed!” 9Then Abishai son of Zeruiah said to the king, “Why should this dead dog curse my lord the king? Let me go over and cut off his head!” 10But the king replied, “What have I to do with you, O sons of Zeruiah? If he curses me because the LORD told him, ‘Curse David,’ who can ask, ‘Why did you do this?’” 11Then David said to Abishai and to all his servants, “Behold, my own son, my own flesh and blood, seeks my life. How much more, then, this Benjamite! Leave him alone and let him curse me, for the LORD has told him so. 12Perhaps the LORD will see my affliction and repay me with good for the cursing I receive today.” 13So David and his men proceeded along the road as Shimei went along the ridge of the hill opposite him. As Shimei went, he yelled curses, threw stones, and flung dust at David. 14Finally, the king and all the people with him arrived,a exhausted. And there he refreshed himself. The Counsel of Ahithophel and Hushai 15Then Absalom and all the men of Israel came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel was with him. 16And David’s friend Hushai the Archite went to Absalom and said to him, “Long live the king! Long live the king!” 17“Is this the loyalty you show your friend?” Absalom replied. “Why did you not go with your friend?” 18“Not at all,” Hushai answered. “For the one chosen by the LORD, by this people, and by all the men of Israel—his I will be, and with him I will remain. 19Furthermore, whom should I serve if not his son? As I served in your father’s presence, so also I will serve in yours.” 20Then Absalom said to Ahithophel, “Give me counsel. What should we do?” 21Ahithophel replied, “Sleep with your father’s concubines, whom he has left to take care of the palace. When all Israel hears that you have become a stench to your father, then the hands of all who are with you will be strengthened.” 22So they pitched a tent for Absalom on the roof, and he slept with his father’s concubines in the sight of all Israel. 23Now in those days the advice of Ahithophel was like the consultation of the word of God. Such was the regard that both David and Absalom had for Ahithophel’s advice. Footnotes: 14 a Some LXX manuscripts arrived at the Jordan Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 Samuel 16 Summary David and Ziba Verses 1–4 – Ziba’s Opportunistic Gift David, barely beyond the Mount of Olives, is met by Ziba, steward of Mephibosheth. Ziba brings two saddled donkeys loaded with “two hundred loaves of bread, a hundred clusters of raisins, a hundred cakes of figs, and a skin of wine”. Claiming Mephibosheth has stayed behind to reclaim Saul’s throne, Ziba wins David’s favor and is granted all of Mephibosheth’s property. Verses 5–14 – Shimei’s Bitter Curse At Bahurim a relative of Saul, Shimei son of Gera, pelts David’s entourage with stones and shouts, “Get out, get out, you man of bloodshed!” (v. 7). Abishai offers to silence him, but David restrains retaliation, wondering if the LORD has allowed the cursing. Exhausted, the king and his people reach the Jordan-side refuge and refresh themselves. Verses 15–19 – Hushai’s Risky Fealty Absalom marches into Jerusalem with Ahithophel. Hushai the Arkite, David’s friend, greets Absalom: “Long live the king!” (v. 16). Pressed about his loyalty, Hushai shrewdly answers that he will serve the one chosen by the LORD and Israel—thus embedding himself as David’s inside man in Absalom’s court. Verses 20–23 – Ahithophel’s Dark Counsel Asked for advice, Ahithophel says, “Sleep with your father’s concubines” (v. 21). A tent is pitched on the palace roof—the very place David once eyed Bathsheba—and Absalom publicly claims the harem, sealing a break with his father and fulfilling Nathan’s prophecy (2 Samuel 12:11–12). Ahithophel’s counsel “was like one who consulted the word of God” (v. 23), yet it speeds Absalom toward ruin. 2 Samuel 16 presents a grim picture of King David’s life during the rebellion of his son Absalom. In this chapter, we observe the repercussions of past missteps and the unyielding loyalty of few, contrasted with the betrayal and disdain of others. The narrative focuses on several key interactions that signify deeper themes of deception, loyalty, repentance, and divine retribution. Historical Setting • Date: c. 970 BC, during Absalom’s revolt. • Political climate: David’s long reign is shaken; tribal loyalties are fluid. • Preceding events: Absalom’s conspiracy (15:1-12) and David’s flight (15:13-37). This chapter details day-one experiences on the escape route eastward. Key Characters • David – fleeing, humbled, still choosing mercy over vengeance (1 Samuel 24:6; Luke 6:27-28). • Ziba – opportunist; earlier pledged loyalty to Mephibosheth (9:1-13) but now positions himself for gain (Proverbs 26:23). • Mephibosheth – absent; later refutes Ziba’s account (19:24-30), exposing David’s hasty judgment. • Shimei – relative of Saul; his curses echo tribal grudges. His later pardon (19:16-23) and ultimate death under Solomon (1 Kings 2:36-46) reveal the long arc of justice. • Abishai – ever ready with the sword; restrained by David (cf. 1 Samuel 26:8-9). • Hushai – loyal friend, risking his life as a spy (Proverbs 17:17). • Ahithophel – famed counselor from Giloh, possibly Bathsheba’s grandfather (11:3; 23:34). His betrayal foreshadows Judas (Psalm 41:9; John 13:18). Geography and Archaeology • Mount of Olives (“the summit,” v. 1) gives a last view of Jerusalem; olive terraces still dot the ridge. • Bahurim’s exact location is debated; texts place it on the eastern slope, perhaps modern Ras et-Tur. Potsherds from Iron Age II hamlets support small settlements here—perfect for Shimei’s ambush. • Jerusalem’s flat palace roof, suited for evening breezes, becomes Absalom’s stage. Excavations in the City of David reveal stepped-stone structures and rooftops wide enough for such a tented spectacle. Objects and Customs • Provisions: raisins and fig cakes were compact, high-energy food for travel (1 Samuel 25:18). • Royal concubines: secondary wives who symbolized dynastic continuity. Taking them was a public claim to the throne (1 Kings 2:13-25). • Cursing: throwing dust and stones showed disdain (Acts 22:23). Mosaic law warned against cursing leaders (Exodus 22:28), yet David endures it. Scripture Connections • Nathan’s warning: “I will take your wives before your eyes and give them to your neighbor… in broad daylight” (2 Samuel 12:11-12). Absalom fulfills this word. • David’s response to cursing mirrors Moses’ meekness (Numbers 12:3) and previews Jesus “when He was reviled, He did not retaliate” (1 Peter 2:23). • Psalm 3, penned “when he fled from Absalom,” voices David’s heart during these events: “Many say of me, ‘God will not deliver him.’” Spiritual Themes 1. Humility under fire – David accepts shame as possibly from God (v. 10). 2. The danger of half-truths – Ziba’s account sways David; snap decisions bear consequences. 3. Public sin breeds public fallout – David’s earlier rooftop lust now yields rooftop disgrace. 4. God’s sovereignty over human schemes – While men plot, the LORD maneuvers events toward His purposes (Romans 8:28). Echoes in the New Testament • Betrayal by a trusted adviser (Ahithophel) foreshadows Judas (Matthew 26:14-16). • False accusations and curses hurled at the righteous mirror scenes at Calvary (Matthew 27:39-44). • The call to leave vengeance to God (Romans 12:19) is modeled by David’s restraint. Archaeological Sidebar: Raisins and Wine Skins Dried grape clusters found at Iron Age sites in the Jordan Valley confirm the storage method mentioned in v. 1. Goatskin wine containers discovered at En-gedi offer a tangible parallel to Ziba’s “skin of wine.” Lessons for Life • Beware the flattering gift that masks ambition. • Cursing tongues may be instruments God allows to test our hearts. • Wise counsel can be twisted to serve evil; discern the motive behind the advice. • God can plant allies (Hushai) even inside hostile territory. Simple Timeline 1. David crosses the summit (16:1). 2. Ziba’s meeting. 3. Bahurim: Shimei’s cursing. 4. Arrival at the Jordan camps (16:14). 5. Meanwhile in Jerusalem: Absalom, Hushai, Ahithophel (16:15-23). Map Snapshot (described) Jerusalem → Mount of Olives → Bahurim (east slope) → Road drops toward the Jordan—highlighting the path David takes and the vantage points Shimei uses. Closing Thought The chapter paints David at his lowest: stripped of power, cursed, betrayed. Yet his choice to trust God rather than defend himself sets the stage for restoration. The same God who heard David amid stones and dust still hears His people today when they walk through valleys of accusation and uncertainty. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 3:1-8 A psalm of David when he fled from Absalom, expressing trust in God's deliverance. Romans 12:19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.' Proverbs 19:21 Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail. Teaching Points Betrayal and Deception Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth, deceives David by bringing provisions and claiming that Mephibosheth has betrayed him. (2 Samuel 16:1-4) This act of deception highlights the theme of betrayal that runs throughout David's life, reminding us of the frailty of human loyalty. Humiliation and Cursing Shimei, a relative of Saul, curses David as he flees, throwing stones and accusing him of being a man of bloodshed. (2 Samuel 16:5-8) David's response to Shimei's cursing is one of humility and acceptance, recognizing that God may have allowed this for a purpose. (2 Samuel 16:10-12) David's Trust in God's Sovereignty Despite the humiliation, David chooses to trust in God's justice and sovereignty, leaving the matter in God's hands. (2 Samuel 16:12) This demonstrates David's deep faith and understanding that God is ultimately in control, even in the face of adversity. Counsel and Strategy Ahithophel, once David's trusted advisor, now counsels Absalom, further deepening the betrayal. (2 Samuel 16:15-23) The chapter ends with a strategic move by Hushai, David's friend, who seeks to counter Ahithophel's counsel, showing the importance of wise and loyal counsel. Practical Applications Responding to Betrayal When faced with betrayal, seek to respond with grace and humility, trusting that God sees and knows all. Handling Criticism Like David, when criticized or cursed, consider if there is truth in the words and leave the matter to God’s justice. Trusting God's Plan In times of adversity, reaffirm your trust in God's sovereignty and His ultimate plan for your life. Seeking Wise Counsel Surround yourself with godly and wise counselors who can provide guidance and support during challenging times. People 1. David The King of Israel, who is fleeing from his son Absalom. David's journey and interactions during this chapter highlight his humility and trust in God's sovereignty. 2. Ziba The servant of Mephibosheth, who meets David with provisions. Ziba claims that Mephibosheth has stayed in Jerusalem to seek the kingdom for himself, which influences David's decision to grant Ziba all of Mephibosheth's possessions. 3. Mephibosheth Although not directly appearing in this chapter, he is mentioned by Ziba. Mephibosheth is the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul, previously shown kindness by David. 4. Absalom David's son, who has declared himself king in Hebron and is pursuing David. His rebellion is a central conflict in this part of the narrative. 5. Shimei A man from the house of Saul who curses David and throws stones at him as David passes by. Shimei accuses David of being a man of bloodshed and blames him for the downfall of Saul's house. 6. Abishai The son of Zeruiah and brother of Joab, who offers to kill Shimei for cursing David. David restrains him, showing his desire to leave judgment to God. 7. Ahithophel Although not directly appearing in this chapter, he is mentioned as Absalom's counselor. His advice is highly regarded, and he plays a significant role in Absalom's rebellion. 8. Hushai the Archite A friend of David who is sent back to Jerusalem to act as a spy and counter the counsel of Ahithophel. His loyalty to David is crucial in the unfolding events. Places 1. Jerusalem This is the city from which King David departs as he flees from his son Absalom. Jerusalem is the central city of Israel, often referred to as the City of David. In Hebrew, it is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim). 2. Bahurim This is the place where Shimei, a man from the house of Saul, comes out to curse David as he passes by. Bahurim is a village in the territory of Benjamin. The Hebrew root "בַּחוּרִים" (Bachurim) suggests a place of young men or choice ones. Events 1. Ziba Deceives David (2 Samuel 16:1-4) As David flees from Jerusalem, Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth, meets him with provisions. Ziba claims that Mephibosheth has stayed in Jerusalem to reclaim his grandfather Saul's kingdom. David, believing Ziba, grants him all of Mephibosheth's possessions. The Hebrew root for "deceive" (רָמָה, ramah) is not explicitly used here, but the narrative implies deception. 2. Shimei Curses David (2 Samuel 16:5-8) As David continues his escape, Shimei, a relative of Saul, comes out cursing and throwing stones at David and his men. Shimei accuses David of being a "man of blood" and claims that the LORD is repaying David for the bloodshed of Saul's house. The Hebrew word for "curse" (קָלַל, qalal) indicates a strong verbal assault. 3. David's Response to Shimei (2 Samuel 16:9-14) Abishai, one of David's men, offers to kill Shimei, but David restrains him, suggesting that the LORD might have told Shimei to curse him. David expresses hope that the LORD will see his distress and repay him with good for the cursing he endures. The Hebrew root for "repay" (שׁוּב, shuv) is often used in contexts of divine recompense. 4. Ahithophel's Counsel to Absalom (2 Samuel 16:15-23) Meanwhile, Absalom enters Jerusalem with Ahithophel, David's former counselor. Ahithophel advises Absalom to sleep with David's concubines, left to keep the house, to strengthen his claim to the throne and show all Israel that he has made himself odious to his father. The Hebrew root for "counsel" (יָעַץ, ya'atz) reflects the strategic and often political nature of advice given by counselors. Lessons from 2 Samuel 16 1. The Consequences of Sin Are Real In 2 Samuel 16, we see the ripple effects of King David's past sins. As Absalom rebels, David faces the consequences of his actions with Bathsheba and Uriah. This chapter reminds us that while God forgives, the earthly consequences of sin can still unfold. As it is written, "Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return" (Galatians 6:7). It's a call to live righteously and seek God's guidance in all we do. 2. Humility in the Face of Adversity David's response to Shimei's cursing is a lesson in humility. Instead of retaliating, David accepts the possibility that God has allowed this for a reason. "Let him curse, for the LORD has told him so" (2 Samuel 16:10). This teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty and remain humble, even when faced with unjust criticism or hardship. 3. The Power of Forgiveness David's restraint towards Shimei is a powerful example of forgiveness. By choosing not to retaliate, David demonstrates a heart aligned with God's mercy. "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy" (Matthew 5:7). Forgiveness frees us from bitterness and aligns us with God's will. 4. The Importance of Wise Counsel Hushai's role as David's spy in Absalom's court highlights the value of wise counsel. David's strategic use of Hushai shows the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly advisors. "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed" (Proverbs 15:22). Seek wisdom from those who walk closely with the Lord. 5. Trust in God's Plan Despite the chaos, David trusts in God's ultimate plan. He doesn't know how things will unfold, but he places his faith in God's hands. "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it" (Psalm 37:5). This encourages us to trust God, even when the path seems uncertain. 6. The Dangers of Pride Absalom's rebellion is fueled by pride and ambition. His actions serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of letting pride take root in our hearts. "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18). We must guard our hearts and remain humble before God. 7. God's Sovereignty in All Circumstances Throughout the chapter, God's hand is evident, even in the midst of turmoil. David's journey reminds us that God is sovereign over every situation. "The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all" (Psalm 103:19). Trust in His control and His perfect timing. 8. The Role of Repentance David's life is marked by repentance, a key theme in his relationship with God. His willingness to acknowledge his sins and seek God's forgiveness is a model for us. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). Repentance restores our fellowship with God. 9. The Value of Loyalty Ittai the Gittite's loyalty to David is a testament to the power of steadfast friendship. Despite the risks, Ittai chooses to stand by David. "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity" (Proverbs 17:17). True loyalty reflects God's unwavering love for us. 10. God's Faithfulness Endures Even in exile, David experiences God's faithfulness. This chapter reassures us that God's promises are steadfast, regardless of our circumstances. "For the word of the LORD is upright, and all His work is trustworthy" (Psalm 33:4). Lean on His faithfulness, knowing He will never forsake you. Topics 1. Ziba's Deception and Provision (2 Samuel 16:1-4) As David flees from Absalom, Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth, meets him with provisions. Ziba claims that Mephibosheth has stayed in Jerusalem to reclaim his grandfather Saul's kingdom. David, believing Ziba, grants him all of Mephibosheth's possessions. The Hebrew root for "deceive" (רָמָה, ramah) is relevant here, as Ziba's actions are later revealed to be deceitful. 2. Shimei Curses David (2 Samuel 16:5-8) Shimei, a relative of Saul, curses David as he passes by, accusing him of being a "man of blood" and attributing his current misfortune to divine retribution for Saul's house. The Hebrew word for "curse" (קָלַל, qalal) indicates a strong denunciation, reflecting the deep animosity Shimei holds. 3. David's Response to Shimei (2 Samuel 16:9-14) Abishai, one of David's men, offers to kill Shimei for his cursing, but David restrains him, suggesting that the Lord may have commanded Shimei to curse. David's humility and trust in God's sovereignty are evident here. The Hebrew root for "humble" (עָנָה, anah) is significant, as David submits to God's will in this trial. 4. Ahithophel's Counsel to Absalom (2 Samuel 16:15-23) Ahithophel advises Absalom to publicly take David's concubines, a move intended to solidify Absalom's claim to the throne and humiliate David. The Hebrew root for "counsel" (יָעַץ, ya'ats) is crucial, as Ahithophel's advice is seen as both strategic and morally corrupt. This act fulfills Nathan's prophecy of calamity within David's house (2 Samuel 12:11). Themes 1. Betrayal and Deception In 2 Samuel 16, we see themes of betrayal and deception, particularly through the actions of Ziba and Ahithophel. Ziba deceives King David by bringing provisions and falsely claiming that Mephibosheth has betrayed him (2 Samuel 16:3). The Hebrew root for "deceive" (רָמָה, ramah) implies treachery and betrayal, highlighting the gravity of Ziba's actions. 2. Loyalty and Support Despite the betrayal, there are also themes of loyalty and support. Ziba's actions, although deceitful, are initially perceived by David as supportive. This reflects the complexity of human relationships and the importance of discernment in understanding true loyalty. 3. Cursing and Humiliation Shimei's cursing of David as he flees from Absalom is a significant theme (2 Samuel 16:5-8). The Hebrew word for "curse" (קָלַל, qalal) suggests not only verbal abuse but also an attempt to diminish David's honor and authority. This public humiliation is a test of David's character and response to adversity. 4. Divine Justice and Sovereignty David's response to Shimei's cursing reflects a theme of divine justice and sovereignty. David acknowledges that the LORD may have allowed Shimei to curse him (2 Samuel 16:10-12), demonstrating his belief in God's ultimate control and justice, even in difficult circumstances. 5. Counsel and Wisdom The counsel of Ahithophel to Absalom represents a theme of wisdom and its potential misuse (2 Samuel 16:20-23). The Hebrew root for "counsel" (עֵצָה, etzah) indicates advice or guidance, and Ahithophel's counsel, though strategically sound, is morally corrupt, highlighting the importance of righteous wisdom. 6. Consequences of Sin The unfolding events in 2 Samuel 16 are also a reminder of the consequences of sin, particularly in the context of David's past actions. The turmoil within David's family and kingdom can be seen as a fulfillment of Nathan's prophecy following David's sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:10-12), emphasizing the long-lasting impact of sin. 7. Humility and Submission David's humble acceptance of his circumstances and his submission to God's will are evident throughout the chapter. Despite being cursed and humiliated, David chooses not to retaliate, demonstrating a theme of humility and trust in God's plan (2 Samuel 16:11-12). Prayer Points Pray for the strength to respond with grace and humility when faced with betrayal or criticism. Ask God for wisdom to discern truth and to trust in His justice and sovereignty. Seek God’s guidance in surrounding yourself with wise and godly counselors. Pray for a heart that fully trusts in God’s plan, even when circumstances are challenging. Answering Tough Questions 1. (2 Samuel 16:1–4) Why would David immediately trust Ziba’s accusation and grant him all of Mephibosheth’s property without further investigation? 2. (2 Samuel 16:5–8) How could God supposedly endorse Shimei’s hostile cursing of David if God is just and fair? 3. (2 Samuel 16:10–12) Does David’s acceptance of Shimei’s cursing contradict other texts where blasphemy or cursing of God’s anointed is forbidden? 4. (2 Samuel 16:15–22) How can an all-powerful God allow Absalom’s public seizure of David’s concubines, seemingly without immediate judgment? 5. (2 Samuel 16) Are there any independent historical or archaeological records confirming these specific events and people mentioned in this chapter? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Ziba's deception reveal about the human propensity for personal gain at the expense of others? 2. How does David’s response to Shimei reflect his understanding of divine retribution? 3. In what ways does Absalom's actions reflect a desire for power, and how does this contrast with David's humility? 4. How can David's reaction to Shimei's cursing be a lesson for dealing with criticism or verbal attacks in today's world? 5. Why did David choose to endure Shimei's curses rather than punish him? What does this tell us about his character? 6. How does Hushai's loyalty to David contrast with Ahithophel's betrayal? 7. Can we find any parallels in our lives where we have shown loyalty or disloyalty, and what were the consequences? 8. How does David's response to adversity show his trust in God? How can we apply this trust in our lives? 9. What lessons can we learn from Absalom's disgraceful act of usurping his father's throne? 10. Reflect on how you handle false accusations. Do you respond like David or differently? 11. Why did Absalom follow Ahithophel's advice, and what does this reveal about the nature of his rebellion? 12. How does the narrative of Ahithophel and Absalom highlight the danger of bad counsel? 13. In what ways can we prevent ourselves from becoming tools of deceit like Ziba? 14. How does David's humility serve as an example for us when we face the consequences of our own wrong actions? 15. How would you handle a situation where a friend betrayed you like Ahithophel betrayed David? 16. What does this chapter reveal about the dynamics of power, treachery, and loyalty? 17. How does Shimei's disrespect towards David compare to today's culture of respect towards leadership? 18. What steps can you take to demonstrate humility and grace in times of adversity as David did? 19. How does David's treatment of Shimei challenge your own approach to dealing with personal enemies? 20. What personal changes can you make in your life in response to the lessons learned from 2 Samuel 16? 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