2 Samuel 17:10

Shall utterly melt. With the report of a major catastrophe circulating through the ranks, the hearts of even the most valiant would be gripped with fear. A sudden panic could easily ensue that would bring Absalom’s cause down in swift and utter ruin. Hushai was appealing to Absalom’s sense of fear and caution.

A mighty man. Hushai was doing his utmost to create in Absalom a wholesome sense of respect for and fear of David’s prowess. David did indeed have with him very brave and valiant warriors, and Absalom well knew his father to be a most courageous and resourceful commander. Under ordinary conditions the picture that Hushai was painting would be all too true, but these were not ordinary circumstances. Hushai was making a bid for time, to give David the opportunity to pull himself and his men together, so that they would be ready for Absalom’s attack. It is likely that Hushai knew that Absalom was not a man of courage, and in view of this he adroitly magnified the significance of the warlike prowess of David and the mighty men who were with him. His speech was skillfully adapted to engender fear in the weak but boastful son of David.