Charles Spurgeon Commentary 2 Samuel 15:12

"And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David`s counsellor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he was offering the sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom." — 2 Samuel 15:12 (ASV)

Absalom had, by devious means, insinuated himself into the hearts of the children of Israel and led a rebellion against his father David, so that he could obtain the crown for himself.