1 Samuel 22:1

¶ David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard [it], they went down thither to him.

David {H1732} therefore departed {H3212} thence, and escaped {H4422} to the cave {H4631} Adullam {H5725}: and when his brethren {H251} and all his father's {H1} house {H1004} heard {H8085} it, they went down {H3381} thither to him.

David left there and took refuge in the Cave of 'Adulam. When his brothers and the rest of his father's family heard of it, they went down to see him there.

So David left Gath and took refuge in the cave of Adullam. When his brothers and the rest of his father’s household heard about it, they went down to him there.

David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave of Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father’s house heard it, they went down thither to him.

Commentary

1 Samuel 22:1 marks a pivotal moment in David's life, showing him as a fugitive seeking safety from King Saul's relentless pursuit. This verse sets the stage for David's formation of a loyal band of followers, who would later become the core of his army and administration.

Context

Following his dramatic escape from King Achish of Gath, where he feigned madness to preserve his life (1 Samuel 21:10), David finds himself utterly alone and desperate. His previous attempts to find refuge had failed, and he was now a man on the run from the reigning monarch, King Saul, who was consumed by jealousy (1 Samuel 18:8). The "cave Adullam" served as a strategic and naturally defensible location in the Shephelah, the lowlands of Judah, not far from David's hometown of Bethlehem. This geographical detail is significant, as it provided a hidden sanctuary.

The arrival of David's "brethren and all his father's house" (Jesse's family) highlights the dire situation. By associating with David, they too were now considered enemies of Saul and faced potential retribution. Their decision to join David underscores the deep familial loyalty and the gravity of the threat posed by Saul's tyrannical rule.

Key Themes

  • Refuge and Protection: The cave Adullam symbolizes a place of safety and refuge from persecution. It illustrates how, even in the wilderness or obscure places, God can provide shelter for His servants. This theme resonates with many psalms where David speaks of God as his rock and fortress.
  • Leadership in Adversity: Despite his status as a hunted man, David's inherent leadership qualities begin to shine. He becomes a rallying point for his family and, as the next verse reveals (1 Samuel 22:2), for others who were distressed, indebted, or discontented. This period of hardship was instrumental in forging David into the king God intended him to be (1 Samuel 16:13).
  • Family Solidarity: The willingness of David's family to abandon their homes and join him in the cave demonstrates a powerful bond and shared commitment. This act of solidarity emphasizes the importance of family support during times of severe trial.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "departed thence, and escaped" underscores the urgency and desperation of David's flight. The Hebrew verb for "escaped" (מָלַט, malat) often implies a narrow or sudden deliverance from danger, emphasizing David's precarious situation and God's protective hand over him.

Practical Application

This verse offers powerful lessons for believers facing their own "caves of Adullam."

  • God Provides Refuge: When you feel hunted, alone, or in desperate circumstances, remember that God can provide unexpected places of safety and rest.
  • Leadership Through Trials: Difficult seasons can be opportunities for growth and for God to refine your character and leadership abilities. Even in weakness, God can raise you up.
  • Value of Community: The support of family and a loyal community is invaluable during times of trouble. Seek out and cherish those who stand with you in adversity.
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Cross-References

  • Psalms 57:1

    ¶ To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave. Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until [these] calamities be overpast.

  • Psalms 57:11

    Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: [let] thy glory [be] above all the earth.

  • 1 Chronicles 11:15

    Now three of the thirty captains went down to the rock to David, into the cave of Adullam; and the host of the Philistines encamped in the valley of Rephaim.

  • Psalms 142:1

    ¶ Maschil of David; A Prayer when he was in the cave. I cried unto the LORD with my voice; with my voice unto the LORD did I make my supplication.

  • Psalms 142:7

    Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me.

  • Psalms 34:1

    ¶ [A Psalm] of David, when he changed his behaviour before Abimelech; who drove him away, and he departed. I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise [shall] continually [be] in my mouth.

  • 1 Samuel 21:10

    ¶ And David arose, and fled that day for fear of Saul, and went to Achish the king of Gath.
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