1 Samuel 23:12

KJV

Then said David, Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul? And the LORD said, They will deliver [thee] up.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then said {H559} David {H1732}, Will the men {H1167} of Keilah {H7084} deliver {H5462} me and my men {H582} into the hand {H3027} of Saul {H7586}? And the LORD {H3068} said {H559}, They will deliver thee up {H5462}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then David asked, "Will the men of Ke'ilah hand me and my men over to Sha'ul?"ADONAI said, "They will hand you over."

Berean Standard Bible

So David asked, “Will the citizens of Keilah surrender me and my men into the hand of Saul?” “They will,” said the LORD.

American Standard Version

Then said David, Will the men of Keilah deliver up me and my men into the hand of Saul? And Jehovah said, They will deliver thee up.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This pivotal verse recounts David's crucial inquiry to the Lord regarding the loyalty of the men of Keilah, a city he had just heroically delivered from the Philistines. Despite his recent act of salvation, David prudently sought divine counsel through the priestly ephod, asking if the inhabitants of Keilah would betray him and his men into the hands of King Saul. The Lord's immediate and unequivocal response, "They will deliver [thee] up," confirmed the treacherous intentions of the Keilahites, demonstrating divine omniscience and prompting David's swift and necessary departure from the city.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded in the intense narrative of David's flight from King Saul, who relentlessly pursues him out of paranoid jealousy and a desire to secure his usurped throne. Immediately preceding this, David, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to God's people even while a fugitive, heroically rescues the Philistine-besieged city of Keilah, saving its inhabitants and their livestock from destruction, a selfless act detailed in [1 Samuel 23:1-5](/1_samuel/23-1-5 "1 Samuel 23:1-5 - David Delivers Keilah"). Upon hearing of David's presence in the walled city, Saul perceives it as a strategic opportunity to trap his rival, planning to besiege Keilah, as revealed in [1 Samuel 23:7-8](/1_samuel/23-7-8 "1 Samuel 23:7-8 - Saul Plans to Trap David"). Sensing the imminent danger and the potential for betrayal from the very people he had just saved, David, through Abiathar the priest and the ephod, seeks direct divine revelation regarding two crucial questions: whether Saul would indeed come to Keilah, and whether the men of Keilah would betray him. The Lord's affirmative answer to the first question is given in [1 Samuel 23:11](/1_samuel/23-11 "1 Samuel 23:11 - The Lord Answers David's First Question"), and verse 12 provides the definitive answer to David's second, more specific question about the Keilahites' intentions, confirming the impending treachery and setting the stage for David's necessary withdrawal.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of Saul's reign, particularly as described in [1 Samuel](/1_samuel/1 "The Book of 1 Samuel"), was characterized by political instability, internal strife, and constant external threats, especially from the Philistines. Kingship in Israel was a relatively new institution, and the concept of a divinely chosen king (like David, though not yet reigning) often clashed with human ambition and the pragmatic realities of power. Walled cities like Keilah were vital strongholds, offering protection to their inhabitants but also serving as potential traps during times of conflict. Loyalty in ancient Near Eastern societies, while valued, was often fluid and heavily influenced by self-preservation and the prevailing power dynamics. Despite David's heroic deliverance of Keilah, the inhabitants' primary concern would have been their own safety and avoiding a devastating siege by King Saul, the established, albeit increasingly unstable, authority. The use of the ephod by Abiathar, containing the Urim and Thummim, was a legitimate and recognized method for seeking direct divine guidance in critical matters, reflecting the spiritual practices of the time before the full development of prophetic literature and the completion of the written Law.
* **Key Themes:** The broader narrative of [1 Samuel](/1_samuel/1 "The Book of 1 Samuel") is rich with themes that converge powerfully in this verse. **Divine Sovereignty and Providence** are paramount, as God actively intervenes to protect His anointed servant and guide his steps, demonstrating His foreknowledge of human actions and His control over circumstances, as seen in [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - God's Counsel Stands Forever"). The theme of **Human Treachery and Ingratitude** is starkly highlighted, as the Keilahites, despite being rescued, prove willing to betray their deliverer for self-preservation, echoing the fallen nature of humanity and the deceitfulness of the human heart, a truth explored in [Jeremiah 17:9](/jeremiah/17-9 "Jeremiah 17:9 - The Deceitfulness of the Heart"). This situation also powerfully illustrates **David's Prudence and Reliance on God**, contrasting his consistent seeking of divine counsel with Saul's increasing reliance on human wisdom and self-will, a principle emphasized in [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart"). Ultimately, the narrative reinforces the overarching theme of **God's Unwavering Protection of His Anointed**, ensuring David's survival against overwhelming odds as he is prepared for his future kingship and the establishment of God's covenant dynasty, much like the divine protection promised in [Psalm 18:2](/psalms/18-2 "Psalm 18:2 - The Lord My Rock and Deliverer").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Said (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** The Hebrew verb אָמַר (_ʼâmar_) is a primitive root meaning "to say," used with great latitude to encompass speaking, answering, appointing, commanding, declaring, and even thinking or intending. In this verse, it is used twice: first, for David's inquiry, indicating his deliberate and formal posing of a question to the Lord; and second, for the Lord's response, highlighting the divine authority and certainty of the revelation. This word underscores the direct, verbal communication between David and God, emphasizing the personal and active nature of their relationship.
* **Deliver (Hebrew, _çâgar'_):** The Hebrew verb סָגַר (_çâgar_) is a primitive root meaning "to shut up," "to close," or, figuratively, "to surrender" or "to give over." In this context, it carries the strong connotation of betrayal and active surrender. The Lord's use of this word indicates a definitive and intentional act of treachery on the part of the Keilahites, implying they would not merely allow David to be captured but would actively "shut him up" within the city walls and then "hand him over" to his enemy. This is not a passive act but a deliberate decision to betray their deliverer.
* **Hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** The Hebrew noun יָד (_yâd_) literally means "hand," but is used with a great variety of applications, both literally and figuratively. Here, in the phrase "into the hand of Saul," it signifies power, control, and dominion. To be delivered "into the hand" of someone means to be placed completely under their authority and at their mercy. The phrase vividly conveys the absolute vulnerability David would face if he were surrendered to Saul, emphasizing the dire consequences of the Keilahites' intended betrayal.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then said David, Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul?"**: This clause encapsulates David's astute discernment and his profound reliance on divine guidance. Despite having just performed a heroic act of salvation for Keilah, David does not assume loyalty or safety. He poses a direct and specific question to the Lord, demonstrating his understanding of human nature and the precariousness of his situation as a hunted fugitive. This inquiry, following his prior question about Saul's approach (verse 11), highlights David's proactive seeking of God's will to avoid a potential trap and protect his loyal followers. It underscores his spiritual maturity in prioritizing divine counsel over human assumptions.
* **"And the LORD said, They will deliver [thee] up."**: This is the Lord's unambiguous, direct, and concise response, confirming David's suspicions. The brevity and certainty of the divine answer leave no room for doubt regarding the Keilahites' treacherous intentions. God, in His omniscience, reveals the hidden motives and future actions of the inhabitants, intentions that would have led to David's capture and likely death. This divine revelation is a clear and powerful act of providence, providing David with the critical, life-saving information needed to escape the impending danger, thus preserving His anointed one for his future role as king. The phrase "deliver up" reinforces the active and intentional nature of the Keilahites' anticipated betrayal.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several significant literary devices that enhance its dramatic and theological impact. **Dialogue** is central, presenting a direct, urgent exchange between David and the Lord, which underscores David's personal, intimate relationship with God and God's active, responsive involvement in human affairs. The Lord's concise response functions as a **Divine Revelation** or **Oracle**, a direct communication from God that unveils future events and hidden intentions, powerfully highlighting His omniscience and sovereign control. This revelation also serves as **Foreshadowing**, indicating the impending treachery of the Keilahites before it occurs, allowing David to pre-empt the danger. Furthermore, there is an element of **Dramatic Irony**, as the audience (and David) is made aware of the Keilahites' treacherous intentions through the divine oracle, while the Keilahites themselves remain oblivious that their future actions have been divinely exposed, underscoring the vital nature of David's inquiry. The narrative's swift pacing, moving from David's anxious question to God's immediate and definitive answer, builds **Suspense** and then provides immediate resolution, driving the plot forward with urgency.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 23:12 powerfully illustrates God's active providence and His intimate knowledge of human hearts and future events. It underscores the critical importance of seeking divine counsel, especially in times of uncertainty and danger, rather than relying on human assumptions or perceived loyalties. The verse also serves as a sobering reminder of human fallenness and the potential for ingratitude and betrayal, even from those who have received great benefit. Despite the treachery of men, God remains faithful to His promises and protects His anointed, guiding them through peril with precise and timely revelation. This passage affirms that God's knowledge is not merely passive but active, guiding His people and thwarting the plans of their adversaries.

* [Psalm 139:1-4](/psalms/139-1-4 "Psalm 139:1-4 - God's Omniscience and Presence")
* [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "Proverbs 16:9 - The Lord Directs Our Steps")
* [Jeremiah 17:9-10](/jeremiah/17-9-10 "Jeremiah 17:9-10 - The Deceitfulness of the Heart")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of David and the Keilahites in 1 Samuel 23:12 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It challenges us to cultivate a consistent habit of seeking God's wisdom and specific guidance in all our decisions, particularly when faced with difficult choices, potential dangers, or uncertain relationships. We are reminded that human loyalty can be fickle, and circumstances can shift rapidly, making reliance on our own discernment, past favors, or the perceived trustworthiness of others insufficient for true security. Just as God revealed the Keilahites' true, hidden intentions to David, He continues to provide discernment and direction for His people today through His inspired Word, through prayer and the leading of the Holy Spirit, and often through the wise counsel of godly community. This passage encourages us to remain vigilant, to test assumptions, and to place our ultimate trust not in human alliances or the security of our surroundings, but in the faithful, omniscient, and sovereign hand of God, who alone knows the future and the true intentions of all people. Our security is found not in human strength or loyalty, but in divine protection and guidance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you tend to rely more on human assumptions or your own understanding rather than seeking God's specific guidance?**
* **How does the Lord's clear and direct answer to David encourage you about God's willingness and ability to guide His people today?**
* **Can you recall a time when God revealed a hidden danger or a person's true intentions to you, protecting you from potential harm?**
* **What practical steps can you take to more consistently inquire of the Lord before making significant decisions, especially concerning relationships or perceived threats?**

### FAQ
**Why did David, after saving Keilah, still doubt their loyalty and inquire of the Lord?**

Answer: David's inquiry was not necessarily a sign of doubt in God, but rather a profound demonstration of his spiritual prudence, wisdom, and consistent reliance on divine guidance. He understood that human gratitude can be fleeting, and self-preservation often trumps loyalty, especially when facing the immense power and threat of a king like Saul. David had just delivered Keilah from the Philistines, as recounted in [1 Samuel 23:1-5](/1_samuel/23-1-5 "1 Samuel 23:1-5 - David Delivers Keilah"), but he recognized that the imminent threat of Saul's siege, as Saul planned to trap him there ([1 Samuel 23:7-8](/1_samuel/23-7-8 "1 Samuel 23:7-8 - Saul Plans to Trap David")), could easily sway the Keilahites to betray him for their own safety and to avoid the king's wrath. His decision to inquire of the Lord through Abiathar and the ephod ([1 Samuel 23:9-10](/1_samuel/23-9-10 "1 Samuel 23:9-10 - David Inquires of the Lord")) showcased his consistent practice of seeking God's counsel in critical situations, ensuring his actions aligned with God's will and protected him from unforeseen treachery. It highlights his wisdom in not assuming human loyalty, even after performing a great service, and his ultimate trust in God's omniscience.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of David's near-betrayal in Keilah, and God's protective, omniscient intervention, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate divine providence concerning God's greater Anointed One, Jesus Christ. Just as David, the deliverer of Keilah, faced the ingratitude and potential betrayal of those he saved, so too did Jesus, the ultimate Deliverer and King, experience profound human treachery. The Keilahites' willingness to "deliver up" David finds its tragic and ultimate echo in the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot, one of His own chosen disciples, who "delivered him up" to the authorities for thirty pieces of silver ([Matthew 26:14-16](/matthew/26-14-16 "Matthew 26:14-16 - Judas Betrays Jesus"); [John 13:21](/john/13-21 "John 13:21 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayal")). Yet, unlike David who escaped the snare, Jesus willingly submitted to being delivered up, not as a helpless victim of circumstance, but as part of God's sovereign, predetermined plan for the redemption of humanity ([Acts 2:23](/acts/2-23 "Acts 2:23 - God's Foreordained Plan")). God's omniscience, so clearly evident in revealing the Keilahites' hidden intentions to David, is even more profoundly displayed in the foreknowledge and meticulous orchestration of Christ's passion, where every detail, including the betrayal, was known and purposed by God from eternity ([Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - He Was Oppressed and Afflicted")). Thus, 1 Samuel 23:12, while a compelling story of divine protection for David, ultimately points to the greater truth that God's plan for salvation, though involving the darkest human treachery, was perfectly executed through the willing and sacrificial offering of the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 31:8

And hast not shut me up into the hand of the enemy: thou hast set my feet in a large room.

1 Samuel 23:20

Now therefore, O king, come down according to all the desire of thy soul to come down; and our part [shall be] to deliver him into the king's hand.

Psalms 62:1

¶ To the chief Musician, to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David. Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him [cometh] my salvation.

Hebrews 4:13

Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things [are] naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

1 Samuel 23:7

¶ And it was told Saul that David was come to Keilah. And Saul said, God hath delivered him into mine hand; for he is shut in, by entering into a town that hath gates and bars.

Ecclesiastes 9:14

[There was] a little city, and few men within it; and there came a great king against it, and besieged it, and built great bulwarks against it:

Ecclesiastes 9:15

Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man.