1 Samuel 23:2

KJV

Therefore David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the LORD said unto David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore David {H1732} enquired {H7592} of the LORD {H3068}, saying {H559}, Shall I go {H3212} and smite {H5221} these Philistines {H6430}? And the LORD {H3068} said {H559} unto David {H1732}, Go {H3212}, and smite {H5221} the Philistines {H6430}, and save {H3467} Keilah {H7084}.

Complete Jewish Bible

David consulted ADONAI, asking, "Should I go and attack these P'lishtim?"ADONAI answered David, "Go, and attack the P'lishtim, and save Ke'ilah."

Berean Standard Bible

So David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go and attack these Philistines?” And the LORD said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.”

American Standard Version

Therefore David inquired of Jehovah, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And Jehovah said unto David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 23:2 powerfully illustrates David's unwavering commitment to divine guidance amidst profound personal peril, revealing his character as a leader who consistently prioritizes God's will and the welfare of His people above self-preservation. Despite being a fugitive from King Saul, David consults the LORD regarding the Philistine threat to Keilah, receiving a clear command to intervene, which underscores God's active involvement in the affairs of His chosen servants and His profound compassion for Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated during a tumultuous and pivotal period in David's life, following his anointing as king but preceding his actual enthronement. He is a fugitive, relentlessly pursued by King Saul, who views him as a rival to the throne. David has gathered a band of loyal followers (around 600 men by this point, as seen in [the account of David's men](/1_samuel/23-13 "1 Samuel 23:13 - David's Men")) and is living in caves and strongholds, constantly on the move to evade Saul's forces. News reaches David that the Philistines, Israel's long-standing enemies, are attacking Keilah, a city in the territory of Judah, and plundering their threshing floors. This situation presents a profound dilemma for David: should he, an outlaw with limited resources, risk exposing himself and his men to come to the aid of his countrymen, or should he prioritize his own safety? His decision to inquire of the LORD in this verse initiates a sequence of events that further demonstrates his reliance on God and God's faithfulness to him, even as Saul continues his relentless pursuit in the subsequent verses of [1 Samuel 23](/1_samuel/23 "1 Samuel 23 - David at Keilah").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Philistines were a formidable military power, occupying the southwestern coastal plain of Canaan and frequently encroaching upon Israelite territory. Their attacks on "threshing floors" were economically devastating, as these were vital communal areas where grain was separated from chaff, representing the very sustenance of the community. Keilah was a fortified city in the Shephelah region of Judah, a strategic location. The practice of "inquiring of the LORD" was a recognized means of seeking divine guidance in ancient Israel, often performed through a priest using the Urim and Thummim (sacred lots associated with the ephod) or through a prophet. This act signifies a formal, spiritual consultation, indicating a deep-seated belief in God's active involvement in human affairs and His willingness to provide direction. David's consistent adherence to this practice stands in stark contrast to King Saul's later abandonment of seeking God's will, as tragically depicted in [Saul's failed inquiry](/1_samuel/28-6 "1 Samuel 28:6 - Saul's Failed Inquiry").
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes within 1 Samuel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Seeking Divine Guidance**, portraying David as a leader who consistently prioritizes God's direction before making critical decisions, even when facing immediate danger. This contrasts sharply with Saul's increasingly self-reliant and disobedient reign. Secondly, it underscores **God's Active Involvement and Sovereignty**, as the LORD provides a direct, unambiguous answer, demonstrating His intimate concern for His people and His willingness to guide those who genuinely seek Him. Thirdly, the passage emphasizes **Faith and Obedience**, as David is prepared to act upon God's command despite the inherent risks of engaging the formidable Philistines and revealing his location to Saul. This act of faith demonstrates his trust in God's protection and provision. Finally, it powerfully illustrates **God's Compassion for His People**, as the command to "save Keilah" reveals God's desire for justice and deliverance from oppression, using David, even in his fugitive state, as an instrument of His salvation for the people of Judah. This foreshadows David's role as the divinely appointed king and shepherd of Israel, a theme that resonates throughout [the book of 1 Samuel](/1_samuel/1 "1 Samuel - The Rise of David and Fall of Saul").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **enquired (Hebrew, _shâʼal'_):** This verb signifies a formal, deliberate act of seeking counsel or an oracle, often in a spiritual context from a divine source. It implies a posture of dependence and submission to a higher authority. The root of this word is ironically the same as King Saul's name (Sha'ul), creating a subtle yet profound contrast: David consistently "inquires" of the LORD, while Saul, whose very name means "asked for," ultimately fails to seek God's will, leading to his downfall.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This is the covenant name of God, revealing Him as the self-existent, faithful, and personal God who keeps His promises. David's inquiry is not to a generic deity but to the specific God of Israel, with whom he has a personal relationship and who has made promises concerning his future kingship. God's direct response using this name reinforces His covenant faithfulness and active presence in David's life and the life of His people.
* **save (Hebrew, _yâshaʻ'_):** This verb means to deliver, to rescue, or to bring salvation. It implies intervention from a state of distress or danger. In this context, God commands David to "save Keilah," indicating His desire for the physical deliverance of His people from their oppressors. This word carries significant theological weight, pointing to God as the ultimate Deliverer and foreshadowing the greater salvation that would come through the Davidic line.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines?":** This opening clause highlights David's immediate and instinctive turn to God in a moment of crisis and moral dilemma. The "therefore" connects it to the news of Keilah's distress, indicating that David's first impulse was not self-preservation or strategic planning based on human wisdom, but rather seeking divine counsel. His question is direct and specific, reflecting a genuine desire for clear direction regarding a dangerous military undertaking. It demonstrates his recognition of God's sovereignty over military outcomes and his dependence on divine authorization.
* **"And the LORD said unto David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah.":** This second clause records God's swift, unambiguous, and affirmative response. The divine command is twofold: to "smite the Philistines" (a military offensive) and to "save Keilah" (a protective, redemptive act for His people). This demonstrates God's active involvement in the daily affairs of His people, His compassion for their suffering, and His willingness to empower David, even in his fugitive state, to act as His instrument of deliverance. The clarity of the command leaves no room for doubt, demanding immediate obedience.

#### Literary Devices
The passage effectively employs **Contrast** by juxtaposing David's consistent and earnest inquiry of the LORD with King Saul's increasing spiritual alienation and ultimate failure to seek God's will. This highlights David's character as a man after God's own heart, even in his outlaw status, and underscores the spiritual decline of Saul. The narrative also features clear **Divine Dialogue**, presenting a direct, unmediated communication between God and David, which emphasizes God's personal involvement and His accessibility to those who genuinely seek Him. Furthermore, there is an element of **Foreshadowing** in David's role as a deliverer of God's people from their enemies, which anticipates his future role as king and the ultimate deliverer, the Messiah, who would come from his lineage. The **Irony** of an outlaw acting more righteously and effectively for the welfare of Israel than the reigning king is also subtly present.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 23:2 profoundly illustrates the indispensable nature of seeking divine guidance in all aspects of life, particularly when faced with significant decisions or moral dilemmas. It underscores God's character as a compassionate, sovereign, and communicative Lord who is intimately involved in the lives of His people and desires their well-being. David's example teaches that true leadership, even in its nascent and unconventional forms, is rooted in humble dependence on God's wisdom and authority, rather than human strength or strategic acumen. This passage affirms that God not only hears but also responds, providing clear direction to those who genuinely seek His will, thereby empowering them to act in faith for His purposes and the good of others.

* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart")
* [Psalm 32:8](/psalms/32-8 "Psalm 32:8 - God's Guidance and Instruction")
* [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - Asking God for Wisdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's immediate turn to the LORD in 1 Samuel 23:2 offers a timeless blueprint for navigating life's complexities and crises. In an age where self-reliance and immediate gratification often dictate decisions, David's example calls us to pause, humble ourselves, and prioritize seeking God's counsel above all else. This isn't merely about asking for advice, but about a deep-seated trust that God's wisdom is superior to our own, and His plans are ultimately for our good and the good of those around us. Furthermore, the passage challenges us to consider our willingness to obey God's clear commands, even when they involve personal risk, inconvenience, or stepping outside our comfort zones, as David did in facing the Philistines and exposing himself to Saul's pursuit. Our faith is truly tested not just in seeking, but in the subsequent act of obedience, trusting that God will provide the necessary strength and protection to accomplish His purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How consistently do I seek God's guidance through prayer and Scripture before making significant decisions in my life?**
* **What "Keilahs" – situations of need, injustice, or suffering – in my community or the world might God be calling me to act upon, even if it involves personal risk or sacrifice?**
* **Am I willing to obey God's clear commands, even when they seem challenging or inconvenient, trusting in His provision and protection?**

### FAQ
**How did David inquire of the LORD in this instance?**

Answer: While the specific method isn't explicitly detailed in this verse, the phrase "enquired of the LORD" typically refers to a formal consultation, most commonly through priestly means. In David's case, this would involve Abiathar, the priest who had joined him, utilizing the ephod which contained the Urim and Thummim (see [Abiathar Brings the Ephod to David](/1_samuel/23-9 "1 Samuel 23:9 - Abiathar Brings the Ephod to David")). These were sacred lots used to discern God's will by yielding a "yes" or "no" answer, or providing clear direction, as seen here. It was a recognized and legitimate way for the leader of Israel to receive divine oracle.

**Why was Keilah important enough for David to risk his life and his men's lives?**

Answer: Keilah was a fortified city in the territory of Judah, David's own tribe. The Philistines were plundering its threshing floors, which meant they were destroying the city's food supply and livelihood, effectively starving the inhabitants. For David, even as a fugitive, the welfare of God's people was paramount. His willingness to defend Keilah demonstrated his commitment to his people and his future role as their shepherd-king, contrasting sharply with Saul's self-centered reign. It was an act of faith and compassion, trusting God to protect him even as he acted to protect others. This aligns with the broader narrative of [David's heart for God's people](/1_samuel/17 "1 Samuel 17 - David and Goliath").

**What does this verse tell us about God's character?**

Answer: This verse reveals several key aspects of God's character. Firstly, it shows His **active involvement** in human affairs and His **compassion** for the suffering of His people. He hears their cries (implied by the Philistine attack) and provides a means of deliverance. Secondly, it highlights His **faithfulness** to His chosen servants, like David, providing clear guidance and empowering them to fulfill His purposes. Thirdly, it underscores His **sovereignty**, as He directs human actions to achieve His will, even using an outlawed leader to bring salvation. God is not distant but intimately concerned and actively engaged in the lives of those who seek Him, as He promised in [Jeremiah 29:13](/jeremiah/29-13 "Jeremiah 29:13 - Seeking God with All Your Heart").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Samuel 23:2, with David inquiring of the LORD and being sent to "save Keilah," powerfully foreshadows the ultimate Deliverer, Jesus Christ. David, though flawed, acts as a type of the Messiah, putting his life at risk to rescue God's people from their enemies. Just as David sought and received divine instruction to undertake a dangerous mission of salvation, so too did Jesus perfectly embody obedience to His Father's will. From the very beginning, Jesus' mission was to [save his people from their sins](/matthew/1-21 "Matthew 1:21 - Jesus Will Save His People"). He consistently declared that His will was perfectly aligned with the Father's, stating, "For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but to do the will of him who sent me" ([Jesus' Will is the Father's Will](/john/6-38 "John 6:38 - Jesus' Will is the Father's Will")). Unlike David, who inquired and then obeyed, Jesus, as the Son, perfectly knew and perfectly executed the Father's redemptive plan, even to the point of death on a cross. He is the true [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), the one who [learned obedience through what he suffered](/hebrews/5-8 "Hebrews 5:8 - Jesus Learned Obedience"), ultimately accomplishing salvation not just for a city, but for all humanity, delivering us from the ultimate enemy, sin and death. His deliverance is eternal, securing us from the power of darkness and transferring us into the kingdom of His beloved Son ([Colossians 1:13](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13 - Delivered from Darkness")).

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

1 Samuel 23:4

Then David enquired of the LORD yet again. And the LORD answered him and said, Arise, go down to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines into thine hand.

2 Samuel 5:19

And David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto David, Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand.

2 Samuel 5:23

And when David enquired of the LORD, he said, Thou shalt not go up; [but] fetch a compass behind them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees.

Joshua 9:14

And the men took of their victuals, and asked not [counsel] at the mouth of the LORD.

Jeremiah 10:23

O LORD, I know that the way of man [is] not in himself: [it is] not in man that walketh to direct his steps.

1 Samuel 23:9

And David knew that Saul secretly practised mischief against him; and he said to Abiathar the priest, Bring hither the ephod.

1 Samuel 23:12

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.