1 Samuel 23:25

KJV

Saul also and his men went to seek [him]. And they told David: wherefore he came down into a rock, and abode in the wilderness of Maon. And when Saul heard [that], he pursued after David in the wilderness of Maon.

KJV (with Strong's)

Saul {H7586} also and his men {H582} went {H3212} to seek {H1245} him. And they told {H5046} David {H1732}: wherefore he came down {H3381} into a rock {H5553}, and abode {H3427} in the wilderness {H4057} of Maon {H4584}. And when Saul {H7586} heard {H8085} that, he pursued {H7291} after {H310} David {H1732} in the wilderness {H4057} of Maon {H4584}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Sha'ul and his men went searching for him. David was told, so he came down to the rock and stayed in the Ma'on Desert. When Sha'ul heard that, he pursued David in the Ma'on Desert.

Berean Standard Bible

and Saul and his men went to seek him. When David was told about it, he went down to the rock and stayed in the Wilderness of Maon. And when Saul heard of this, he pursued David there.

American Standard Version

And Saul and his men went to seek him. And they told David: wherefore he came down to the rock, and abode in the wilderness of Maon. And when Saul heardthat, he pursued after David in the wilderness of Maon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 23:25 vividly captures a critical moment in King Saul's relentless and obsessive pursuit of David, the anointed future king of Israel. This verse details Saul's determined effort to track David and his men, David's strategic retreat into the rugged terrain of the wilderness of Maon upon receiving intelligence, and Saul's immediate, unyielding continuation of the chase into the very same desolate region. It underscores David's precarious existence as a fugitive, constantly on the move, yet subtly hints at the divine providence that would consistently deliver him from Saul's grasp.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a larger narrative arc (1 Samuel 19-26) that chronicles David's desperate flight from Saul's escalating jealousy and murderous intent. Specifically, it follows the treacherous betrayal by the Ziphites, who twice informed Saul of David's hiding places in their territory ([1 Samuel 23:19](/1_samuel/23-19 "1 Samuel 23:19 - Ziphites Betray David")). David had just escaped Keilah and was moving through various strongholds in the wilderness. Verse 25 sets the stage for the dramatic climax of this particular chase, which culminates in David's miraculous escape at the "Rock of Escape" or "Sela Hammahlekoth" in [1 Samuel 23:26-28](/1_samuel/23-26 "1 Samuel 23:26-28 - The Rock of Escape")). The immediate narrative flow emphasizes Saul's unwavering obsession and David's constant need for vigilance and strategic movement to survive.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events unfold in the Judean wilderness, a region characterized by its harsh, arid landscape, deep wadis (valleys), caves, and rocky outcrops that provided natural hiding places for fugitives and outlaws. Maon was a town in the southern part of Judah, and its surrounding "wilderness" (Hebrew: _midbar_) was a desolate, uncultivated area, ideal for evading a large pursuing army. Saul, as king, commanded significant resources, including a standing army and a network of informants, as evidenced by the Ziphites' actions. David, though anointed, was a fugitive, relying on a small band of loyal followers and his wits. The cultural context includes the concept of a king's absolute authority and the severe consequences of perceived rebellion, even if unjust. Saul's actions also reflect the deep-seated paranoia that had gripped him, likely exacerbated by the evil spirit mentioned in [1 Samuel 16:14](/1_samuel/16-14 "1 Samuel 16:14 - Saul Tormented by an Evil Spirit").

* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Samuel. **Relentless Persecution** is vividly portrayed by Saul's unwavering pursuit, highlighting his deep-seated animosity and psychological torment, as seen in his repeated attempts to kill David (e.g., [1 Samuel 19:9-10](/1_samuel/19-9 "1 Samuel 19:9-10 - Saul Tries to Kill David with a Spear")). David's constant movement and reliance on "a rock" underscore his **Vulnerability and Strategic Prudence**, demonstrating his active efforts to evade capture while trusting in God. Most profoundly, though not explicitly stated in this single verse, the broader narrative of David's flight consistently points to **Divine Providence and Protection**. Despite overwhelming odds and Saul's vast resources, David repeatedly escapes, a testament to God's faithfulness to His chosen one, echoing themes found in psalms like [Psalm 18:2](/psalms/18-2 "Psalm 18:2 - God as My Rock and Fortress") where God is called a "rock and fortress." This ongoing deliverance reinforces the theme of God's sovereign hand guiding the succession of kingship in Israel.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Seek (Hebrew, בָּקַשׁ, _baqash'_):** This verb denotes an active, intensive, and often deliberate search or inquiry. In this context, it emphasizes Saul's determined and focused effort to find David, indicating not a casual search but a relentless hunt driven by obsession. It highlights the king's personal involvement and the gravity of the pursuit.
* **Rock (Hebrew, סֶלַע, _sela'_):** More than just a stone, _sela'_ refers to a craggy cliff, a large rock formation, or a natural stronghold. This term highlights the rugged, defensive topography of the Judean wilderness. David's choice to "come down into a rock" signifies his strategic use of the natural landscape for protection, seeking refuge in a place that offered natural fortification and concealment against a superior force.
* **Wilderness of Maon (Hebrew, מִדְבַּר מָעוֹן, _midbar Ma'on'_):** "Midbar" refers to an uncultivated, sparsely populated, often arid region, distinct from fertile land. "Maon" literally means "dwelling" or "habitation." The irony is palpable: David, a fugitive with no permanent home, constantly on the run, seeks refuge in a "wilderness of dwelling." This name underscores the desolate nature of his existence while highlighting the specific geographical area of this intense chase.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Saul also and his men went to seek [him]."**: This opening clause immediately establishes the primary antagonist and his objective. "Saul also" indicates his personal involvement and unwavering commitment to the pursuit, suggesting a continuation of his obsessive hunt. The mention of "his men" implies a significant force, emphasizing the overwhelming odds against David and the king's vast resources dedicated to this singular goal. The verb "seek" conveys a deliberate and determined effort to locate and capture David.
* **"And they told David: wherefore he came down into a rock, and abode in the wilderness of Maon."**: This segment reveals David's intelligence network, indicating he was not without sources of information regarding Saul's movements. Upon receiving this critical intel ("they told David"), he acts decisively and strategically. His movement "down into a rock" suggests seeking a defensible position, likely a cave or a natural fortress within the rugged terrain, to gain a tactical advantage or concealment. His "abode" (staying) in the wilderness of Maon signifies a temporary, chosen refuge in a desolate area, highlighting his transient and precarious existence as a fugitive.
* **"And when Saul heard [that], he pursued after David in the wilderness of Maon."**: This final clause reiterates Saul's relentless nature. The phrase "when Saul heard [that]" indicates his immediate reaction to new information, showing his constant vigilance and readiness to continue the chase. The repetition of "pursued after David in the wilderness of Maon" emphasizes the intensity and geographical focus of the hunt, underscoring the cat-and-mouse game playing out in this specific, harsh landscape. It highlights Saul's unwavering determination to capture David, following him into the very stronghold David had chosen.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to enhance its dramatic impact and thematic depth. **Repetition** is evident in the repeated mention of "the wilderness of Maon," which emphasizes the specific, harsh geographical setting where this intense pursuit takes place, reinforcing the idea of a prolonged, desperate chase. There is a subtle **Irony** in David's seeking refuge in "Maon," a name meaning "dwelling" or "habitation," while he is a homeless fugitive, constantly on the move due to Saul's hostility. The phrase "came down into a rock" serves as **Foreshadowing** for the miraculous escape that immediately follows in the narrative, where David is saved at "the Rock of Escape" ([1 Samuel 23:26-28](/1_samuel/23-26 "1 Samuel 23:26-28 - The Rock of Escape")). This also creates a **Contrast** between Saul's overwhelming power and David's vulnerability, yet hints at David's strategic cunning and reliance on the natural environment for survival. The vivid description of Saul's pursuit and David's flight also contributes to a sense of **Suspense**, keeping the reader engaged in the outcome of this dangerous encounter.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 23:25, though a brief snapshot, is profoundly theological in its implications, serving as a powerful testament to God's unwavering providence amidst human hostility. It illustrates the divine protection extended to God's anointed, even when human circumstances seem dire and overwhelming. David's ability to constantly evade Saul, despite the king's vast resources and relentless pursuit, is not merely a result of his own cunning but a clear demonstration of God's sovereign hand at work, preserving His chosen vessel for the future of Israel. This verse underscores the theme that God's plans cannot be thwarted by human opposition, no matter how powerful or persistent. It also highlights the spiritual battle underlying the physical conflict, where Saul's actions are driven by a spirit of paranoia and rebellion against God's will, while David's reliance on God, even in flight, exemplifies faith under duress.

* [Psalm 57:1](/psalms/57-1 "Psalm 57:1 - Refuge in the Shadow of God's Wings")
* [Psalm 18:1-3](/psalms/18-1 "Psalm 18:1-3 - The Lord is My Rock")
* [Psalm 34:19](/psalms/34-19 "Psalm 34:19 - Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse offers profound insights into enduring periods of intense pressure, unjust persecution, or relentless opposition in our own lives. Like David, we may find ourselves in situations where adversaries seem overwhelming, resources are scarce, and the path forward is unclear. David's response—receiving intelligence, acting prudently, and seeking refuge in a "rock"—serves as a model for navigating such trials. It teaches us that while we are called to exercise wisdom and utilize the resources available to us, our ultimate trust and security must rest in God's sovereign protection. The fact that David consistently survived Saul's determined efforts reminds us that God is faithful to His promises and will preserve His people, even in the most desperate circumstances. This passage encourages perseverance, reminding us that even in the wilderness, God provides a "dwelling" and a "rock" of refuge for those who trust in Him. It calls us to remain vigilant, discerning, and prayerfully responsive to God's leading, even when the path is fraught with danger.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do you typically respond when you feel relentlessly pursued or unjustly targeted?**
* **In what ways can you emulate David's prudence and strategic thinking while maintaining your trust in God's ultimate deliverance?**
* **What "rocks" or sources of refuge (spiritual, communal, personal) do you seek out when facing overwhelming pressure?**
* **How does the theme of God's divine providence in David's life encourage you in your own struggles with seemingly insurmountable obstacles?**

### FAQ
**Why was Saul so obsessed with pursuing David?**

Answer: Saul's obsession stemmed from a complex mix of jealousy, paranoia, and a deep-seated fear of losing his kingdom. After God had rejected Saul as king and anointed David ([1 Samuel 15:23](/1_samuel/15-23 "1 Samuel 15:23 - God Rejects Saul") and [1 Samuel 16:13](/1_samuel/16-13 "1 Samuel 16:13 - David Anointed King")), an evil spirit tormented him ([1 Samuel 16:14](/1_samuel/16-14 "1 Samuel 16:14 - Saul Tormented by an Evil Spirit")). David's popularity, military success, and divine favor were perceived by Saul as direct threats to his throne and legacy. This fear consumed him, leading to an irrational and relentless pursuit, viewing David not just as a rival but as an enemy of the state who must be eliminated.

**How did David manage to know Saul's movements and evade him so consistently?**

Answer: David's consistent evasion of Saul was a combination of divine protection, his own strategic acumen, and an informal intelligence network. The text often states that "they told David" (as in [1 Samuel 23:25](/1_samuel/23-25 "1 Samuel 23:25 - Saul Pursues David in Maon") and [1 Samuel 23:19](/1_samuel/23-19 "1 Samuel 23:19 - Ziphites Betray David")). This suggests he had loyal informants, perhaps sympathetic locals, or even spies within Saul's camp or among his own growing band of followers who kept him abreast of Saul's plans. Additionally, David's intimate knowledge of the rugged Judean wilderness, combined with his military experience, allowed him to choose defensible positions and move strategically, making him a difficult target for Saul's larger, less agile forces. Ultimately, the narrative attributes his survival to God's sovereign hand.

**What is the significance of David seeking refuge in "a rock" in the wilderness of Maon?**

Answer: The "rock" (Hebrew: _sela'_) signifies a natural fortress, a craggy cliff, or a cave system common in the Judean wilderness. For David, it represented a strategic defensive position, offering concealment and a tactical advantage against a larger pursuing force. The wilderness of Maon, despite its name meaning "dwelling," was a desolate, rugged area, ideal for a fugitive seeking to evade capture. The significance lies in David's practical wisdom in utilizing the natural environment for protection, while simultaneously highlighting his vulnerable state as a man without a fixed home. The "rock" also foreshadows the dramatic escape at the "Rock of Escape" ([1 Samuel 23:26-28](/1_samuel/23-26 "1 Samuel 23:26-28 - The Rock of Escape")), emphasizing God's consistent provision of refuge for His anointed, often through natural means.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The relentless pursuit of David by King Saul in 1 Samuel 23:25 serves as a profound Old Testament type, foreshadowing the unjust persecution and suffering of Jesus Christ. Just as Saul, the reigning king, sought to destroy David, God's anointed future king, so too did the religious and political authorities of Jesus's day relentlessly pursue and ultimately crucify the true King of Israel, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). David's flight into the wilderness and his reliance on "a rock" for refuge prefigures Christ's own periods of withdrawal into desolate places ([Matthew 4:1](/matthew/4-1 "Matthew 4:1 - Jesus in the Wilderness")) and His ultimate reliance on the Father's will and protection. While David found temporary refuge in physical rocks, Jesus is the ultimate spiritual [Rock of our salvation](/psalms/95-1 "Psalm 95:1 - The Rock of Our Salvation"), the [cornerstone rejected by men but chosen by God](/1_peter/2-7 "1 Peter 2:7 - Christ the Cornerstone"). David's eventual deliverance and establishment as king, despite overwhelming odds, points to Christ's resurrection and ascension, where He was vindicated by God and seated at the [right hand of the Father](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ Seated at God's Right Hand"), reigning eternally over His kingdom, a kingdom that cannot be shaken by any earthly pursuit or opposition ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - A Kingdom That Cannot Be Shaken")).

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 23:28

Wherefore Saul returned from pursuing after David, and went against the Philistines: therefore they called that place Selahammahlekoth.

Judges 15:8

And he smote them hip and thigh with a great slaughter: and he went down and dwelt in the top of the rock Etam.