1 Samuel 23:29

And David went up from thence, and dwelt in strong holds at Engedi.

And David {H1732} went up {H5927} from thence, and dwelt {H3427} in strong holds {H4679} at Engedi {H5872}.

From there David went up and lived in the strongholds of 'Ein-Gedi.

And David went up from there and lived in the strongholds of En-gedi.

And David went up from thence, and dwelt in the strongholds of En-gedi.

Commentary

1 Samuel 23:29 finds David continuing his life as a fugitive, seeking refuge from the relentless pursuit of King Saul. This verse marks a significant geographical and strategic move after a period of intense danger and divine intervention.

Context

This verse immediately follows David's dramatic escape from Saul in the wilderness of Maon. Saul had David cornered, but a sudden Philistine invasion diverted Saul's attention, allowing David to slip away. The phrase "went up from thence" refers to his departure from that perilous situation. David, a man after God's own heart, was constantly on the move, relying on God's protection while navigating hostile territories and the treachery of Saul.

Key Themes

  • Divine Providence and Deliverance: Even in dire circumstances, God consistently provides a way of escape for David. The Philistine invasion was a direct act of divine intervention, showcasing God's faithfulness to His chosen one.
  • Refuge and Security: Engedi serves as a physical representation of a safe haven. David, despite being hunted, was able to find secure "strong holds" where he and his men could shelter from danger. This parallels the spiritual truth of finding refuge in God.
  • Perseverance in Adversity: David's journey is a testament to enduring hardship. He does not give up or despair but continues to trust in God's plan, even when it means living in caves and wildernesses.

Linguistic Insights

The name Engedi (Hebrew: ืขึตื™ืŸ ื’ึถึผื“ึดื™, โ€˜Ein Gedi) literally means "fountain of the kid (young goat)." This name aptly describes the region: a desert oasis with fresh springs and steep cliffs, providing ideal terrain for wild goats and, crucially, for hiding. The "strong holds" (Hebrew: ืžึฐืฆึธื“ื•ึนืช, mฤ•tsฤdลt) refer to natural fortresses, mountain fastnesses, or fortified places, emphasizing the rugged, defensible nature of the Engedi area.

Related Scriptures

David's flight to Engedi is significant because it sets the stage for one of the most pivotal encounters between him and Saul. It is in the caves of Engedi that David would later have the opportunity to kill Saul but chose instead to spare his life, demonstrating his respect for God's anointed king and his own integrity.

Practical Application

This verse offers a powerful message for believers today. When facing intense pressure, persecution, or seemingly insurmountable challenges, we can find comfort in the knowledge that God is our ultimate refuge. Just as He provided a safe haven for David in Engedi, He promises to be our rock, fortress, and deliverer. It encourages us to persevere through trials, trusting that God's providence will always create a way of escape or provide strength to endure.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 20:2 (5 votes)

    Then there came some that told Jehoshaphat, saying, There cometh a great multitude against thee from beyond the sea on this side Syria; and, behold, they [be] in Hazazontamar, which [is] Engedi.

  • Joshua 15:62 (4 votes)

    And Nibshan, and the city of Salt, and Engedi; six cities with their villages.

  • Ezekiel 47:10 (3 votes)

    And it shall come to pass, [that] the fishers shall stand upon it from Engedi even unto Eneglaim; they shall be a [place] to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds, as the fish of the great sea, exceeding many.

  • Song Of Solomon 1:14 (3 votes)

    My beloved [is] unto me [as] a cluster of camphire in the vineyards of Engedi.

  • Genesis 14:7 (2 votes)

    And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which [is] Kadesh, and smote all the country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelt in Hazezontamar.

  • 1 Samuel 24:1 (2 votes)

    ยถ And it came to pass, when Saul was returned from following the Philistines, that it was told him, saying, Behold, David [is] in the wilderness of Engedi.