1 Samuel 23:29

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

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

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Following a miraculous deliverance from King Saul's relentless pursuit in the wilderness of Maon, 1 Samuel 23:29 marks a pivotal geographical and strategic shift for David. He relocates to the rugged, defensible terrain of Engedi, a desert oasis on the western shore of the Dead Sea. This move underscores David's ongoing fugitive status and the extreme peril he faced, yet simultaneously highlights God's faithful provision of refuge and strategic advantage amidst intense persecution, setting the stage for further dramatic encounters in his journey toward the throne.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The immediate literary context of [1 Samuel 23](/1_samuel/23 "1 Samuel 23 - David and Saul in the Wilderness") is one of extreme peril and miraculous deliverance for David. He had been betrayed by the Ziphites, who informed Saul of his whereabouts, leading to David being cornered by King Saul in the wilderness of Maon. This situation was so dire that Saul famously declared, "God has delivered him into my hand!" ([1 Samuel 23:7](/1_samuel/23-7 "1 Samuel 23:7 - Saul's Confidence")). However, at the very moment Saul was closing in, a sudden and divinely orchestrated Philistine raid on Israel diverted Saul's attention, forcing him to abandon his pursuit of David ([1 Samuel 23:27-28](/1_samuel/23-27-28 "1 Samuel 23:27-28 - Philistine Invasion Diverts Saul")). Thus, the phrase "went up from thence" refers to David's strategic and swift departure from this near-fatal encounter, moving from the exposed wilderness of Maon to a more secure, naturally fortified location. This verse serves as a crucial transition, showing David's prudent response to God's deliverance by seeking a new stronghold to continue his life as a fugitive, demonstrating his reliance on both divine intervention and practical wisdom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, especially during periods of political instability or royal persecution, fugitives like David relied heavily on the natural topography for survival. The "strong holds" mentioned were typically natural caves, rugged cliffs, and remote mountain fastnesses that offered both concealment and defensibility. Engedi, situated on the western shore of the Dead Sea, is a unique desert oasis characterized by abundant fresh water springs, lush vegetation, and steep, dramatic canyons and cliffs. This environment provided not only sustenance (water, food from wild goats) but also an an ideal network of hidden caves and elevated positions from which to observe and defend against approaching enemies. David's choice of Engedi reflects a deep understanding of guerrilla warfare and the strategic importance of terrain, a necessity for a man constantly hunted by a powerful king and his army. Culturally, such a life was one of extreme hardship, constant vigilance, and reliance on small, loyal bands of followers, a stark contrast to the life of a king's son-in-law and military commander.
* **Key Themes:** Several key themes converge in [1 Samuel 23:29](/1_samuel/23-29 "1 Samuel 23:29 - David's Flight to Engedi"). Firstly, **Divine Providence and Deliverance** is paramount; the miraculous Philistine diversion that saved David from certain capture at Maon ([1 Samuel 23:27-28](/1_samuel/23-27-28 "1 Samuel 23:27-28 - Philistine Invasion Diverts Saul")) powerfully illustrates God's active intervention on behalf of His anointed. This event underscores the overarching narrative of God's faithfulness to David, even when human circumstances seem hopeless, reinforcing the truth that God protects His chosen. Secondly, the theme of **Refuge and Security** is physically embodied by Engedi. David's choice to dwell in "strong holds" highlights the human need for safety, but also points to the deeper spiritual truth that God Himself is the ultimate refuge for His people, a theme frequently echoed in the Psalms, such as [Psalm 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God is our refuge and strength") and [Psalm 91:2](/psalms/91-2 "Psalm 91:2 - My refuge and my fortress"). Finally, **Perseverance in Adversity** is a hallmark of David's character throughout this period. Despite relentless pursuit, betrayal, and a life of constant movement and danger, David consistently demonstrates resilience and continued trust in God's plan, never giving up hope for the fulfillment of God's promise regarding his kingship, as seen throughout the narratives of [1 Samuel 21-31](/1_samuel/21 "1 Samuel 21-31 - David's Fugitive Years").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **David (Hebrew, _Dâvid'_):** Derived from a root meaning "loving" or "beloved," this name encapsulates the character of the man chosen by God to be king. Despite his fugitive status and the relentless pursuit by Saul, David remains God's anointed, the "beloved" one through whom God's covenant promises would be fulfilled. His actions in this verse, moving strategically to a place of safety, reflect both his human prudence and his divine calling, as he navigates a path fraught with danger while remaining faithful to his identity as God's chosen leader.
* **dwelt (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** This primitive root signifies "to sit down," and by implication, "to dwell" or "to remain." In the context of David's life as a fugitive, "dwelt" does not imply permanent settlement but rather a period of sustained residence, a strategic pause in his constant flight. It suggests finding a place of relative stability and security, even if temporary, allowing for rest, regrouping, and continued leadership of his men. This term highlights the transition from immediate escape to establishing a defensible base of operations.
* **strong holds (Hebrew, _mᵉtsad'_):** This term refers to a "fastness," "fort," or "munition," often implying a natural stronghold or a place of ambush and covert. In the rugged terrain of Engedi, these "strong holds" were primarily the numerous caves, elevated cliffs, and defensible positions within the deep canyons. They were not necessarily man-made fortifications but natural formations that offered significant protection and strategic advantage against a larger, pursuing army. The use of this word emphasizes the security and tactical benefit David sought and found, providing a secure base from which he and his men could operate, rest, and recover, while remaining difficult to dislodge.
* **Engedi (Hebrew, _ʻÊyn Gedîy'_):** Literally meaning "fountain of a kid (young goat)," this name perfectly describes the geographical reality of the location. Engedi is a vibrant oasis in the Judean Desert, characterized by perennial springs, lush vegetation, and dramatic wadis (dry riverbeds) that cut through steep limestone cliffs. This unique combination of water, food sources, and natural fortifications made it an ideal and well-known refuge for both wild animals and human fugitives. Its name evokes a sense of life and sustenance in an otherwise desolate region, making it a powerful symbol of God's provision in the wilderness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David went up from thence":** This phrase signifies David's immediate and strategic relocation following his narrow escape from Saul in the wilderness of Maon. The verb "went up" (Hebrew, _wayya‘al'_) can imply an ascent in elevation, which is geographically accurate for Engedi, situated above the Dead Sea. More importantly, it denotes a decisive and purposeful movement away from a place of extreme danger. It highlights David's prudence and his proactive response to God's miraculous deliverance; he doesn't linger in a vulnerable position but leverages the opportunity to secure a safer base, demonstrating both faith and practical wisdom.
* **"and dwelt in strong holds at Engedi":** This clause describes David's new place of refuge. The term "dwelt" (Hebrew, _wayyēshev'_) implies a period of residence, suggesting a more settled, albeit temporary, existence than his previous constant flight. The "strong holds" at Engedi, as previously noted, were natural fortresses—caves and defensible positions within the rugged terrain—which provided both concealment and a tactical advantage against Saul's forces. This choice of location was not random but a deliberate strategic decision, demonstrating David's resourcefulness and his continued reliance on the natural landscape for protection, all within the framework of God's guiding hand.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several subtle yet potent literary devices. **Geographical Significance** is paramount, as Engedi is not merely a location but a place whose natural features (perennial springs, towering cliffs, intricate cave systems) inherently convey themes of refuge, sustenance, and strategic advantage. The name itself, "fountain of the kid," carries a gentle **Symbolism**, hinting at life and vulnerability within a harsh environment, yet also resilience and God's provision in unexpected places. There is also an underlying **Irony** in David, God's anointed king-in-waiting, being forced to live as a hunted fugitive in caves and natural fortresses, while Saul, the rejected king, occupies the royal palace. This stark contrast highlights the inversion of human and divine perspectives on power and legitimacy, emphasizing that God's chosen one finds security not in man-made structures but in natural, divinely provided havens, setting the stage for future encounters where David's character is tested and proven in these very "strong holds."

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[1 Samuel 23:29](/1_samuel/23-29 "1 Samuel 23:29 - David's Flight to Engedi") powerfully illustrates the theme of divine refuge and the faithfulness of God to His chosen servants amidst persecution. David's flight to Engedi, following a miraculous deliverance, echoes a recurring pattern in biblical narratives where God provides a "way of escape" or a secure haven for His people when they are pursued by enemies. This physical refuge in the "strong holds" of Engedi serves as a tangible representation of the spiritual truth that God Himself is our ultimate fortress and deliverer. It foreshadows the broader theological concept that even in the wilderness experiences of life, God's presence ensures safety and provision for those who trust in Him, preparing them for future leadership and fulfillment of His promises, demonstrating that His protection is both miraculous and practical.

* [Psalm 18:2](/psalms/18-2 "Psalm 18:2 - The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer")
* [Psalm 57:1](/psalms/57-1 "Psalm 57:1 - Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge")
* [1 Samuel 24:1-7](/1_samuel/24-1-7 "1 Samuel 24:1-7 - David Spares Saul at Engedi")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of David's flight to Engedi in [1 Samuel 23:29](/1_samuel/23-29 "1 Samuel 23:29 - David's Flight to Engedi") offers profound lessons for contemporary believers facing adversity. David's life as a fugitive, marked by constant threat yet sustained by divine intervention, reminds us that God's providence is not limited to comfortable circumstances but is profoundly evident in our most vulnerable moments. When we feel cornered, betrayed, or relentlessly pursued by life's challenges, this verse encourages us to actively seek God's "strong holds"—whether they are literal safe spaces, spiritual disciplines like prayer and scripture, or the supportive community of faith. It calls us to exercise both faith and wisdom: trusting in God's miraculous deliverance while also prudently taking steps to secure our well-being. David's perseverance in the face of injustice serves as a powerful model, urging us not to despair but to continue trusting in God's overarching plan, knowing that He can turn even the most desolate wilderness into a place of refuge and preparation for His sovereign purposes. Our response to adversity, like David's, should be one of active faith, seeking both divine intervention and practical wisdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you currently feel "cornered" or relentlessly pursued, much like David by Saul?**
* **How has God provided a "way of escape" or a "strong hold" for you in past difficult situations, perhaps through unexpected circumstances or supportive relationships?**
* **What practical steps can you take to "dwell in strong holds"—whether spiritual, emotional, or relational—when facing current challenges, actively seeking God's provision and wisdom?**
* **How does David's perseverance in adversity encourage your own trust in God's providence and His ultimate plan for your life?**

### FAQ
**Why was Engedi such a strategic location for David?**

Answer: Engedi was strategically vital for David because of its unique geography. It is a desert oasis with perennial springs, providing essential water and vegetation in an otherwise arid region. More critically, its rugged terrain features steep cliffs, deep wadis (canyons), and numerous natural caves. These features offered excellent concealment from Saul's pursuing army, natural defenses against attack, and elevated vantage points for observation. It allowed David and his men to sustain themselves while remaining largely undetectable and highly defensible, making it an ideal "strong hold" for a fugitive leader. This strategic choice is further highlighted by the dramatic encounter that takes place there in [1 Samuel 24](/1_samuel/24 "1 Samuel 24 - David Spares Saul at Engedi").

**How does David's flight to Engedi demonstrate God's faithfulness?**

Answer: David's flight to Engedi directly follows a miraculous divine intervention. In [1 Samuel 23:27-28](/1_samuel/23-27-28 "1 Samuel 23:27-28 - Philistine Invasion Diverts Saul"), Saul had David completely surrounded in Maon, on the verge of capture. At that critical moment, a sudden Philistine invasion forced Saul to abandon his pursuit, allowing David to escape. His subsequent move to Engedi, a place of natural refuge, demonstrates God's continued provision of safety and strategic advantage. It underscores God's unwavering commitment to protect His anointed, even when human efforts seem futile, proving that His providence extends to providing both miraculous deliverance and practical, secure havens for His servants. This event reinforces the biblical truth that God is a faithful protector and provider for those He has chosen.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of David's flight to Engedi, finding refuge in "strong holds" from Saul's relentless persecution, serves as a powerful foreshadowing of Christ. David, the anointed king-in-waiting, is unjustly hunted and forced into a life of hardship, mirroring the ultimate persecution faced by Jesus, the true King of Israel. Just as God provided a physical refuge for David in the wilderness, so too does Christ offer ultimate spiritual refuge to all who are pursued by sin, death, and the forces of evil. Jesus Himself, the "stone the builders rejected" ([Psalm 118:22](/psalms/118-22 "Psalm 118:22 - The Stone the Builders Rejected")), became our "rock and our fortress" ([Psalm 18:2](/psalms/18-2 "Psalm 18:2 - The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer")). He experienced homelessness and rejection during His earthly ministry ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - The Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head")), yet through His sacrifice on the cross, He established the ultimate "strong hold" for humanity—salvation and eternal security in Him. His resurrection from the grave ([Romans 6:9](/romans/6-9 "Romans 6:9 - Christ's Resurrection")) is the definitive act of divine deliverance, providing a secure and eternal haven for all who believe, a fulfillment of the temporary, earthly refuge found by David at Engedi. In Christ, we find not just a temporary escape, but an everlasting dwelling place, safe from all spiritual adversaries and assured of ultimate victory.

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

2 Chronicles 20:2

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

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

Ezekiel 47:10

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

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

Genesis 14:7

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

¶ 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.