1 Samuel 26:6

KJV

¶ Then answered David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, brother to Joab, saying, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? And Abishai said, I will go down with thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then answered {H6030} David {H1732} and said {H559} to Ahimelech {H288} the Hittite {H2850}, and to Abishai {H52} the son {H1121} of Zeruiah {H6870}, brother {H251} to Joab {H3097}, saying {H559}, Who will go down {H3381} with me to Saul {H7586} to the camp {H4264}? And Abishai {H52} said {H559}, I will go down {H3381} with thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

David said to Achimelekh the Hitti and Avishai the son of Tz'ruyah, Yo'av's brother, "Who will go down with me to Sha'ul in the camp?" Avishai said, "I will go down with you."

Berean Standard Bible

And David asked Ahimelech the Hittite and Abishai son of Zeruiah, Joab’s brother, “Who will go down with me to Saul in the camp?” “I will go with you,” answered Abishai.

American Standard Version

Then answered David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, brother to Joab, saying, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? And Abishai said, I will go down with thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 26:6 captures a pivotal moment in David's flight from King Saul, revealing David's audacious courage and the unwavering loyalty of his closest followers. As Saul relentlessly pursues David, convinced he is a threat to his throne, David learns of Saul's encampment. Instead of fleeing further, David boldly poses a question to two of his men, Ahimelech the Hittite and Abishai, brother of Joab: "Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp?" Abishai's immediate and resolute reply, "I will go down with thee," sets the stage for a dramatic nocturnal infiltration that will once again demonstrate David's profound respect for God's anointed and his trust in divine providence, rather than human vengeance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a larger narrative arc depicting David's anointing as king, his rise to prominence, and King Saul's subsequent descent into jealousy, paranoia, and relentless pursuit of David. The events of 1 Samuel 26 bear striking resemblance to those in [1 Samuel 24](/1-samuel/24 "1 Samuel 24 - David Spares Saul in the Cave"), where David also had an opportunity to kill Saul but refrained. This repetition emphasizes David's consistent character and his unwavering commitment to not harming "the Lord's anointed." In chapter 26, David, alerted by the Ziphites to Saul's presence, sends out spies to confirm Saul's exact location. The verse immediately precedes David's daring infiltration of Saul's camp under the cover of night, where he finds Saul and his men asleep, presenting yet another test of David's faith and integrity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The concept of "the Lord's anointed" was central to Israelite kingship. Saul, though rejected by God, still held the divine anointing in the eyes of many, including David. To harm him would be to lift one's hand against God's chosen representative, a grave offense. The setting is the wilderness of Ziph, a rugged, desolate region in Judah, which provided natural hiding places for David and his men but also allowed for military encampments. Military camps in ancient Israel were typically organized with the king at the center, surrounded by his elite guard, making an infiltration like David's exceptionally dangerous and a testament to his strategic prowess and the deep sleep God had caused to fall upon Saul's camp (as revealed in subsequent verses). The presence of "Ahimelech the Hittite" also hints at the diverse composition of David's growing band of followers, including non-Israelites who pledged loyalty to him.
* **Key Themes:** Several major themes converge in this verse. **David's Daring Leadership** is paramount; he is not merely reacting to Saul's pursuit but proactively seeking to understand and control the situation, even if it means entering enemy territory. This highlights his strategic mind and audacious courage, qualities that would later define his reign. The theme of **Loyalty and Devotion** is powerfully demonstrated by Abishai's immediate and unequivocal response, showcasing the strong bonds forged between David and his "mighty men." Abishai, as brother to Joab, was a key figure in David's inner circle, consistently proving his fierce commitment. Most profoundly, this verse contributes to the overarching theme of **Trust in God's Providence and Timing**. While not explicitly stated here, David's actions throughout this chapter, particularly his refusal to harm Saul, are rooted in his conviction that God would establish him as king in His own time and way, without David having to resort to violence against God's anointed. This courageous foray into Saul's camp is a display of David's reliance on divine protection and a profound respect for God's sovereign plan, as he articulates later in [1 Samuel 26:10](/1-samuel/26-10 "1 Samuel 26:10 - David's Trust in God's Judgment on Saul").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **answered (Hebrew, _vayya'an'_):** While often translated simply as "answered," this Hebrew verb can also imply "responded" or "spoke up," often in a context where a question was not explicitly posed, but rather an internal thought or a situation prompted the utterance. Here, it suggests David's decisive and intentional initiation of a dangerous plan, not merely a reply to someone else's query.
* **go down (Hebrew, יָרַד, _yarad'_):** This verb literally means "to descend" or "to go down," often used when moving from a higher elevation to a lower one (e.g., from a hill to a valley where a camp might be). Metaphorically, it carries the connotation of entering a dangerous, vulnerable, or even morally compromising situation. In this context, it powerfully conveys the perilous nature of infiltrating Saul's camp, a descent into the heart of the enemy's domain.
* **camp (Hebrew, מַחֲנֶה, _machaneh'_):** Refers to a military encampment or a temporary dwelling place. In biblical narratives, a "camp" is often a place of organized military presence, but also a place of vulnerability when asleep. For David to "go down to Saul to the camp" means to enter the very stronghold of his pursuer, a place of extreme danger, yet also, as the narrative unfolds, a place where God's protective hand would be evident.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then answered David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, brother to Joab, saying,"**: This opening clause establishes the speaker, David, and his audience, two key figures among his men. Ahimelech the Hittite is less known, possibly a mercenary or a loyal ally from a non-Israelite background, indicating the diverse composition of David's followers. Abishai, however, is a prominent and consistently loyal warrior, known for his fierce devotion to David and his occasional impetuousness. His kinship to Joab, David's future commander, highlights his significant standing within David's inner circle, making his immediate response particularly weighty.
* **"Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp?"**: This is David's bold and strategic question. It is a direct challenge, not just an inquiry, inviting a volunteer for an extremely dangerous reconnaissance mission. The phrasing "go down with me" implies shared risk and a need for companionship in a perilous undertaking. David's initiative in approaching Saul's camp, rather than merely reacting to Saul's pursuit, underscores his proactive and courageous leadership, demonstrating his desire to assess the situation directly and potentially act upon it (though not with malice).
* **"And Abishai said, I will go down with thee."**: Abishai's immediate and unequivocal response reveals his deep loyalty, courage, and willingness to follow David into any danger. This swift affirmation is characteristic of Abishai's personality throughout the narratives, often being the first to volunteer for risky endeavors or to suggest aggressive action, showcasing his unwavering commitment to David's cause. His willingness to "go down" with David signifies his readiness to face the extreme peril of entering the enemy's heartland.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Dialogue** to advance the plot and reveal character. David's question is direct and challenging, immediately establishing the high stakes of the situation and David's audacious leadership. Abishai's swift and unhesitating response through dialogue powerfully demonstrates his unwavering **Loyalty** and courage. There is also an element of **Foreshadowing**, as David's question sets the stage for the dramatic and dangerous infiltration of Saul's camp that is about to occur. Furthermore, an implicit **Contrast** is present between David's calm, strategic initiative and Saul's frantic, paranoid pursuit, highlighting David's reliance on divine guidance versus Saul's self-reliance and fear. The very act of David, the pursued, initiating a move towards his pursuer can be seen as **Irony**, subverting typical expectations of flight and chase.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, though brief, is rich in theological implications, particularly concerning the nature of leadership, loyalty, and divine sovereignty. David's question and Abishai's response exemplify a fearless trust in God's protection even in the face of extreme danger. David's strategic boldness is not recklessness but a calculated move rooted in his conviction that God is with him and will deliver him. His subsequent actions in the camp (not harming Saul) further underscore his profound respect for God's anointed and his commitment to allowing God to execute justice and establish His chosen king in His own time. This patience and non-retaliation, even when provoked, serve as a powerful theological statement about waiting on the Lord and entrusting vengeance to Him.

* [1 Samuel 24:6](/1-samuel/24-6 "1 Samuel 24:6 - David's Declaration About Not Harming the Lord's Anointed")
* [1 Samuel 26:10](/1-samuel/26-10 "1 Samuel 26:10 - David's Trust in God's Judgment on Saul")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance Belongs to God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Samuel 26:6 offers profound insights for believers navigating challenges and leadership roles today. David's willingness to confront danger head-on, not out of recklessness but strategic discernment and trust in God, reminds us that courage in adversity is a hallmark of faith. We are called not to shrink from difficult circumstances but to prayerfully seek God's guidance, even when it leads us into seemingly perilous situations. Abishai's immediate and selfless loyalty serves as a powerful example of supporting righteous leadership and committing wholeheartedly to a shared, God-honoring vision. In our own lives, this translates to faithfully serving those God has placed in authority, and to being reliable and committed members of our communities and churches. The narrative implicitly encourages us to cultivate a spirit of reliance on divine providence, understanding that God's timing and methods are superior to our own impulsive reactions. We are challenged to discern when to act boldly and when to wait patiently, always trusting that God is sovereign over all circumstances, even those involving our adversaries.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I respond when faced with persistent opposition or unfair treatment? Am I tempted to take matters into my own hands, or do I seek God's strategic guidance?**
* **In what areas of my life am I tempted to bypass God's timing and resort to my own strength or cunning to achieve a desired outcome?**
* **What does it mean to exhibit courageous and discerning leadership in my sphere of influence, whether at home, work, or in ministry?**
* **How can I cultivate deeper loyalty and support for righteous leadership around me, even when it requires personal sacrifice or entering uncomfortable situations?**

### FAQ

**Why did David ask "Who will go down with me?" instead of just going alone?**

Answer: David's question was a strategic move, showcasing his leadership and prudence. First, it was a test of loyalty; he needed to know who was truly committed to him, especially for such a dangerous mission. Abishai's immediate response confirmed his unwavering devotion. Second, having a companion provided a witness to his actions, particularly his decision not to harm Saul, which would be crucial for his reputation and legitimacy. Third, it was a practical matter of shared risk and reconnaissance; two sets of eyes and ears are better than one in a perilous environment. Finally, David's leadership style often involved collaboration and empowering his men, rather than acting in isolation.

**Who were Ahimelech the Hittite and Abishai?**

Answer: Ahimelech the Hittite is less prominently featured in the biblical narrative. His inclusion here suggests that David's growing band of followers was diverse, including non-Israelites who pledged loyalty to him, possibly as mercenaries or allies. The Hittites were a prominent people group in the ancient Near East, known for their military prowess. Abishai, on the other hand, was a highly significant figure. He was the son of Zeruiah, David's sister, making him David's nephew, and the brother of Joab and Asahel, both formidable warriors. Abishai was one of David's "mighty men" and consistently demonstrated fierce loyalty and courage, often being the first to volunteer for dangerous tasks or to propose aggressive action, as seen later in [1 Samuel 26:8](/1-samuel/26-8 "1 Samuel 26:8 - Abishai's Eagerness to Strike Saul").

**How does this event compare to 1 Samuel 24?**

Answer: The events in [1 Samuel 26](/1-samuel/26 "1 Samuel 26 - David Spares Saul a Second Time") are remarkably similar to those in [1 Samuel 24](/1-samuel/24 "1 Samuel 24 - David Spares Saul in the Cave"), serving as a powerful literary and theological parallel. In both instances, David has Saul completely in his power and could easily kill him, but chooses not to. Both narratives highlight David's profound respect for "the Lord's anointed" and his unwavering trust in God's timing and justice. The key differences lie in the details: in chapter 24, David cuts off a piece of Saul's robe in a cave; in chapter 26, David takes Saul's spear and water jug from his side while he sleeps in the camp. Both acts serve as undeniable proof to Saul that David had the opportunity to kill him but chose mercy, reinforcing David's character and God's protective hand over him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Samuel 26:6, with David's courageous initiative and Abishai's loyal response, prefigures the ultimate demonstration of courageous, self-sacrificial love found in Jesus Christ. David, though pursued unjustly, enters the enemy's camp not to destroy but to demonstrate his integrity and trust in God's timing. This foreshadows Christ, who, though innocent, "went down" into the very heart of humanity's brokenness and the domain of death, not to wield a sword against His enemies, but to offer Himself as the ultimate sacrifice. Like David, who refused to lift his hand against God's anointed, Jesus refused to retaliate against those who persecuted Him, even rebuking Peter for drawing his sword in Gethsemane, stating that those who live by the sword will die by the sword ([Matthew 26:52](/matthew/26-52 "Matthew 26:52 - Jesus Rebukes Peter's Sword")). Christ's mission was characterized by a patient endurance of suffering and a profound trust in the Father's will, echoing David's reliance on divine providence. He was "led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth" ([Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - Christ's Silent Suffering")). The loyalty of Abishai to David, willing to face death, pales in comparison to the Father's perfect faithfulness to the Son, and the Spirit's empowering presence in Christ's mission. Ultimately, Christ's descent into death and His subsequent resurrection represent the true "going down" and ultimate victory, fulfilling God's sovereign plan not through human violence, but through divine love and obedience unto death ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")), securing salvation for all who believe.

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

Judges 7:10

But if thou fear to go down, go thou with Phurah thy servant down to the host:

Judges 7:11

And thou shalt hear what they say; and afterward shall thine hands be strengthened to go down unto the host. Then went he down with Phurah his servant unto the outside of the armed men that [were] in the host.

2 Samuel 2:18

¶ And there were three sons of Zeruiah there, Joab, and Abishai, and Asahel: and Asahel [was as] light of foot as a wild roe.

2 Samuel 12:9

Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife [to be] thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon.

2 Samuel 11:6

¶ And David sent to Joab, [saying], Send me Uriah the Hittite. And Joab sent Uriah to David.

1 Chronicles 2:15

Ozem the sixth, David the seventh:

1 Chronicles 2:16

Whose sisters [were] Zeruiah, and Abigail. And the sons of Zeruiah; Abishai, and Joab, and Asahel, three.