2 Samuel 23:14

And David [was] then in an hold, and the garrison of the Philistines [was] then [in] Bethlehem.

And David {H1732} was then in an hold {H4686}, and the garrison {H4673} of the Philistines {H6430} was then in Bethlehem {H1035}.

At that time David was in the fortress, and the garrison of the P'lishtim was in Beit-Lechem

At that time David was in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was at Bethlehem.

And David was then in the stronghold; and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Beth-lehem.

Commentary

Context and Setting

This verse, 2 Samuel 23:14, provides the immediate backdrop for one of the most striking acts of loyalty and devotion recorded in David's life. It comes within the chapter listing David's mighty men and his "last words," setting the scene for the heroic deed of three of his chief warriors. The historical context is a period of ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines, who were persistent enemies vying for control of the land.

The mention of David "in an hold" (a stronghold or fortified position) indicates a strategic military stance, likely a defensive refuge or a base of operations. The presence of a "garrison of the Philistines" in Bethlehem, David's ancestral hometown (1 Samuel 17:12), highlights the extent of the Philistine occupation and the constant threat faced by the Israelites. This occupation of Bethlehem is crucial, as it leads directly to David's longing for water from the well of his youth, detailed in the following verses.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Military Tension and Occupation: The verse vividly portrays a volatile situation. David, Israel's king, is in a fortified position, while his hometown is under enemy control. This underscores the perpetual state of warfare during David's reign.
  • Strategic Importance of Locations: Both David's "hold" and Bethlehem were significant points in the ancient landscape, critical for military control and defense. The narrative emphasizes the strategic chess game played out between Israel and the Philistines.
  • Foreshadowing of Loyalty and Sacrifice: This seemingly simple statement serves as vital exposition for the profound act of devotion that follows. It sets the stage for the extraordinary risk David's mighty men take to fulfill their leader's casual wish for water from the well of Bethlehem, illustrating their deep loyalty and courage (2 Samuel 23:15-17).

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "hold" is metzudah (ืžึฐืฆึปื“ึธื”), which signifies a fortress, stronghold, or fortified place. This term is often used in the Old Testament to describe places of refuge and defense, such as the cave of Adullam where David gathered his men. The word for "garrison" is netziv (ื ึฐืฆึดื™ื‘), which refers to a military post, an appointed officer, or a permanent military presence. Its use here clearly indicates the Philistines' firm and oppressive control over Bethlehem.

Practical Application

Though brief, this verse offers valuable insights into leadership, loyalty, and the nature of conflict. It reminds us that leaders often operate in challenging circumstances, facing opposition and strategic dilemmas. For believers, David's predicament can symbolize the spiritual battles we face, where "strongholds" of sin or external pressures may seem to occupy significant areas of our lives or communities. Just as David's men demonstrated incredible loyalty in a perilous situation, we are called to stand firm and show faithfulness, even when circumstances are difficult or risky.

The verse also highlights how even seemingly small details (like the location of an enemy garrison) can set the stage for profound acts of sacrifice and devotion, demonstrating the powerful bonds that can form in shared adversity.

Note: If the commentary doesnโ€™t appear instantly, please allow 2โ€“5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 22:4

    And he brought them before the king of Moab: and they dwelt with him all the while that David was in the hold.

  • 1 Samuel 22:5

    And the prophet Gad said unto David, Abide not in the hold; depart, and get thee into the land of Judah. Then David departed, and came into the forest of Hareth.

  • 1 Samuel 13:23

    And the garrison of the Philistines went out to the passage of Michmash.

  • 1 Samuel 14:1

    ยถ Now it came to pass upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over to the Philistines' garrison, that [is] on the other side. But he told not his father.

  • 1 Samuel 22:1

    ยถ David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard [it], they went down thither to him.

  • 1 Samuel 24:22

    And David sware unto Saul. And Saul went home; but David and his men gat them up unto the hold.

  • 1 Samuel 13:4

    And all Israel heard say [that] Saul had smitten a garrison of the Philistines, and [that] Israel also was had in abomination with the Philistines. And the people were called together after Saul to Gilgal.
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