1 Samuel 27:2

And David arose, and he passed over with the six hundred men that [were] with him unto Achish, the son of Maoch, king of Gath.

And David {H1732} arose {H6965}, and he passed over {H5674} with the six {H8337} hundred {H3967} men {H376} that were with him unto Achish {H397}, the son {H1121} of Maoch {H4582}, king {H4428} of Gath {H1661}.

So David set out with his six hundred men and passed on to Akhish the son of Ma'okh, king of Gat.

So David set out with his six hundred men and went to Achish son of Maoch, the king of Gath.

And David arose, and passed over, he and the six hundred men that were with him, unto Achish the son of Maoch, king of Gath.

Commentary

1 Samuel 27:2 details a pivotal moment in David’s life as he continues to flee from King Saul’s relentless pursuit. This verse describes David’s decision to seek refuge in the territory of Israel’s long-standing enemies, the Philistines.

Context

After multiple attempts on his life by King Saul, and despite having twice spared Saul's life (as seen in 1 Samuel 24 and 1 Samuel 26), David felt his time was running out. He concluded that he would eventually perish by Saul’s hand if he remained in Israelite territory. This verse marks David’s drastic decision to leave Judah and seek asylum with Achish, the king of Gath, a major Philistine city. This was a dangerous move, as Gath was famously the hometown of Goliath, whom David had defeated earlier (see 1 Samuel 17:4).

Key Themes

  • Desperation and Fear: David, a man of great faith and courage, reaches a point of deep weariness and fear. His decision to flee to the Philistines, traditionally Israel's enemies, reflects a moment of human weakness and a lapse in trusting God's immediate protection, despite numerous past deliverances.
  • Seeking Refuge: This act highlights David's precarious situation and the political realities of the time. He sought political asylum, bringing his loyal band of "six hundred men" and their families, indicating a long-term commitment to this refuge.
  • God's Providence: Even in David's flawed decision, God's overarching providence is seen as He continues to protect and guide David, eventually using this period to further prepare him for kingship.

Linguistic Insights

The name "Gath" (גת) is one of the five major Philistine city-states, known for its strong military and strategic importance. Achish (אכיש) is a Philistine king who previously encountered David when David feigned madness to escape him (1 Samuel 21:10-15). The fact that David returns to Achish suggests either a miscalculation on David's part or a desperate hope that Achish would see value in having a skilled warrior like David defect from Israel.

Practical Application

This verse offers several insights for believers today:

  • Human Frailty: Even heroes of faith like David experience moments of doubt, fear, and make decisions that are not ideal. It reminds us that God works through imperfect people.
  • Trust in Adversity: While David's fear led him to Gath, the narrative encourages us to continually lean on God's promises and protection, especially when circumstances seem overwhelming. The psalms penned during David's time in Gath, such as Psalm 34 and Psalm 56, beautifully illustrate his eventual return to trust and praise for God's deliverance.
  • Unconventional Paths: Sometimes God's plan unfolds in unexpected ways, even through our detours or less-than-perfect choices, ultimately fulfilling His sovereign purpose.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 25:13 (4 votes)

    And David said unto his men, Gird ye on every man his sword. And they girded on every man his sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the stuff.

  • 1 Samuel 21:10 (4 votes)

    ¶ And David arose, and fled that day for fear of Saul, and went to Achish the king of Gath.

  • 1 Kings 2:39 (2 votes)

    And it came to pass at the end of three years, that two of the servants of Shimei ran away unto Achish son of Maachah king of Gath. And they told Shimei, saying, Behold, thy servants [be] in Gath.

  • 1 Kings 2:40 (2 votes)

    And Shimei arose, and saddled his ass, and went to Gath to Achish to seek his servants: and Shimei went, and brought his servants from Gath.

  • 1 Samuel 30:8 (2 votes)

    And David enquired at the LORD, saying, Shall I pursue after this troop? shall I overtake them? And he answered him, Pursue: for thou shalt surely overtake [them], and without fail recover [all].