1 Samuel 27:9

Whenever David attacked a territory, he did not leave a man or woman alive, but he took the flocks and herds, the donkeys, camels, and clothing. Then he would return to Achish,

Study Bible

Whenever David attacked a land
This phrase indicates the frequent military campaigns led by David during his time in Philistine territory. The Hebrew root for "attacked" is "נכה" (nakah), which means to strike or smite. Historically, David's actions were strategic, aimed at securing resources and eliminating potential threats. This reflects the harsh realities of ancient Near Eastern warfare, where survival often depended on preemptive strikes against enemies.

he did not leave a man or woman alive
The phrase underscores the totality of David's actions during these raids. The Hebrew word for "leave" is "חיה" (chayah), meaning to let live or preserve life. In the context of ancient warfare, this was a common practice to prevent future retaliation. From a theological perspective, this can be seen as David ensuring the security of his people by eliminating those who might later pose a threat.

but he took sheep and cattle, donkeys and camels, and clothing
This highlights the spoils of war that David collected. The Hebrew word for "took" is "לקח" (laqach), which means to seize or capture. The livestock and clothing were valuable resources in the ancient world, essential for sustaining David's men and their families. This reflects the economic aspect of warfare, where victors often enriched themselves with the possessions of the vanquished.

Then he would return to Achish
Achish was the Philistine king of Gath, with whom David sought refuge from Saul. The Hebrew root for "return" is "שוב" (shuv), meaning to go back or restore. David's return to Achish signifies his tactical alliance with the Philistines, despite being an Israelite. This complex relationship illustrates David's cunning and adaptability, as he navigated the political landscape to ensure his survival and eventual rise to kingship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, who is currently living among the Philistines to escape King Saul's pursuit.

2. Achish
The king of Gath, a Philistine city, who provides refuge to David during his time of exile.

3. Philistines
A group of people who were often in conflict with Israel; David is living among them during this period.

4. Raids
David conducts raids against various groups, ensuring no survivors to prevent news of his actions from reaching Achish.

5. Ziklag
The town given to David by Achish, from which David launches his raids.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Timing
David's actions, while strategic, reflect a period of waiting for God's promise of kingship. Believers can learn to trust God's timing in their own lives.

Moral Complexity
David's raids raise questions about morality and ethics in warfare. Christians are called to navigate complex situations with wisdom and integrity.

God's Sovereignty
Despite David's circumstances, God's plan for his life remains intact. This reassures believers of God's sovereignty over their lives.

Strategic Wisdom
David's actions demonstrate strategic thinking and the importance of discernment in decision-making.

Faith in Adversity
David's faith during his time in Philistine territory serves as an example of maintaining faith in challenging situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's time among the Philistines reflect his trust in God's plan, and how can we apply this trust in our own lives?

2. What ethical considerations arise from David's actions in 1 Samuel 27:9, and how can Christians apply biblical principles to complex moral decisions today?

3. In what ways does David's strategic approach to his circumstances demonstrate wisdom, and how can we seek God's wisdom in our daily decisions?

4. How does the account of David's raids connect to the broader account of God's sovereignty and faithfulness in the Bible?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced adversity. How can David's example of faith and reliance on God encourage you in similar situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 21-22
Provides background on David's initial interactions with Achish and his decision to flee to Philistine territory.

1 Samuel 30
Describes the aftermath of David's time in Ziklag, including the Amalekite raid and David's response.

2 Samuel 5
Chronicles David's eventual rise to kingship over Israel, fulfilling God's promise.

Joshua 11:14
Offers a parallel in the complete destruction of enemies during conquest, reflecting a similar strategy of leaving no survivors.

Psalm 34
Written by David during his time with the Philistines, expressing trust in God despite his circumstances.