Achish, the king of Gath, is a significant figure in the narrative of David's life, particularly during the period when David was fleeing from King Saul. Achish's interactions with David are recorded primarily in the books of 1 Samuel, providing insight into the complex relationship between the future king of Israel and the Philistine ruler.

Background

Achish was a Philistine king, ruling over the city of Gath, one of the five major Philistine cities. The Philistines were a constant threat to Israel during the time of the judges and the early monarchy. Despite this enmity, David sought refuge with Achish on two notable occasions, highlighting the desperation of his situation and the complexity of his relationship with the Philistines.

David's First Flight to Achish

The first encounter between David and Achish is recorded in 1 Samuel 21:10-15. Fleeing from Saul, David sought asylum in Gath. However, the servants of Achish recognized David and reminded the king of the Israelite songs that celebrated David's military victories over the Philistines. Fearing for his life, David pretended to be insane, leading Achish to dismiss him as a harmless madman. Achish's reaction is recorded in 1 Samuel 21:14-15 : "Then Achish said to his servants, 'Look, you can see that the man is insane. Why have you brought him to me? Do I lack madmen that you have brought this one to act the fool in my presence? Must this man come into my house?'"

David's Second Stay with Achish

David's second and more prolonged stay with Achish is detailed in 1 Samuel 27-29. This time, David came with his men and their families, seeking refuge from Saul's relentless pursuit. Achish, perhaps recalling David's previous harmlessness or seeing an opportunity to exploit a rift within Israel, welcomed David and granted him the town of Ziklag. David lived there for a year and four months, during which he conducted raids against various groups but led Achish to believe he was attacking the Israelites. This deception is noted in 1 Samuel 27:10-12 : "When Achish asked, 'Where did you raid today?' David would reply, 'Against the Negev of Judah,' or 'Against the Negev of Jerahmeel,' or 'Against the Negev of the Kenites.' David did not leave a man or woman alive to be brought to Gath, for he said, 'Otherwise they will report us, saying, "This is what David did."' And this was David’s custom the whole time he lived in Philistine territory. So Achish trusted David, thinking, 'He has made himself an utter stench to his people Israel; therefore he will be my servant forever.'"

Achish's Trust and Its Implications

Achish's trust in David is a remarkable aspect of their relationship. Despite David's reputation as a formidable warrior against the Philistines, Achish believed David had become a loyal vassal. This trust is further demonstrated when Achish invites David to join the Philistine forces in battle against Israel. In 1 Samuel 28:1-2 , Achish says to David, "You must understand that you and your men are to go out to battle with me." David's response, "Then you will see for yourself what your servant can do," is ambiguous, yet Achish interprets it as loyalty, appointing David as his bodyguard for life.

The Philistine Commanders' Rejection

Despite Achish's confidence in David, the other Philistine commanders were not convinced. They feared David might turn against them in battle to regain favor with Saul. As a result, they insisted that Achish send David back to Ziklag, as recorded in 1 Samuel 29:4-5 : "But the commanders of the Philistines were angry with Achish and said, 'Send the man back, that he may return to the place you assigned him. He must not go with us into battle, or he will turn against us during the fighting. How better could he regain his master’s favor than with the heads of our men?'"

Conclusion

Achish's trust in David, despite the inherent risks, underscores the complexity of political and personal relationships in the ancient Near East. David's ability to navigate these relationships, maintaining his integrity while ensuring the safety of his men, is a testament to his leadership and cunning. The narrative of Achish and David provides a profound example of God's providence and the unfolding of His plan for David's eventual kingship over Israel.