Summary
After fearing for his life at Saul’s hands, David decides to escape to the Philistines, bringing his 600 men and two wives. He reaches Gath, where King Achish learns of David’s flight and offers him the town of Ziklag, a place traditionally belonging to Judah. For a year and four months David resides there, raiding the Geshurites, Gezrites, and Amalekites, taking livestock and spoils while leaving no survivors. He reports his victories to Achish and explains that the road was cut through southern Judah and its neighboring peoples. Achish believes David’s account, recognizing that David’s people had become enemies of Israel, and therefore considers him a perpetual servant. Meanwhile Saul’s pursuit of David ceases after hearing he has fled. The narrative emphasizes David’s strategic escape, his cunning use of Philistine protection, and the political dynamics between Israel and the Philistines.