1 Samuel 21:11

But the servants of Achish said to him, "Is this not David, the king of the land? Did they not sing about him in their dances, saying: 'Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands'?"

Study Bible

But the servants of Achish said to him,
The servants of Achish, the Philistine king of Gath, recognize David. This indicates David's fame had spread even among Israel's enemies. The Philistines were a significant threat to Israel during this period, and Gath was one of their major cities. Achish's servants likely viewed David with suspicion due to his reputation as a formidable warrior.

“Is this not David, the king of the land?
Although David was not yet officially king, he was anointed by Samuel (1 Samuel 16:13) and recognized by many as the future leader of Israel. The servants' reference to him as "king" reflects his growing influence and the perception of his leadership. This foreshadows David's eventual kingship and God's plan for him to lead Israel.

Did they not sing about him in their dances,
This refers to the popular songs sung by the women of Israel after David's victories, particularly after his defeat of Goliath (1 Samuel 18:6-7). Music and dance were common ways to celebrate military victories in ancient cultures, and these songs contributed to David's fame and Saul's jealousy.

saying: ‘Saul has slain his thousands,
Saul, the first king of Israel, was known for his military campaigns against Israel's enemies. This part of the song acknowledges Saul's achievements and his role as a warrior king. However, it also sets up a comparison that highlights David's greater success.

and David his tens of thousands’?”
This hyperbolic expression emphasizes David's superior military prowess and the favor he found among the people. It reflects the shift in public opinion from Saul to David, which fueled Saul's jealousy and fear (1 Samuel 18:8-9). This phrase also underscores God's favor upon David, as he was chosen to lead Israel and fulfill God's covenant promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The anointed future king of Israel, known for his military prowess and his heart for God. At this point, he is fleeing from King Saul, who seeks to kill him.

2. Achish
The king of Gath, a Philistine city. David seeks refuge with him, which is ironic given David's history of defeating the Philistines.

3. Servants of Achish
These individuals recognize David and recall his reputation, which causes concern for Achish.

4. Gath
A Philistine city, significant as the hometown of Goliath, whom David famously defeated.

5. Saul
The current king of Israel, who is envious of David's success and popularity, leading to his pursuit of David.

Teaching Points

Reputation Precedes Us
David's reputation as a warrior and leader was known even among his enemies. Our actions and character can have far-reaching impacts, influencing how others perceive us.

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
Despite being in enemy territory, David's life is preserved. This reminds us that God is in control, even when circumstances seem dire.

Wisdom in Difficult Situations
David's decision to seek refuge in Gath, though risky, shows the need for discernment and strategic thinking in challenging times.

The Power of Praise and Worship
The song about David's victories was a form of praise that acknowledged God's work through him. Our worship can testify to God's greatness and inspire others.

Trust in God's Protection
Like David, we can trust that God will protect and guide us, even when we are surrounded by those who may wish us harm.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's reputation among the Philistines reflect the impact of his earlier victories, and what does this teach us about the importance of our own reputations?

2. In what ways does David's experience in Gath demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives when facing adversity?

3. How can we exercise wisdom and discernment in difficult situations, as David did when he sought refuge with Achish?

4. What role does praise and worship play in our lives, and how can it influence those around us, as seen in the song about David?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper trust in God's protection and guidance, drawing from David's example during his time in Gath?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:7
This verse recounts the song sung by the women of Israel, which the servants of Achish reference. It highlights David's growing reputation and Saul's jealousy.

Psalm 56
Written by David during his time in Gath, this psalm reflects his trust in God amidst fear and danger.

Matthew 10:16
Jesus instructs His disciples to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves," which parallels David's need for wisdom and innocence in dealing with Achish.