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 territory
David, during his time among the Philistines, conducted raids against various groups. This period reflects a strategic and survival-driven phase in David's life, as he sought refuge from King Saul. The territories he attacked were often those of Israel's traditional enemies, such as the Amalekites, who had long been a thorn in Israel's side (Exodus 17:8-16). David's actions can be seen as fulfilling God's earlier commands to Israel to drive out these nations (Deuteronomy 7:1-2).

he did not leave a man or woman alive
This phrase highlights the completeness of David's raids. By leaving no survivors, David ensured that no one could report his activities back to Achish, the Philistine king. This tactic was not uncommon in ancient warfare, where total destruction was sometimes employed to prevent future retaliation or intelligence leaks. It also reflects the harsh realities of survival and warfare in the ancient Near East.

but he took the flocks and herds, the donkeys, camels, and clothing
David's acquisition of livestock and goods was a common practice in ancient raids, serving both as spoils of war and as resources for his men. The mention of specific animals like camels indicates the wealth and variety of resources in these regions. This practice also aligns with the biblical principle of the transfer of wealth from the wicked to the righteous (Proverbs 13:22).

Then he would return to Achish
David's return to Achish, the Philistine king of Gath, underscores his complex relationship with the Philistines. While David was a fugitive from Saul, he found temporary asylum with Israel's enemies. His ability to maintain Achish's trust, despite his raids against Philistine allies, demonstrates his cunning and strategic acumen. This period foreshadows David's future as a wise and resourceful king, capable of navigating complex political landscapes.

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.