Achish, a Philistine king of Gath, is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of David's life. Gath was one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, and Achish is mentioned in several key episodes in the books of 1 Samuel and 1 Kings.

David's Flight to Achish

David first sought refuge with Achish when fleeing from King Saul. In 1 Samuel 21:10-15, David arrives in Gath, seeking asylum. However, the servants of Achish recognize David as the one celebrated in Israelite songs for his military victories, saying, "Is this not David, the king of the land? Did they not sing about him in their dances: ‘Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands’?" (1 Samuel 21:11). Fearing for his life, David feigns madness, scratching on the doors of the gate and letting saliva run down his beard. Achish, convinced of David's insanity, dismisses him, saying, "Do I lack madmen, that you have brought this one to act the fool in my presence?" (1 Samuel 21:15).

David's Second Sojourn with Achish

David's relationship with Achish takes a different turn in 1 Samuel 27. After continued pursuit by Saul, David again seeks refuge with Achish, who this time receives him favorably. David, along with his men and their families, settles in Gath under Achish's protection. Achish grants David the town of Ziklag, where David resides for a year and four months (1 Samuel 27:6-7). During this period, David conducts raids against various groups but deceives Achish about his targets, leading Achish to believe that David has become a loyal servant by attacking his own people, Israel (1 Samuel 27:10-12).

David and the Philistine Campaign

Achish's trust in David is further demonstrated when the Philistines prepare for battle against Israel. Achish intends to have David and his men join the Philistine forces, expressing his confidence in David by saying, "I know that you are as pleasing in my sight as an angel of God" (1 Samuel 29:9). However, the other Philistine commanders distrust David, fearing he might turn against them in battle. Consequently, Achish reluctantly sends David back to Ziklag (1 Samuel 29:6-11).

Achish in the Context of Philistine-Israelite Relations

Achish's interactions with David highlight the complex relationships between the Philistines and Israelites during this period. While the Philistines were often adversaries of Israel, Achish's dealings with David reveal moments of political pragmatism and personal trust. Achish's willingness to harbor David, a fugitive from Saul, and his later desire to include David in his military campaign, underscore the nuanced dynamics of ancient Near Eastern politics.

Achish in 1 Kings

Achish is also mentioned in 1 Kings 2:39-40, where he is referred to as the king of Gath during the time of Solomon. This reference, however, is likely to a different Achish, as it occurs many years after the events involving David. In this passage, Shimei, a former adversary of David, leaves Jerusalem to retrieve his runaway servants from Gath, indicating ongoing interactions between Israel and the Philistine city.

Achish, King of Gath, thus emerges as a figure of both enmity and alliance, reflecting the intricate and often shifting allegiances of the time. His interactions with David provide insight into the broader geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East and the providential unfolding of God's plan for David's rise to kingship.