The term "four hundred young men" is notably associated with the narrative of David and his encounters with Saul, as well as his subsequent leadership and military endeavors. This group is mentioned in the context of David's escape from King Saul and his time in the wilderness, as recorded in the books of 1 Samuel and 1 Chronicles.

1 Samuel 22:1-2 :
"David departed from there and escaped to the cave of Adullam. When his brothers and the rest of his father’s household heard about it, they went down to him there. And all those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their leader. About four hundred men were with him."

This passage highlights the initial gathering of men around David, who was fleeing from King Saul's pursuit. These men, described as being in distress, in debt, or discontented, found in David a leader who could provide them with purpose and direction. The number "four hundred" here signifies the beginning of David's rise as a leader of a formidable group, which would later grow in size and strength.

1 Samuel 25:13 :
"Then David said to his men, 'Strap on your swords!' So David and all his men put on their swords, and about four hundred men went up with David, while two hundred stayed with the supplies."

In this instance, the four hundred men are depicted as a mobile and ready force, prepared to take action under David's command. This event occurs during the episode with Nabal, where David's men are prepared to exact retribution for Nabal's insult and refusal to provide provisions. The narrative demonstrates the loyalty and readiness of these men to follow David's leadership.

1 Samuel 30:9-10 :
"So David and his six hundred men went to the Brook of Besor, where some stayed behind because two hundred men were too exhausted to cross the brook. But David and four hundred men continued the pursuit."

Here, the four hundred men are part of a larger group of six hundred, but they are distinguished by their ability to continue the pursuit of the Amalekites who had raided Ziklag. This passage underscores the resilience and determination of the four hundred, who, despite the exhaustion of their comrades, press on to recover what was lost.

1 Chronicles 12:22 :
"Day after day men came to David to help him, until he had a great army, like the army of God."

While this verse does not specifically mention the four hundred, it provides context for the growth of David's forces. The initial group of four hundred young men can be seen as the nucleus of what would become a mighty army, blessed and strengthened by God.

The four hundred young men who initially gathered around David represent a significant phase in his journey from a fugitive to a king. Their loyalty, courage, and willingness to follow David through adversity are emblematic of the qualities that would define David's reign and the establishment of his kingdom. These men, drawn from various backgrounds of distress and discontent, found unity and purpose under David's leadership, reflecting the transformative power of God's anointed leader.