Selahammahlekoth is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of David's flight from King Saul. The name "Selahammahlekoth" is derived from Hebrew, and it is often translated as "the rock of escape" or "the rock of divisions." This site holds significance in the narrative of David's life as it marks a moment of divine intervention and deliverance.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to Selahammahlekoth is found in 1 Samuel 23:28. The passage describes a critical moment when David, who was being pursued by Saul, narrowly escapes capture. The Berean Standard Bible renders the verse as follows:

"So Saul broke off his pursuit of David and went to meet the Philistines. That is why that place is called the Rock of Escape."

Context and Significance:

The context of this event is crucial to understanding its significance. David, anointed by the prophet Samuel to be the future king of Israel, was on the run from Saul, the reigning king who saw David as a threat to his throne. Saul's relentless pursuit of David is a recurring theme in the books of Samuel, highlighting the tension between the current king and God's chosen successor.

In 1 Samuel 23, David is informed that the Philistines are attacking the town of Keilah. After seeking God's guidance, David saves the town, but soon learns that Saul is aware of his location. David inquires of the Lord again and is told that the people of Keilah would betray him to Saul. Consequently, David and his men, numbering about six hundred, leave Keilah and continue to evade Saul.

The narrative reaches a climax when Saul nearly captures David in the wilderness of Maon. As Saul and his forces close in on David, a messenger arrives to inform Saul that the Philistines are raiding the land. This urgent news forces Saul to abandon his pursuit of David and address the Philistine threat. It is at this juncture that the location is named Selahammahlekoth, commemorating the divine intervention that allowed David to escape.

Theological Implications:

Selahammahlekoth serves as a testament to God's providence and protection over David. Throughout his life, David faced numerous trials and adversities, yet he consistently experienced God's deliverance. This particular event underscores the belief that God intervenes in the lives of His chosen servants, often in unexpected ways, to fulfill His purposes.

The naming of the site as "the rock of escape" also carries symbolic weight. In biblical literature, rocks often represent stability, refuge, and divine protection. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of God as a refuge and fortress for those who trust in Him, as seen in various Psalms attributed to David himself.

Historical and Geographical Considerations:

The exact location of Selahammahlekoth is not definitively known, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the biblical text. However, it is generally associated with the wilderness regions of Judah, where David frequently sought refuge. The rugged terrain of this area provided natural fortifications and hiding places, which were crucial for David and his men during their time as fugitives.

In summary, Selahammahlekoth is a significant site in the biblical narrative, symbolizing God's deliverance and the ongoing struggle between David and Saul. It highlights the themes of divine intervention, protection, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His anointed.Selahammahlekoth

(the cliff of escapes or of divisions), a rock or cliff in the wilderness of Maon, southeast of Hebron, the scene of one of those remarkable escapes which are so frequent in the history of Saul's pursuit of David. (1 Samuel 23:28)

Cliff of divisions the name of the great gorge which lies between Hachilah and Maon, south-east of Hebron. This gorge is now called the Wady Malaky. This was the scene of the interview between David and Saul mentioned in 1 Samuel 26:13. Each stood on an opposing cliff, with this deep chasm between. SELA-HAMMAHLEKOTH

se-la-ha-ma'-le-koth, -koth (cela`ha-machleqoth; petra he meristheisa): "The rock of divisions (or, escape)" (1 Samuel 23:28 margin). "Saul.... pursued after David in the wilderness of Maon. And Saul went on this side of the mountain, and David and his men on that side of the mountain: and David made haste to get away for fear of Saul" (1 Samuel 23:25, 26). The name seems to survive in Wady Malaki, "the great gorge which breaks down between Carmel and Maon eastward, with vertical cliffs" (PEF, III, 314, Sh. XXI).

Selahammahlekoth (1 Occurrence)
... III, 314, Sh. XXI). Multi-Version Concordance Selahammahlekoth (1 Occurrence).
1 Samuel 23:28 Wherefore Saul returned from pursuing ...
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Sela-hammahlekoth (1 Occurrence)
Sela-hammahlekoth. Selahammahlekoth, Sela-hammahlekoth. Sela-hammah-lekoth . ...
(See JPS ASV DBY). Selahammahlekoth, Sela-hammahlekoth. Sela-hammah-lekoth > ...
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Selah (76 Occurrences)

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