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And the LORD said unto David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah. <a href="/nkjv/1_samuel/23.htm">New King James Version</a> Therefore David inquired of the LORD, saying, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” And the LORD said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines, and save Keilah.” <a href="/nasb_/1_samuel/23.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> So David inquired of the LORD, saying, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” And the LORD said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.” <a href="/nasb/1_samuel/23.htm">NASB 1995</a> So David inquired of the LORD, saying, &#8220Shall I go and attack these Philistines?&#8221 And the LORD said to David, &#8220Go and attack the Philistines and deliver Keilah.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/1_samuel/23.htm">NASB 1977 </a> So David inquired of the LORD, saying, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” And the LORD said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines, and deliver Keilah.” <a href="/lsb/1_samuel/23.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> So David asked of Yahweh, saying, “Shall I go and strike these Philistines?” And Yahweh said to David, “Go and strike the Philistines and save Keilah.” <a href="/amp/1_samuel/23.htm">Amplified Bible</a> So David inquired of the LORD, saying, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” And the Lord said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.” <a href="/csb/1_samuel/23.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> So David inquired of the LORD: “Should I launch an attack against these Philistines? ” The LORD answered David, “Launch an attack against the Philistines and rescue Keilah.” <a href="/hcsb/1_samuel/23.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> So David inquired of the LORD: &#8220Should I launch an attack against these Philistines?&#8221 The LORD answered David, &#8220Launch an attack against the Philistines and rescue Keilah.&#8221 <a href="/asv/1_samuel/23.htm">American Standard Version</a> Therefore David inquired of Jehovah, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And Jehovah said unto David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah. <a href="/cev/1_samuel/23.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> David asked the LORD, "Should I attack these Philistines?" "Yes," the LORD answered. "Attack them and rescue Keilah." <a href="/erv/1_samuel/23.htm">English Revised Version</a> Therefore David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the LORD said unto David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah. <a href="/gwt/1_samuel/23.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> David asked the LORD, "Should I go and attack these Philistines?" "Go," the LORD told David, "attack the Philistines, and save Keilah." <a href="/gnt/1_samuel/23.htm">Good News Translation</a> So he asked the LORD, "Shall I go and attack the Philistines?" "Yes," the LORD answered. "Attack them and save Keilah." <a href="/isv/1_samuel/23.htm">International Standard Version</a> David inquired of the LORD: "Shall I go and strike down these Philistines?" The LORD told David, "Go strike down the Philistines and deliver Keilah." <a href="/msb/1_samuel/23.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> So David inquired of the LORD, ?Should I go and attack these Philistines?? And the LORD said to David, ?Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.? <a href="/net/1_samuel/23.htm">NET Bible</a> So David asked the LORD, "Should I go and strike down these Philistines?" The LORD said to David, "Go, strike down the Philistines and deliver Keilah." <a href="/nheb/1_samuel/23.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Therefore David inquired of the LORD, saying, "Shall I go and strike these Philistines?" Then the LORD replied, "Go strike the Philistines, and save Keilah." <a href="/wbt/1_samuel/23.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Therefore David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the LORD said to David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah. <a href="/web/1_samuel/23.htm">World English Bible</a> Therefore David inquired of Yahweh, saying, “Shall I go and strike these Philistines?” Yahweh said to David, “Go strike the Philistines, and save Keilah.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_samuel/23.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And David inquires of YHWH, saying, “Do I go? And have I struck among these Philistines?” And YHWH says to David, “Go, and you have struck among the Philistines, and saved Keilah.” <a href="/ylt/1_samuel/23.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And David asketh at Jehovah, saying, 'Do I go? -- and have I smitten among these Philistines?' And Jehovah saith unto David, 'Go, and thou hast smitten among the Philistines, and saved Keilah.' <a href="/slt/1_samuel/23.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And David will ask in Jehovah, saying, Shall I go and strike against these rovers? And Jehovah will say to David, Go and strike against the rovers, and save Keilah.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_samuel/23.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Therefore David consulted the Lord, saying: Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the Lord said to David: Go, and thou shalt smite the Philistines, and shalt save Ceila. <a href="/cpdv/1_samuel/23.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Therefore, David consulted the Lord, saying, “Shall I go and strike down these Philistines?” And the Lord said to David, “Go, and you shall strike down the Philistines, and you shall save Keilah.” <a href="/nabre/1_samuel/23.htm">New American Bible</a> So he consulted the LORD, asking, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” The LORD answered, Go, attack them, and free Keilah. <a href="/nrsvce/1_samuel/23.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> David inquired of the LORD, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” The LORD said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_samuel/23.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And David inquired of the LORD, saying. Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the LORD said to him, Go and smite the Philistines and save Keilah. <a href="/hpbt/1_samuel/23.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And David asked of LORD JEHOVAH and he said: “Shall I go, shall I destroy these Philistines?” And LORD JEHOVAH said to him, “Go, cut off the Philistines and save Qayla”<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/1_samuel/23.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> Therefore David inquired of the LORD, saying: 'Shall I go and smite these Philistines?' And the LORD said unto David: 'Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah.' <a href="/sep/1_samuel/23.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> And David enquired of the Lord, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the Lord said, Go, and thou shalt smite these Philistines, and shalt save Keila. <a href="/parallel/1_samuel/23-2.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H8oQfYUMRZg?start=6733" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_samuel/23.htm">David Delivers Keilah</a> 1Now it was reported to David, “Look, the Philistines are fighting against Keilah and looting the threshing floors.” 2<a href="/hebrew/1732.htm" title="1732: dā·wiḏ (N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps beloved one, a son of Jesse. Rarely; Daviyd; from the same as dowd; loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse.">So David</a> <a href="/hebrew/7592.htm" title="7592: way·yiš·’al (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To ask, inquire. Or shael; a primitive root; to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand.">inquired</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (Prep-b:: N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">of the LORD,</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: lê·mōr (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say."></a> <a href="/hebrew/1980.htm" title="1980: ha·’ê·lêḵ (V-Qal-Imperf-1cs) -- To go, come, walk. Akin to yalak; a primitive root; to walk.">“Should I go</a> <a href="/hebrew/5221.htm" title="5221: wə·hik·kê·ṯî (Conj-w:: V-Hifil-ConjPerf-1cs) -- To smite. A primitive root; to strike.">and attack</a> <a href="/hebrew/428.htm" title="428: hå̄·ʾēl·lɛ·hs (Art:: Pro-cp) -- These. Prolonged from 'el; these or those.">these</a> <a href="/hebrew/6430.htm" title="6430: bap·pə·liš·tîm (Prep-b, Art:: N-proper-mp) -- Inhab. of Philistia. Patrial from Plesheth; a Pelishtite or inhabitant of Pelesheth.">Philistines?”</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">And the LORD</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: way·yō·mer (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">said</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/1732.htm" title="1732: dā·wiḏ (N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps beloved one, a son of Jesse. Rarely; Daviyd; from the same as dowd; loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse.">David,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1980.htm" title="1980: lêḵ (V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- To go, come, walk. Akin to yalak; a primitive root; to walk.">“Go</a> <a href="/hebrew/5221.htm" title="5221: wə·hik·kî·ṯā (Conj-w:: V-Hifil-ConjPerf-2ms) -- To smite. A primitive root; to strike.">and attack</a> <a href="/hebrew/6430.htm" title="6430: ḇap·pə·liš·tîm (Prep-b, Art:: N-proper-mp) -- Inhab. of Philistia. Patrial from Plesheth; a Pelishtite or inhabitant of Pelesheth.">the Philistines</a> <a href="/hebrew/3467.htm" title="3467: wə·hō·wō·ša‘·tā (Conj-w:: V-Hifil-ConjPerf-2ms) -- To deliver. A primitive root; properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e. to be safe; causatively, to free or succor.">and save</a> <a href="/hebrew/853.htm" title="853: ’eṯ- (DirObjM) -- Apparent contracted from 'owth in the demonstrative sense of entity; properly, self."></a> <a href="/hebrew/7084.htm" title="7084: qə·‘î·lāh (N-proper-fs) -- A city in Judah. Perhaps from qala' in the sense of inclosing; citadel; Keilah, a place in Palestine.">Keilah.”</a> 3But David’s men said to him, “Look, we are afraid here in Judah; how much more if we go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/judges/20-18.htm">Judges 20:18</a> The Israelites set out, went up to Bethel, and inquired of God, “Who of us shall go up first to fight against the Benjamites?” “Judah will be first,” the LORD replied. <a href="/2_samuel/5-19.htm">2 Samuel 5:19</a> So David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” “Go up,” replied the LORD, “for I will surely deliver the Philistines into your hand.” <a href="/2_samuel/5-23.htm">2 Samuel 5:23</a> So David inquired of the LORD, who answered, “Do not march straight up, but circle around behind them and attack them in front of the balsam trees. <a href="/1_samuel/30-8.htm">1 Samuel 30:8</a> and David inquired of the LORD: “Should I pursue these raiders? Will I overtake them?” “Pursue them,” the LORD replied, “for you will surely overtake them and rescue the captives.” <a href="/1_kings/22-5.htm">1 Kings 22:5-6</a> But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, “Please inquire first for the word of the LORD.” / So the king of Israel assembled the prophets, about four hundred men, and asked them, “Should I go to war against Ramoth-gilead, or should I refrain?” “Go up,” they replied, “and the Lord will deliver it into the hand of the king.” <a href="/2_kings/3-11.htm">2 Kings 3:11</a> But Jehoshaphat asked, “Is there no prophet of the LORD here? Let us inquire of the LORD through him.” And one of the servants of the king of Israel answered, “Elisha son of Shaphat is here. He used to pour water on the hands of Elijah.” <a href="/2_kings/3-15.htm">2 Kings 3:15-19</a> But now, bring me a harpist.” And while the harpist played, the hand of the LORD came upon Elisha / and he said, “This is what the LORD says: ‘Dig this valley full of ditches.’ / For the LORD says, ‘You will not see wind or rain, but the valley will be filled with water, and you will drink—you and your cattle and your animals.’ ... <a href="/1_chronicles/14-10.htm">1 Chronicles 14:10</a> So David inquired of God, “Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” “Go,” replied the LORD, “for I will deliver them into your hand.” <a href="/1_chronicles/14-14.htm">1 Chronicles 14:14</a> So David again inquired of God, who answered him, “Do not march up after them, but circle around them and attack them in front of the balsam trees. <a href="/psalms/32-8.htm">Psalm 32:8</a> I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you. <a href="/psalms/37-23.htm">Psalm 37:23</a> The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD who takes delight in his journey. <a href="/psalms/73-24.htm">Psalm 73:24</a> You guide me with Your counsel, and later receive me in glory. <a href="/proverbs/3-5.htm">Proverbs 3:5-6</a> Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; / in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. <a href="/isaiah/30-21.htm">Isaiah 30:21</a> And whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear this command behind you: “This is the way. Walk in it.” <a href="/jeremiah/42-3.htm">Jeremiah 42:3</a> Pray that the LORD your God will tell us the way we should walk and the thing we should do.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Therefore David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the LORD said to David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah.<a href="/1_samuel/23-4.htm">1 Samuel 23:4,6,9-12</a> Then David inquired of the LORD yet again. And the LORD answered him and said, Arise, go down to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines into thine hand… <a href="/1_samuel/30-8.htm">1 Samuel 30:8</a> And David inquired at the LORD, saying, Shall I pursue after this troop? shall I overtake them? And he answered him, Pursue: for thou shalt surely overtake them, and without fail recover all.<a href="/numbers/27-21.htm">Numbers 27:21</a> And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall ask counsel for him after the judgment of Urim before the LORD: at his word shall they go out, and at his word they shall come in, both he, and all the children of Israel with him, even all the congregation.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_samuel/22-18.htm">Attack</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-1.htm">David</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-47.htm">Deliver</a> <a href="/1_samuel/22-17.htm">Hands</a> <a href="/1_samuel/22-13.htm">Inquired</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-1.htm">Keilah</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-1.htm">Kei'lah</a> <a href="/1_samuel/21-7.htm">Kept</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-1.htm">Philistines</a> <a href="/1_samuel/19-22.htm">Questioning</a> <a href="/1_samuel/21-9.htm">Save</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-39.htm">Saved</a> <a href="/1_samuel/20-33.htm">Smite</a> <a href="/1_samuel/22-19.htm">Smitten</a> <a href="/1_samuel/20-33.htm">Strike</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_samuel/23-8.htm">Attack</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-4.htm">David</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-4.htm">Deliver</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-4.htm">Hands</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-4.htm">Inquired</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-3.htm">Keilah</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-3.htm">Kei'lah</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-13.htm">Kept</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-3.htm">Philistines</a> <a href="/1_samuel/30-8.htm">Questioning</a> <a href="/1_samuel/30-17.htm">Save</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-5.htm">Saved</a> <a href="/1_samuel/26-8.htm">Smite</a> <a href="/1_samuel/29-5.htm">Smitten</a> <a href="/1_samuel/26-8.htm">Strike</a><div class="vheading2">1 Samuel 23</div>1. <a href="/1_samuel/23-1.htm">David, enquiring of the Lord by Abiathar, rescues Keilah</a> 7. <a href="/1_samuel/23-7.htm">God showing him the coming of Saul, and the treachery of the Keilites, </a> 13. <a href="/1_samuel/23-13.htm">he escapes from Keilah</a> 14. <a href="/1_samuel/23-14.htm">In Ziph Jonathan comes and comforts him</a> 19. <a href="/1_samuel/23-19.htm">The Ziphites discover him to Saul</a> 25. <a href="/1_samuel/23-25.htm">At Maon he is rescued from Saul by the invasion of the Philistines</a> 29. <a href="/1_samuel/23-29.htm">He dwells at En Gedi</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_samuel/23.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_samuel/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_samuel/23.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>So David inquired of the LORD David's practice of seeking God's guidance is a recurring theme in his life, demonstrating his reliance on divine wisdom rather than his own understanding. This inquiry reflects the biblical principle found in <a href="/proverbs/3-5.htm">Proverbs 3:5-6</a>, which encourages trust in the Lord for direction. David's approach contrasts with Saul, who often acted impulsively without seeking God's counsel. The use of the ephod, a priestly garment, and the presence of Abiathar the priest (<a href="/1_samuel/23-6.htm">1 Samuel 23:6</a>) suggest that David sought God's will through the Urim and Thummim, tools used for divination in ancient Israel.“Should I go and attack these Philistines?” The Philistines were a constant threat to Israel during this period, often raiding and oppressing the Israelites. David's question indicates his concern for the people of Keilah, a town in Judah, and his willingness to act as a protector. This reflects his emerging role as a leader and foreshadows his future kingship. The Philistines' presence in the region highlights the ongoing conflict between Israel and its neighbors, a theme prevalent throughout the books of Samuel.And the LORD said to David, The direct communication from God to David underscores the special relationship between them. This divine guidance is a hallmark of David's leadership and is indicative of God's favor upon him. It also serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His active involvement in the affairs of His people. This interaction is reminiscent of God's guidance to other leaders, such as Moses and Joshua, reinforcing the continuity of God's covenantal relationship with Israel.“Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.” God's command to David to save Keilah highlights His concern for justice and protection of His people. This directive not only affirms David's role as a deliverer but also prefigures Christ, who is seen as the ultimate Savior and protector of His people. The rescue of Keilah can be seen as a type of Christ's redemptive work, where He delivers humanity from the oppression of sin. The historical context of Keilah, a fortified city in Judah, emphasizes the strategic importance of this mission in securing the region against Philistine aggression.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a> The anointed future king of Israel, known for his deep relationship with God and his leadership qualities. At this point, he is not yet king and is on the run from King Saul. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_lord.htm">The LORD</a> The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who guides and directs David through his inquiries. 3. <a href="/topical/p/philistines.htm">Philistines</a> A recurring enemy of Israel, known for their military strength and opposition to the Israelites. 4. <a href="/topical/k/keilah.htm">Keilah</a> A town in Judah that was under threat from the Philistines, prompting David to seek God's guidance on whether to intervene. 5. <a href="/topical/i/inquiry_of_the_lord.htm">Inquiry of the LORD</a> David's practice of seeking God's will before making decisions, demonstrating his dependence on divine guidance.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/s/seeking_divine_guidance.htm">Seeking Divine Guidance</a> David's inquiry of the LORD highlights the importance of seeking God's direction in our decisions. As believers, we should prioritize prayer and scripture to discern God's will. <a href="/topical/c/courage_to_act.htm">Courage to Act</a> Once David received God's command, he acted with courage. We are called to act on God's guidance with faith and boldness, trusting in His plan. <a href="/topical/d/dependence_on_god.htm">Dependence on God</a> David's reliance on God rather than his own strength or wisdom is a model for us. We should cultivate a habit of turning to God first in every situation. <a href="/topical/g/god's_faithfulness.htm">God's Faithfulness</a> God's response to David assures us of His faithfulness to guide and protect those who seek Him. We can trust that God will lead us when we earnestly seek His will. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_leadership.htm">Spiritual Leadership</a> David's leadership is marked by his spiritual sensitivity and obedience. As leaders in various capacities, we should emulate his example by prioritizing spiritual discernment.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_samuel_23.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 23</a> <a href="/q/what's_the_bible's_view_on_fighting.htm">What is the Bible's stance on fighting?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_a_man_after_god's_heart.htm">What defines a man after God's own heart?</a> <a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_1_chr_17_and_2_sam_7.htm">How do we reconcile the differences between 1 Chronicles 17 and 2 Samuel 7 regarding the details of God's covenant with David?</a> <a href="/q/what_do_saul_and_david's_lives_teach.htm">What lessons do Saul and David's lives teach us?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_samuel/23.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(2) David enquired of the Lord.--The enquiry was not made of the priest wearing the ephod, by means of the Urim and Thummim, for, according to <a href="/1_samuel/23-6.htm" title="And it came to pass, when Abiathar the son of Ahimelech fled to David to Keilah, that he came down with an ephod in his hand.">1Samuel 23:6</a>, Abiathar, the high priest who succeeded the murdered Ahimelech, only joined David at Keilah, the citizens of which place were then asking for his aid against their foes. But Gad the prophet was with David, and the enquiry was made, no doubt, through him. We know that such enquiries were made through prophets, for we possess a detailed account of such an enquiry being made by Jehoshaphat of the prophet Micaiah (<a href="/1_kings/22-5.htm" title="And Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, Inquire, I pray you, at the word of the LORD to day.">1Kings 22:5</a>; <a href="/context/1_kings/22-7.htm" title="And Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the LORD besides, that we might inquire of him?">1Kings 22:7-8</a>), in which passage the same formula is used as in this case. The Talmud too, when discussing the enquiries made through the Urim and Thummim, whilst dwelling on the greater weight of the decision pronounced by the sacred stones, assumes that questions were also asked through the prophets. "The decree pronounced by a prophet is revocable, but the decision of the Urim and Thummim is irrevocable."--Treatise Yoma, fol. 73 Colossians 1.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_samuel/23.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 2-5. - David enquired of Jehovah. This seems to show that Abiathar was already with David, as the prophet Gad had no ephod, and at this time, and for a considerable period subsequently, the usual way of consulting God was by the Urim and Thummim (see ver. 6). Though the answer was a command to go, yet David's men hesitated; not that they had any doubt of the immediate result, but, regarding Saul as their most dangerous enemy, they were unwilling to embroil themselves also with the Philistines. They argue, We be afraid here in Judah: why then should we close the Philistine territory against us by attacking their armies! Hebrew, "ranks," men disciplined and drawn up in array (see <a href="/1_samuel/17-22.htm">1 Samuel 17:22</a>). In order to remove these prudential doubts, David again consults God, and being a second time encouraged to undertake the rescue of Keilah, proceeds thither with his men. This attack, being unexpected, was entirely successful. The Philistines were driven back with great slaughter, and David brought away their cattle. The word signifies "small cattle," such as sheep and goats. Besides robbing the threshing floors, the Philistines apparently had been driving off the flocks from the neighbouring pastures. Both Hareth, where David and his men had lain hid in the thickets (<a href="/1_samuel/22-5.htm">1 Samuel 22:5</a>), and Keilah were in the tribe of Judah, in the southern portion of the Shephelah (<a href="/joshua/15-44.htm">Joshua 15:44</a>). <a href="/commentaries/1_samuel/23-2.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>So David דָּוִ֤ד (dā·wiḏ) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1732.htm">Strong's 1732: </a> David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse inquired וַיִּשְׁאַ֨ל (way·yiš·’al) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7592.htm">Strong's 7592: </a> To inquire, to request, to demand of the LORD, בַּֽיהוָה֙ (Yah·weh) Preposition-b | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel “Should I go הַאֵלֵ֣ךְ (ha·’ê·lêḵ) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1980.htm">Strong's 1980: </a> To go, come, walk and attack וְהִכֵּ֔יתִי (wə·hik·kê·ṯî) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Conjunctive perfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5221.htm">Strong's 5221: </a> To strike these הָאֵ֑לֶּה (hā·’êl·leh) Article | Pronoun - common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_428.htm">Strong's 428: </a> These, those Philistines?” בַּפְּלִשְׁתִּ֖ים (bap·pə·liš·tîm) Preposition-b, Article | Noun - proper - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6430.htm">Strong's 6430: </a> Philistines -- inhabitants of Philistia And the LORD יְהוָ֜ה (Yah·weh) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel said וַיֹּ֨אמֶר (way·yō·mer) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say to אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to David, דָּוִ֗ד (dā·wiḏ) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1732.htm">Strong's 1732: </a> David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse “Go לֵ֚ךְ (lêḵ) Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1980.htm">Strong's 1980: </a> To go, come, walk and attack וְהִכִּ֣יתָ (wə·hik·kî·ṯā) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Conjunctive perfect - second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5221.htm">Strong's 5221: </a> To strike the Philistines בַפְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים (ḇap·pə·liš·tîm) Preposition-b, Article | Noun - proper - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6430.htm">Strong's 6430: </a> Philistines -- inhabitants of Philistia and deliver וְהוֹשַׁעְתָּ֖ (wə·hō·wō·ša‘·tā) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Conjunctive perfect - second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3467.htm">Strong's 3467: </a> To be open, wide, free, to be safe, to free, succor Keilah.” קְעִילָֽה׃ (qə·‘î·lāh) Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7084.htm">Strong's 7084: </a> Keilah -- a city in Judah <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_samuel/23-2.htm">1 Samuel 23:2 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_samuel/23-2.htm">1 Samuel 23:2 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_samuel/23-2.htm">1 Samuel 23:2 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_samuel/23-2.htm">1 Samuel 23:2 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_samuel/23-2.htm">1 Samuel 23:2 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_samuel/23-2.htm">1 Samuel 23:2 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_samuel/23-2.htm">1 Samuel 23:2 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_samuel/23-2.htm">1 Samuel 23:2 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_samuel/23-2.htm">1 Samuel 23:2 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_samuel/23-2.htm">1 Samuel 23:2 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-2.htm">OT History: 1 Samuel 23:2 Therefore David inquired of Yahweh saying Shall (1Sa iSam 1 Sam i sa) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_samuel/23-1.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Samuel 23:1"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Samuel 23:1" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_samuel/23-3.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Samuel 23:3"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Samuel 23:3" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>