And David went out to meet them, and answered and said unto them, If ye be come peaceably unto me to help me, mine heart shall be knit unto you: but if ye be come to betray me to mine enemies, seeing there is no wrong in mine hands, the God of our fathers look thereon, and rebuke it.
David went out to meet them and said, 'If you have come in peace to help me, my heart will be united with yours. But if you have come to betray me to my enemies, even though I have done nothing wrong, may the God of our ancestors see this and judge you for it.'
David is cautiously welcoming potential allies, offering friendship if they come in peace but warning that God will judge them if they intend betrayal.
📚 Historical Context
This occurred during David's time as a fugitive from King Saul, when warriors from various tribes were coming to join him at his stronghold. David had to be extremely careful about who he could trust, as Saul was actively hunting him and some who approached might be spies or those seeking to capture him for a reward.
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