KJV ORIGINAL
And David saved neither man nor woman alive, to bring tidings to Gath, saying, Lest they should tell on us, saying, So did David, and so will be his manner all the while he dwelleth in the country of the Philistines.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
David didn't let any man or woman live to carry news back to Gath, saying, 'Otherwise they might report what we're doing, saying, This is how David acts, and this is what he'll keep doing as long as he lives in Philistine territory.'
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
David killed everyone in his raids so no one could report back to the Philistines about what he was really doing.
📚 Historical Context
David was living among the Philistines while fleeing from King Saul, pretending to be their ally. To maintain this deception, he would raid Israel's enemies but tell King Achish he was attacking Israelite towns. He killed all witnesses to prevent his true activities from being discovered.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.
Share or Save