And David sat between the two gates: and the watchman went up to the roof over the gate unto the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold a man running alone.
David sat in the area between the two gates of the city. The watchman climbed up to the roof above the gate, near the wall, and looked out into the distance. He saw a man running by himself toward the city.
This verse shows David waiting anxiously for news about the battle, while a watchman spots a lone messenger approaching with what will be devastating news about his son Absalom.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs during Absalom's rebellion against his father King David. David had fled Jerusalem and was waiting at Mahanaim while his forces fought against Absalom's army. Ancient cities had gatehouse complexes with multiple gates and watchtowers where guards kept lookout for approaching messengers or enemies.
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