And when David enquired of the LORD, he said, Thou shalt not go up; but fetch a compass behind them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees.
When David asked the LORD for guidance, God said, 'Don't attack them directly from the front. Instead, circle around behind them and approach them from the direction of the mulberry trees.'
God is giving David specific military strategy, telling him to use a surprise attack from behind rather than a direct frontal assault.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs during David's reign as king when the Philistines came up to fight against him in the valley of Rephaim. David had just been anointed king over all Israel, and the Philistines saw him as a threat to their control over the region. This was the second of two battles David fought against the Philistines in this valley, and he sought God's guidance for each encounter.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.