Bible Chapter Summary
1 Samuel 23 Summary
David Saves Keilah, Sought by Saul
The LORD directs David to relieve the Philistines' siege of Keilah, and David defeats them. Yet when Saul learns David is in the walled city, he plans to trap him. David inquires of the LORD and learns the men of Keilah would betray him, so he flees. Jonathan visits David in the wilderness of Ziph, confirms David will be king, and renews their covenant before Saul pursues him.
Key themes
Key verses
1 Samuel 23:2
“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.”
1 Samuel 23:11-12
“Will the men of Keilah deliver me up into his hand? will Saul come down, as thy servant hath heard? O LORD God of Israel, I beseech thee, tell thy servant. And the LORD said, He will come down.”
1 Samuel 23:16-17
“And Jonathan Saul's son arose, and went to David into the wood, and strengthened his hand in God.”
1 Samuel 23:29
“And David went up from thence, and dwelt in strong holds at En-gedi.”
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