1 Samuel 23:19 Meaning and Explanation
“Then came up the Ziphites to Saul to Gibeah, saying, Doth not David hide himself with us in strong holds in the wood, in the hill of Hachilah, which is on the south of Jeshimon?”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →The men of Ziph go to Saul and betray David's hiding places to the king.
What Does 1 Samuel 23:19 Mean?
The Ziphites, fellow Judahites who should have sheltered their kinsman, instead travel to Gibeah to inform on him. They tell Saul exactly where David hides -- in the strongholds of the wood on the hill of Hachilah, south of the desolate Jeshimon.
Betrayal comes from David's own tribe, from those nearest to him. The contrast with Jonathan, an outsider to David's claim who strengthened him, could not be sharper. The world's favor is fickle; kin can turn informer while a friend stays true. Yet David's safety never rested on the Ziphites' loyalty, but on the God who delivered him not into Saul's hand. Human treachery cannot overturn divine keeping.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Samuel 23:19
What does 1 Samuel 23:19 mean?
The men of Ziph go to Saul and betray David's hiding places to the king.