David rescues Keilah from Philistine raiders, but when he inquires of the LORD through the ephod with Abiathar, God reveals Keilah will betray him to Saul; David and six hundred men depart for the wilderness. Jonathan finds David at Horesh, strengthens his hand in God, and they renew their covenant; the Ziphites offer to betray David to Saul. Saul pursues David at the rock of escape in the wilderness of Maon, but must withdraw when Philistines invade; David moves to the strongholds of En-gedi.
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Read 1 Samuel Chapter 23 Summary
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Characters in This Chapter
Samuel
Last judge and prophet who anointed both Saul and David as kings
Saul
First king of Israel, whose disobedience led to his rejection by God
David
Shepherd boy anointed as future king, man after God's own heart
Jonathan
Saul's son who became David's closest friend despite the rivalry
Hannah
Samuel's mother who prayed for a son and dedicated him to God
Judah
Son of Jacob, Ancestor of David and Christ
Places in This Chapter
The Wilderness
View on MapThe wilderness refers to the desert regions of Sinai and Judea. Israel wandered here for 40 years after the Exodus. John the Baptist preached in the wilderness of Judea, and Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness for 40 days. It represents testing, preparation, and encounter with God.
Position in Book
Samuel's MinistryChapters 1-7
Saul's ReignChapters 8-15
David's RiseChapters 16-31
David anointed, defeats Goliath, friendship with Jonathan, flees from Saul, Saul's death in battle.