1 Samuel 29:7
Wherefore now return, and go in peace, that thou displease not the lords of the Philistines.
Original Language Analysis
וְעַתָּ֥ה
H6258
שׁ֖וּב
Wherefore now return
H7725
שׁ֖וּב
Wherefore now return
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
2 of 10
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
וְלֵ֣ךְ
H1980
וְלֵ֣ךְ
Strong's:
H1980
Word #:
3 of 10
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
בְּשָׁל֑וֹם
in peace
H7965
בְּשָׁל֑וֹם
in peace
Strong's:
H7965
Word #:
4 of 10
safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
5 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
תַעֲשֶׂ֣ה
that thou displease
H6213
תַעֲשֶׂ֣ה
that thou displease
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
6 of 10
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
Historical Context
The dismissal with honor meant David retained his base at Ziklag and his relationship with Achish. This would prove valuable when David needed refuge after the Amalekite raid (chapter 30) and when he later became king and needed non-aggression from Gath.
Questions for Reflection
- When has being excluded from something turned out to be divine protection?
- How do you recognize God's hand in doors that close unexpectedly?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Achish's dismissal, 'return, and go in peace,' releases David from the impossible obligation with honor intact. The phrase 'that thou displease not the lords' (Hebrew: 'al-ta'aseh ra' be'eney seraney pelishtim') acknowledges the political reality that Achish cannot override the coalition's decision. David's departure 'in peace' (Hebrew: 'lech beshalom') preserves his relationship with Gath while freeing him from fighting Israel. What appeared as rejection becomes deliverance, demonstrating God's providential orchestration of political circumstances.