What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 27:6? That day “That day Achish gave him Ziklag…” (1 Samuel 27:6) • The phrase “that day” ties the gift of Ziklag to David’s immediate arrival in Philistine territory (1 Samuel 27:2–3). • David had reasoned, “I will perish someday by the hand of Saul” (1 Samuel 27:1), and this same day became the turning point for his protection under Philistine oversight. • Scripture often marks pivotal moments with the words “that day” (e.g., 1 Samuel 21:10; 2 Samuel 4:8), underscoring the literal immediacy of God-directed events. Achish gave him Ziklag “…Achish gave him Ziklag…” • Achish, king of Gath (1 Samuel 27:2), grants David the border town of Ziklag. • Ziklag originally lay within Judah’s and Simeon’s allotments (Joshua 15:31; 19:5), yet the Philistines had taken control—evidence of Israel’s incomplete conquest. • By giving David his own city, Achish – removes David’s men from Gath, easing Philistine fears (1 Samuel 27:5), – gains a perceived ally against Saul (1 Samuel 29:3), – unwittingly provides David with a strategic base for future raids against Israel’s enemies (1 Samuel 27:8–9). • The transfer shows God’s providence: the enemy king furnishes David with a protected stronghold, preparing the path to kingship (2 Samuel 2:1). and to this day “…and to this day…” • The author marks continuity from the historical moment to his own time of writing, affirming factual reliability (compare 1 Samuel 5:5; 2 Chronicles 5:9). • This phrase indicates that even generations later, readers could verify Ziklag’s status in Judah’s royal domain, reinforcing the enduring trustworthiness of the narrative. it still belongs to the kings of Judah “…it still belongs to the kings of Judah.” • David’s personal possession became part of Judah’s royal estate once he ascended the throne (2 Samuel 2:4; 5:5). • Ziklag served as a refuge for David’s followers (1 Samuel 30:1; 1 Chronicles 12:1) and later as a recognized town within the southern kingdom. • The statement underscores God’s faithfulness: what begins as a survival measure culminates in lasting inheritance, aligning with God’s promise to establish David’s house (2 Samuel 7:16). • Even after the kingdom divided, kings of Judah retained Ziklag, illustrating the permanence of God-given territory despite political shifts. summary The single verse records a decisive gift, secured the very day David sought Philistine shelter. Achish’s grant of Ziklag—initially a tactical convenience—became a perpetual possession of Judah’s monarchy, a tangible sign that God safeguards His anointed, turns enemy actions for His purposes, and secures lasting inheritance for His people. |
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