Hakilah is a significant geographical location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the narratives concerning King David. It is primarily recognized as a hill in the wilderness of Judah, which served as a strategic site during David's flight from King Saul. The Hill of Hakilah is referenced in the context of David's evasion of Saul's pursuit, highlighting its importance as a place of refuge and tactical advantage.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Samuel 23:19 · The Ziphites went up to Saul at Gibeah and said, "Is not David hiding among us in the strongholds at Horesh, on the hill of Hakilah, south of Jeshimon?" . This verse introduces Hakilah as a location where David sought refuge while being pursued by Saul. The Ziphites, inhabitants of the region, informed Saul of David's whereabouts, demonstrating the hill's significance as a landmark in the wilderness of Judah.

2. 1 Samuel 26:1 · "Then the Ziphites came to Saul at Gibeah, saying, 'Is not David hiding on the hill of Hakilah, opposite Jeshimon?'" . This passage reiterates the role of the Ziphites in revealing David's location to Saul, emphasizing the recurring theme of betrayal and the constant threat David faced during this period.

3. 1 Samuel 26:3 · "Saul camped beside the road on the hill of Hakilah, opposite Jeshimon, but David stayed in the wilderness. When he saw that Saul had followed him there," . Here, the narrative describes Saul's encampment on the hill, underscoring its strategic importance. David's awareness of Saul's movements highlights his vigilance and the precariousness of his situation.

Geographical and Historical Context:

Hakilah is situated in the wilderness of Judah, a region characterized by its rugged terrain and sparse vegetation. This wilderness provided a natural fortress for David and his men, offering concealment and protection from Saul's forces. The hill's proximity to Jeshimon, a desolate area, further underscores its strategic value as a lookout point and a place of refuge.

The repeated mention of Hakilah in the context of David's flight from Saul illustrates the ongoing conflict between the two figures and the challenges David faced as he awaited God's timing for his ascension to the throne. The narratives involving Hakilah reflect themes of divine providence, human loyalty, and the moral complexities of leadership and survival.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the events at Hakilah highlight God's providential care over David. Despite the betrayal by the Ziphites and the relentless pursuit by Saul, David's life was preserved, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His anointed. The episodes at Hakilah also serve as a testament to David's reliance on God for deliverance and guidance, as he consistently sought divine direction in his decisions.

Hakilah, therefore, is more than just a geographical location; it is a symbol of God's protection and the testing of David's faith and character. The narratives associated with this hill offer insights into the complexities of David's journey to kingship and the divine orchestration of events in accordance with God's sovereign plan.Hakilah (3 Occurrences)

1 Samuel 23:19
Then the Ziphites came up to Saul to Gibeah, saying, "Doesn't David hide himself with us in the strongholds in the wood, in the hill of Hachilah, which is on the south of the desert?
(See NIV)

1 Samuel 26:1
The Ziphites came to Saul to Gibeah, saying, "Doesn't David hide himself in the hill of Hachilah, which is before the desert?"
(See NIV)

1 Samuel 26:3
Saul encamped in the hill of Hachilah, which is before the desert, by the way. But David stayed in the wilderness, and he saw that Saul came after him into the wilderness.
(See NIV)

Hakilah (3 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Hakilah (3 Occurrences). 1 Samuel 23:19 Then the
Ziphites came up to Saul to Gibeah, saying, "Doesn't David ...
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Hakeldama (1 Occurrence)

/h/hakeldama.htm - 6k

Hakkatan (1 Occurrence)

/h/hakkatan.htm - 6k

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