Keilah is a town mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, located in the lowlands of Judah. It is primarily noted for its association with David during his fugitive years while fleeing from King Saul. The town is referenced in the context of David's military exploits and his reliance on divine guidance.

In 1 Samuel 23, David learns that the Philistines are attacking Keilah and robbing the threshing floors. Seeking God's direction, David inquires of the LORD, who instructs him to go and save Keilah. Despite initial hesitance from his men, David leads them to victory against the Philistines, thus delivering the town. The Berean Standard Bible records this event: "So David and his men went to Keilah, fought against the Philistines, carried off their livestock, and inflicted heavy losses on them. Thus David rescued the people of Keilah" (1 Samuel 23:5).

However, David's stay in Keilah is short-lived. Upon learning that Saul is plotting against him, David again seeks the LORD's counsel. God reveals that the people of Keilah would betray him to Saul, prompting David to leave the town with his men (1 Samuel 23:12-13). This episode highlights David's dependence on God for guidance and protection during his time as a fugitive.

Keilah is also mentioned in the context of the post-exilic period. In Nehemiah 3:17-18, the town is listed among those whose inhabitants participated in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, indicating its continued existence and significance in the region.

Eshtemoa

Eshtemoa is another town located in the territory of Judah, specifically in the hill country. It is mentioned in several biblical passages, primarily in connection with the Levitical cities and the distribution of land among the tribes of Israel.

In Joshua 15:50, Eshtemoa is listed among the towns in the hill country of Judah. Later, in Joshua 21:14, it is designated as a Levitical city, given to the descendants of Aaron the priest. This allocation underscores the town's religious significance, as it served as a dwelling place for the Levites, who were responsible for various religious duties and services.

Eshtemoa is also noted in the narrative of David's time as a fugitive. In 1 Samuel 30, after David's successful recovery of the captives and spoils from the Amalekites, he sends some of the plunder to the elders of Judah, including those in Eshtemoa. The Berean Standard Bible records this act of generosity: "David also sent gifts to the elders of Judah, to his friends, saying, 'Here is a gift for you from the spoil of the enemies of the LORD'—to those in Bethel, Ramoth Negev, and Jattir; to those in Aroer, Siphmoth, and Eshtemoa" (1 Samuel 30:26-28). This gesture reflects David's strategic alliances and his efforts to maintain goodwill among the people of Judah.

Eshtemoa's mention in these contexts highlights its role as a significant settlement within the tribal allotment of Judah, serving both religious and communal functions in ancient Israel.