Topical Bible: Gath: Captured by David

◄ Gath: Captured by David ►

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Gath, one of the five principal cities of the Philistines, holds a significant place in biblical history. Known for its formidable warriors and as the home of Goliath, the giant slain by David, Gath is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament. The city's capture by David marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines.

Historical and Geographical Context

Gath was strategically located in the Shephelah, the lowland region of ancient Israel, serving as a buffer zone between the coastal Philistine cities and the hill country of Judah. Its position made it a critical military and trade center. The city's fortifications and its association with giants, as noted in the biblical narrative, underscore its reputation as a stronghold of Philistine power.

David's Relationship with Gath

Before capturing Gath, David had a complex relationship with the city. Fleeing from King Saul, David sought refuge with Achish, the king of Gath. In 1 Samuel 21:10-15, David feigned madness to escape potential danger from the Philistines, who recognized him as a formidable enemy. Later, in 1 Samuel 27, David returned to Gath and found favor with Achish, who granted him the town of Ziklag. This period of asylum allowed David to build his strength and gather support.

Capture of Gath

The capture of Gath by David is not explicitly detailed in the biblical text, but it is inferred from the broader narrative of David's military campaigns against the Philistines. In 2 Samuel 8:1, it is recorded, "After this, David defeated the Philistines and subdued them, and he took Metheg-ammah from the hand of the Philistines." The term "Metheg-ammah" is often understood to refer to Gath or its surrounding region, indicating David's conquest of the city.

David's victory over Gath and the Philistines was a fulfillment of God's promise to deliver the enemies of Israel into his hands. This conquest not only expanded David's territory but also solidified his reputation as a divinely appointed leader and warrior king. The subjugation of Gath and other Philistine cities marked a turning point in the power dynamics of the region, establishing Israelite dominance.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the capture of Gath by David exemplifies the theme of divine providence and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. David's victories are seen as manifestations of God's favor and the establishment of His chosen king. The narrative underscores the belief in God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to deliver His people from their adversaries.

Legacy of Gath

Gath's legacy in the biblical narrative is multifaceted. It serves as a symbol of Philistine might and the challenges faced by the Israelites. Yet, its eventual capture by David highlights the triumph of God's anointed over seemingly insurmountable foes. The city's history, intertwined with the life of David, continues to be a testament to the enduring struggle and ultimate victory of God's people as recorded in the Scriptures.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 18:1
Now after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them, and took Gath and her towns out of the hand of the Philistines.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

One Fold and one Shepherd
... had sprung up between Achish, king of Gath, and him ... On the other hand, David's exploit
reads us anew the ... Jerusalem was captured by a reunited nation with its ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/one fold and one shepherd.htm

Samuel
... and the ark, which had been captured, was restored to ... however, is so persistent that
David is compelled ... with his country's enemy, the Philistine king of Gath. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/mcfadyen/introduction to the old testament/samuel.htm

At the Front or the Base
... David's city of Ziklag had been captured by the ... all his men who could carry arms
were absent, serving in the army of Achish, the Philistine king of Gath. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/at the front or the.htm

The Israelites
... Jerusalem was not captured till the reign of David ... Meanwhile David and his followers
had left the Israelitish ... their services to Achish of Gath; the Philistine ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter i the israelites.htm

Canaan
... Karnak above the names of the places captured by Shishak ... were used in pursuing David,
and David himself took service as a mercenary under Achish, King of Gath. ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter ii canaan.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... described at length in the duel between David and Goliath ... the Lower Jordan to Ekron
and Gath respectively ... be his youngest brother Othniel, who captured the city ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... David's former battle-fields, and had captured their capital ... whole of the ancient
kingdom of David, Judah included ... to Jonah, son of Amittai, of Gath-Hepher, who ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... on reaching Shuru, Shadadu, the Prince of Sukhi, trusting in his Cossoans, offered
him battle; but he was defeated by Assur-na'zir-pal, who captured the King ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm