And he brought them before the king of Moab: and they dwelt with him all the while that David was in the hold.

1 SAMUEL 22:4KJV
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1 Samuel 22:4 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 22:4 mean?

1 Samuel 22:4 describes how David brought his parents to the king of Moab, and the king allowed them to stay there for as long as David was hiding in his stronghold. This verse shows David seeking safety for his family while he was on the run from King Saul.

David is the main figure here, acting to protect his parents during a dangerous time when Saul was pursuing him. He brings them to the king of Moab, likely because of family connections—David’s great-grandmother Ruth was from Moab. The verse highlights David’s care for his family and the hospitality shown by the Moabite king during David’s period of hiding.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 22:4

  • "brought" (נָחָה, nāchah): This word often means to lead or guide, suggesting David personally ensured his parents’ safety by taking them to Moab.
  • "hold" (מְצוּדָה, metzudah): This refers to a stronghold or fortress, indicating David was staying in a secure, hidden place while evading Saul. The word paints a picture of David’s life on the run and the need for protection.

Why 1 Samuel 22:4 matters

  • This verse clarifies that David’s concern was not only for his own safety but also for his family’s well-being, showing his sense of responsibility.
  • The mention of Moab connects to David’s ancestry through Ruth, which may explain why he trusted the Moabite king with his parents’ care.
  • The verse sets the stage for the following events by showing David’s life in exile and the practical steps he took to protect those he loved.

Where else these words appear

“hold” Hebrew H4686 · used in 22 verses

  • 1 Samuel 22:5 And the prophet Gad said unto David, Abide not in the hold; depart, and get thee into the land of Judah. Then David departed, and came into the forest of Hareth.
  • 1 Chronicles 11:5 And the inhabitants of Jebus said to David, Thou shalt not come hither. Nevertheless David took the castle of Zion, which is the city of David.
  • Psalms 66:11 Thou broughtest us into the net; thou laidst affliction upon our loins.

“brought” Hebrew H5148 · used in 39 verses

  • Genesis 24:27 And he said, Blessed be the LORD God of my master Abraham, who hath not left destitute my master of his mercy and his truth: I being in the way, the LORD led me to the house of my master's brethren.
  • Job 12:23 He increaseth the nations, and destroyeth them: he enlargeth the nations, and straiteneth them again.
  • Psalms 78:14 In the daytime also he led them with a cloud, and all the night with a light of fire.