1 Samuel 23:28 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 23:28 mean?

1 Samuel 23:28 describes how Saul stopped chasing David and turned his attention to fighting the Philistines instead, which led people to name that place Selahammahlekoth. The verse marks a turning point where David escapes Saul’s pursuit because Saul is called away by another threat.

In this scene, Saul is actively hunting David, who is fleeing for his life. Just as Saul is about to catch David, news comes that the Philistines are attacking, forcing Saul to abandon the chase. The place is named Selahammahlekoth, which means “the rock of escape,” highlighting how David narrowly avoided capture.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 23:28

• סֶלַע הַמַּחְלְקוֹת (Selahammahlekoth, transliterated selah-hammahlekoth) means “the rock of escape” or “the rock of divisions.” This name marks the spot where David was delivered from Saul, emphasizing the dramatic nature of his escape.
• קָרָא (qara, “called”) shows that the naming of the place was a significant event, commemorating what happened there.
• שָׁב (shav, “returned”) and רָדַף (radaf, “pursuing”) highlight the sudden change in Saul’s actions—he was actively pursuing David but had to turn back.

Why 1 Samuel 23:28 matters

• This verse explains why David was able to escape Saul at this moment, showing that outside events (the Philistine attack) played a key role.
• The naming of the place as Selahammahlekoth serves as a reminder of God’s deliverance and the dramatic way David was saved.
• It connects to the larger story by showing how David’s life was often spared through unexpected turns, setting the stage for his future as king.