Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Askelon; lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, lest the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph.

2 SAMUEL 1:20KJV
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2 Samuel 1:20 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 1:20 mean?

2 Samuel 1:20 is David’s plea not to spread the news of Saul’s death in Philistine cities, so that Israel’s enemies would not celebrate or mock Israel’s loss. David specifically names Gath and Askelon, urging that the defeat not be announced where it would bring joy to the Philistines and shame to Israel.

David is speaking after hearing of King Saul’s death, addressing those around him as he mourns. The verse shows David’s concern for Israel’s honor and his desire to prevent their enemies, especially the Philistines, from rejoicing over the downfall of Israel’s king. By mentioning “the daughters of the Philistines” and “the daughters of the uncircumcised,” David highlights the cultural rivalry and the pain of seeing enemies gloat over Israel’s tragedy.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 1:20

  • גַּת (Gath, transliteration: gat): Gath was one of the main Philistine cities. Naming it makes the warning specific and personal, as Gath had been a place of conflict between Israel and the Philistines.
  • אַשְׁקְלוֹן (Askelon, transliteration: Ashkelon): Another major Philistine city, emphasizing the reach of the warning and the importance of not letting Israel’s enemies celebrate.
  • בְּנוֹת פְּלִשְׁתִּים (daughters of the Philistines, transliteration: b’not P’lishtim): Refers to the women of the enemy nation, often pictured as singing and celebrating victories. This phrase paints a vivid image of public rejoicing by Israel’s rivals.
  • עֲרֵלִים (uncircumcised, transliteration: arelim): A term Israelites used for foreign nations, especially the Philistines, marking them as outsiders to Israel’s covenant with God. Using this word underlines the deep divide and rivalry.

Why 2 Samuel 1:20 matters

  • This verse helps readers understand David’s loyalty to Saul and Israel, even after Saul’s death, and his desire to protect Israel’s reputation.
  • The mention of specific Philistine cities and the “daughters” highlights the real threat of public humiliation and the emotional impact of defeat in the ancient world.
  • 2 Samuel 1:20 sets the tone for David’s entire lament for Saul and Jonathan, showing that his grief is mixed with concern for national honor and the dangers of enemy triumph.