Bible Commentaries
1 Samuel 22

Verses 1-23

Leaving Gath, David took refuge in the cave of Adullam, where there gathered to him a band of the outcasts of his own people. They are graphically described as those in "distress," in "debt," and "discontented." It is quite possible that the condition of these people was the, result of the oppressions they had suffered under Saul. In any case, from the standpoint of Saul's reign, they were considered dangerous people, and were outcast. What happened to them in their contact with David is revealed in the later history, when these men became the mighty men of the new kingdom. So far as David was concerned, this was a far safer position, and a worthier occupation than that to which he had been reduced in the court of Achish.

In the meanwhile Saul filled the cup of his iniquity by ordering the slaughter of the priests because Ahimelech had helped David. One of their number, Abiathar, escaped from the slaughter, and joined David in his hiding place. It is interesting to remember that he remained with David, and was loyal to him throughout his life and reign.

All these experiences of David, both in fear and in faith, experiences as they were of adversity and trial, were undoubtedly preparing him for the responsibilities that were to fall upon him when, in fulfilment of the divine purpose, he became king of the nation.