[1] The Philistines gathered for battle at Aphek, while the armies of Israel camped near the spring of Jezreel. [2] The armies of the Philistines were marching forward by hundreds and by thousands, and David and his men were marching in the rear with King Achish. [3] Philistine Generals: What are these Hebrews doing here? King Achish: Isn't this David, who used to be the servant of King Saul of Israel? He has been with me for days, for years; and since he came over to our side and my service, I have never had a problem with him. [4] Philistine Generals (angry): Send David back to the place you have appointed for him. Don't let him go into battle with us-we might find him an enemy instead of an ally. Do you know how he could be reconciled with his former master? By handing him our heads! [5] Isn't this the same David about whom the Israelites sang war songs while they danced and celebrated? Saul has slain his thousands and David, his tens of thousands. [6] Achish (calling to David): As the Eternal One lives, you have been honest with me, and I wish you could march into battle and back at my side. I have found no fault in you before. But the generals-the leaders of my troops-will not have you go with us. [7] Go home now, and go in peace. Don't do anything to upset them further. [8] David: What have I done to deserve this? Has your servant done anything since he entered your service to prevent him going out and fighting against my lord the king's enemies? [9] Achish: As I see it, you are no more to blame than a messenger of God, but the commanders of my troops have said they will not allow you to go into battle with us. [10] Get up early tomorrow morning with your lord's servants, and return to the home I have given you in Ziklag. Rise early tomorrow, and go as soon as it is light. [11] So the next morning, David and his men got up early and traveled south to the land of the Philistines, but the Philistine army went north to Jezreel.
