1 Samuel 21:12

12 And David layeth these words in his heart, and is exceedingly afraid of the face of Achish king of Gath,

1 Samuel 21:12 Meaning and Commentary

1 Samuel 21:12

And David laid up these words in his heart
Pondered upon them, and thought them over in his mind, finding that he was known, and his character also, and considered with himself what might be the consequence of this:

and was sore afraid of Achish the king of Gath;
lest he should be set against him, and be prevailed upon by his servants to take away his life, or deliver him up into the hands of Saul.

1 Samuel 21:12 In-Context

10 And David riseth and fleeth on that day from the face of Saul, and cometh in unto Achish king of Gath;

11 and the servants of Achish say unto him, `Is not this David king of the land? is it not of this one they sing in dances, saying, `Saul smote among his thousands, and David among his myriads?'

12 And David layeth these words in his heart, and is exceedingly afraid of the face of Achish king of Gath,

13 and changeth his behaviour before their eyes, and feigneth himself mad in their hand, and scribbleth on the doors of the gate, and letteth down his spittle unto his beard.

14 And Achish saith unto his servants, `Lo, ye see a man acting as a madman; why do ye bring him in unto me?