June 25, 2025 • 22 mins
# 179 - David Befriends The Philistines - In this episode of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein, David flees Israel and strikes an uneasy alliance with the Philistines—finding refuge in enemy territory while secretly defending his people. As David walks a dangerous line between survival and deception, we’re invited to wrestle with what faith looks like when the only safe path forward feels morally gray.
Episode 179 of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein is inspired by the Book of Joshua.
Sign up for The Chosen People devotionals at https://www.thechosenpeople.com/sign-up
For more information about Yael Eckstein and IFCJ visit https://www.ifcj.org/
Today's opening prayer is inspired by Proverbs 18:10, “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe”
Listen to some of the greatest Bible stories ever told and make prayer a priority in your life by downloading the Pray.com app.
Show Notes:
(02:09) Intro with Yael Eckstein
(02:59) David Befriends The Philistines
(20:51) Reflection with Yael Eckstein
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Previously on the chosen people.
Speaker 2 (00:03):
Abner Ready three thousand men. I will take no more chances.
We march at Once.
Speaker 3 (00:15):
Saul swore to me that he would not pursue me.
Clearly he's broken his word. I will go and remind
him of his disgrace.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
David crouched at the entrance of Saul's tent. There lay
the king. Saul's breathing was deep and steady. By his
head stood his spear planted firmly in the earth, its
steel tip gleaming in the dim light. David knelt, curling
his fingers around the shaft of the spear. Slowly, steadily,
(00:48):
he pulled it from the ground, his grip firm but measured, My.
Speaker 3 (00:52):
King, go ahead, see where your spear is. You'll not
find it beside your bed, and rather next me, along
with your jar of water. It his me, So it's
always been me. What have I done to you? To Lauren?
Such hatred? Hear me, Oh King, As I leave with
(01:14):
you one last.
Speaker 4 (01:15):
Time before all your men, let it be known that
this is twice now that I've had the opportunity to
slay you, and twice now I have shown you mercy.
Speaker 3 (01:27):
Even though you seek my life. I have not raised
a hand against you.
Speaker 2 (01:32):
I have sinned against you. David, David, he was wrong.
Speaker 1 (01:45):
David turned, looking over the hills, past the land of Judah,
past Israel itself.
Speaker 5 (01:52):
No more running, no.
Speaker 3 (01:54):
More hiding in the wilderness, waiting for a man king
to change his mind.
Speaker 1 (01:58):
Silently, with a steady march, the giant Slayer led his
men into the realm of Philistines.
Speaker 6 (02:12):
Shello, my friends, from here in the holy Land of Israel.
I'm ya l Exstein with the International Fellowship of Christians
and Jews, and welcome to the Chosen People. Each day
we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible, stories
filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the meaning
of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this truth
(02:34):
that we are all chosen for something great.
Speaker 3 (02:38):
So take a moment.
Speaker 6 (02:39):
Today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling extra grateful
for these stories, we would love it if you left
us a review. I read every single one of them,
and if you're interested in hearing more about the prophetic,
life saving work of the Fellowship, you can visit IFCJ
dot Org. Let's begin.
Speaker 1 (03:02):
The sun glared down on the wasteland outside Felictia, a
molten eye scorching the backs of David and his men
as they trudged westward. The desert had no mercy, and
neither did soar. There was no rest, no moment of
respite from the ever looming threat of the mad king's spear.
(03:25):
David clenched his jaw and pressed on. This was the
only way. Behind him, six hundred warriors marched, their faces
hardened by exile, their wives and children trailing behind in
weary silence. The dust clung to their clothes, sweat tracing
(03:46):
lines through the filth on their skin. Beside David, Abshi
kept pace, his fingers tight around the shaft of his spear.
Speaker 5 (03:56):
I know you're intent on leaving Israel, but are you
certain that running into the arms of the enemy as
the wisest path. The Philistines haven't forgotten the men who
butchered their brothers.
Speaker 1 (04:06):
David did not slow.
Speaker 3 (04:09):
While Saul sits on his throne. We have no home
within Israel's borders. Better to face known enemies right in
your face and sitting vulnerable with hidden ones all around.
Speaker 1 (04:20):
His words were cold, but Joshabine could hear the exhaustion
in them. David was weary of running. They all were ahead.
The desert sands gave way to jagged rock. The road
twisted into a ravine, the cliffs pressing close on either side.
(04:40):
David tensed, the feeling prickled at the back of his neck,
a hunter's instinct. They were being watched.
Speaker 3 (04:48):
I smell an ambush.
Speaker 7 (04:50):
Be ready.
Speaker 1 (04:51):
Joshabin tightened his grip and signaled to the others to
poise themselves. They pressed forward deeper into the canyon, the
looming walls swallowing the sky. The city of Gath lay
beyond the stronghold of the Philistines, a place David had
once escaped by feigning madness. It was a coarse and
(05:13):
ugly city, a monument to its people hunger for size
and strength over beauty. Its towers jutted into the sky
like broken teeth, its walls built thick and high with
rough hewn stone. They were nearly through when David heard it,
the shift of rock above them.
Speaker 3 (05:35):
Grace for attack.
Speaker 1 (05:36):
Steel flashed in the sun as the Philistines swarmed from
the cliffs. David's men moved in an instant, a shield
wall forming around the women and children. Swords scraped from scabbards.
The Philistines poured down like wools, scenting blood. But before
the first blokeuld Land, David ran forward. He threw his
(05:59):
hands into the air and dropped to his knees. The
suddenness of the gesture stopped the Philistine's mid stride. Spears
hovered inches from his throat. David lifted his voice, letting
it ring through the canyon.
Speaker 3 (06:14):
Wait, listen to me.
Speaker 5 (06:17):
Do you know who I am?
Speaker 1 (06:19):
The Philistines did not lower their weapons.
Speaker 3 (06:22):
I'm David, son of Jesse. You may know me as
the Giant Slayer.
Speaker 1 (06:28):
The Philistines writhed. At that, the spears inched even closer
to David's throat, Jasherbeemon. The others flinched, but David jerked
his head to stop them.
Speaker 3 (06:40):
I don't come as an enemy, but as a refugee.
My men, their wives and children seek the mercy of
your king. Take me to him. Mind my hands if.
Speaker 1 (06:52):
You must silence. The Philistines shifted uncertain behind him. David
caught Abbessh's eye.
Speaker 3 (07:01):
Keep them safe, You're in charge.
Speaker 1 (07:04):
While I said on this, Abishi hesitated his expression like flint,
then gave a short nod. The Philistines moved swiftly, rope
spit into David's wrists as they bound him and hauled
him to his feet. His men watched intense silence as
he was led away, disappearing behind the cliffs. Then, with
(07:28):
no choice left, they gathered their families and retreated into
the shadow of the mountains, and they waited. David had
been to Gath once before, and it had nearly cost
him his life. The first time, he had played the fool,
(07:48):
scratching at doors, letting his spit dribble down his beard
like a madman. It had been the only way to escape,
with his head still on his shoulders. Now he entered
as a warrior, bound and guarded, but a warrior. Nonetheless,
the city had not changed. It was still jagged and crude,
(08:10):
built for strength rather than beauty. The streets were uneven,
the alleys twisted, the walls rough hewn and looming. Gath
was a city of war, and its people bore the
scars of it. The palace was no different. Furs of
beasts draped over the stone walls, their glassy eyes reflecting
(08:33):
the firelight. Smoke curled from the braziers in all four corners.
The air thick with the scent of charred meat and
spilt wine. The heat of the hall was suffocating, but
David kept his breath steady as he was dragged before
the throne. King Akish was no mere figurehead like saw
(08:56):
Haikish was a warlord, a man carved from blood in battle.
He was taller than most, his arms thick as tree trunks,
his face hardened by years of conquest. His beard was
braided with gold bands, and his eyes black. As an
abyss settled on David with amused curiosity. David fell to
(09:19):
one knee, bowing his head low. He knew how to
play this game.
Speaker 3 (09:24):
He Akish live forever. May the God of my forefathers
bless you for your kindness in releasing me. When last
we met, I was not in my right mind.
Speaker 1 (09:35):
Akish rose from his throne with a slow, deliberate motion.
The ground trembled beneath his feet as he descended the steps,
standing over David like a lion deciding whether to toy
with its prey or tear it apart.
Speaker 8 (09:50):
You were a raving lunatic when I last saw you,
giant slayer, and now you returned to me mind and
act with an army at my doorstep.
Speaker 7 (10:03):
Tell me which David stands before me now, the commander
or the madman?
Speaker 3 (10:11):
Neither, My lord, I come to you as a servant
and a refugee.
Speaker 9 (10:16):
A servant, you pah, you who once slew my champion,
you who bathed in the blood of my countrymen.
Speaker 3 (10:28):
My good lord Akish, I do.
Speaker 9 (10:30):
Not bring your formalities into my harse. David gotafak Shian slayer.
We are no Hebrews with your precious ceremonies and records.
Speaker 7 (10:40):
We are dark muth, the earthborn of Deacon.
Speaker 8 (10:46):
Speak plainly, no pleasantries or flattery.
Speaker 1 (10:51):
David paused and lifted his head. He stood, stretching his
neck to meet Akish eye to eye. The Steins were
a people of war. If David wanted respect, he couldn't
speak in the tongue of lords. He needed to be
hard as stone and cold as ice.
Speaker 3 (11:11):
I've slain giants for Israel. In return, they made me
an exile. I'm hunted like a dog by Saul's men.
We are warriors without a country. We are swords with
no flesh to cut into. Allow us to settle here,
and our swords are yours.
Speaker 7 (11:32):
I already have men to guard my borders. Why should
I take an enemy of my people.
Speaker 3 (11:38):
I've fought against your men. I know their strengths and
I know their weaknesses. You have numbers but no skill.
Your troops are impatient, bloodthirsty, and stupid. Let my men
dwell on your land, and I will show you why
I'm feared. From Gath to Agog.
Speaker 1 (11:59):
Akish studied him, stroking his thick beard.
Speaker 8 (12:03):
Shall I really spare the man who has butchered my
warriors and let him live in my kingdom?
Speaker 9 (12:10):
What kind of king would I be to allow such
a thing.
Speaker 3 (12:14):
The kind of king who could claim he tamed the
giant slayer.
Speaker 1 (12:18):
The silence was heavy. David did not break it. He
knew what came next. Akish leaned in, would.
Speaker 7 (12:27):
You fight your own people under my command?
Speaker 3 (12:32):
Yes?
Speaker 1 (12:33):
The word left David's lips without hesitation, smooth as a
dagger slipping between ribs. It was a lie, but it
was all a part of a larger gain. David had
a plan, one that required precision. Akish searched his face,
looking for cracks in his conviction.
Speaker 7 (12:56):
Saul has made you a hunted dog, and now.
Speaker 5 (13:01):
You bare your things at him.
Speaker 1 (13:04):
David only nodded slowly. Akish smirked. He gestured to his guards.
Speaker 7 (13:11):
Cut him loose.
Speaker 1 (13:12):
The ropes fell away, and David rubbed his wrists.
Speaker 7 (13:16):
Very well, Gorrifak. Since you have killed my last champion,
I have been in need of a warrior to guard
my holdings. There is a place called Ziglak, a herding country,
small but vulnerable. Take it, defend it. Waid for me
on the fringes, and bring me back half your plunder.
Speaker 1 (13:39):
David bowed low, hiding the smirk, threatening to target his lips.
As he turned to leave, Akish called after him, Gorrizak.
David stopped, glancing over his shoulder.
Speaker 7 (13:53):
I will be watching you.
Speaker 5 (13:56):
The eyes of Dagon draw from the land, double cross
me and everyone under your command will be fed to
my dogs.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
David bowed his head. With that, he strode through the
great wooden doors, out of the lion's den and back
to the waiting wolves in the mountains.
Speaker 9 (14:23):
There's no way I am serving that uncircumcised monster of
a king.
Speaker 1 (14:28):
Abish eye's voice rang out across the fire, his rage
as hot as the embers burning between them. His hand
clutched the hilt of his sword, his knuckles white with frustration.
Around him, the others murmured in agreement. David stood at
the center, the firelight dancing across his face, but he
(14:49):
did not waver.
Speaker 2 (14:50):
I have to agree with the boy. There are enemies,
and you're asking for us to make them richer. You're
asking us to be their servants.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
David looked at each of them in turn, jashabem Eliezer,
Abeshi and the others. These were not ordinary men. They
were the best warriors in all Israel, men who had
bled and killed for him, men who had left everything
behind to follow him, And yet now they stood on
(15:25):
the edge of rebellion. David took a deep breath. He
understood their anger, He felt it too.
Speaker 3 (15:33):
I hear you, brothers. But let me ask you this.
If I would step foot in Gibea and stand before
Saul's thrown in the same way I did before Akish,
what would have happened.
Speaker 1 (15:44):
He stepped closer to the fire, his eyes burning with conviction.
Speaker 3 (15:50):
Saul moved three thousand men from Gibea to hunt us,
three thousand against six hundred. We were nearly caught at Hakula,
We barely escaped Maeon, and we will never be safe
so long as Saul sits on that throne.
Speaker 1 (16:04):
The men exchanged glances. They're rage giving way to grim understanding.
Speaker 3 (16:10):
Saul is a madman. His desires are unknown and unpredictable.
But the Philistines they're simple. They want plunder, they want treasure.
If we give it to them, we'll be safe at.
Speaker 7 (16:26):
The expense of our kin.
Speaker 1 (16:27):
Back in Israel, David's lips curled into a knowing smirk.
Speaker 3 (16:32):
We're going to appease Akish, protect Israel and have our
own land.
Speaker 7 (16:38):
Sure, and I'm going to marry the Pharaoh's daughter and
be fanned in a palace for the rest of my life.
We're gonna have it all.
Speaker 3 (16:45):
We will have it all. I have a plan. As
long as we bring Akish spoils, he will see us
as allies. But listen closely. We will not raid Israelite cones.
We will strike the enemy of Israel, the Gesherites, the Guizites,
the Amalekites. We will raid their cities, take their flocks,
(17:07):
kill their warriors, and we'll tell Aikish that we've raided
the lands of Israel. He will grow rich, he will
trust us, and all the while Israel will be safe
for it.
Speaker 1 (17:20):
Silence hung over the camp David met each of their gazes.
Speaker 3 (17:25):
If Akish believes we have turned against Israel, he'll defend
us when the time comes. And if he ever betrays us,
we are already in the countryside. We can disappear in
an instant.
Speaker 2 (17:42):
You're playing with fire. Giants laugh.
Speaker 3 (17:45):
There are fools who walk into the lions.
Speaker 1 (17:48):
Then none of the men understood the reference. David miss
Jonathan missed his reassuring presence, his wisdom. It was a
dangerous game David was playing. That They were all tired,
tired of running, tired of sleeping in caves. Their wives
(18:09):
and children needed a home, and if David could give
it to them, if he could carve out a place
for them in the very lands of their enemies, then
perhaps it was worth the risk. One by one they nodded,
So be it.
Speaker 5 (18:26):
Ah, we will follow you, David, We always will.
Speaker 1 (18:30):
David exhaled, relief washing over him.
Speaker 3 (18:34):
Then we go to Zicklag.
Speaker 1 (18:37):
The land of Ziklag was no grand city, no seat
of power, but it was theirs. A desolate countryside dotted
with the occasional plot for farming. But there was fertile land,
enough space to build homes to raise flocks for the
first time in years, David's people had shelter. For a
(19:00):
year and four months they lived in the land of
the Philistines, and during that time David's warriors became something
else entirely. Their swords were quick, their ambushes legendary. They
raided the cities of the Gesherites, the Gyzites, the Amalekites,
striking fast, leaving no survivors, taking what they needed and
(19:24):
destroying the rest. Sheep, oxen, donkeys, camels, garments, anything of
value was claimed. The enemies of Israel suffered, and yet
Israel did not even know who their silent defender was.
Week after week, David and his men returned to Gath
with their spoils, and each time King Akish grinned, raising
(19:49):
his goblet in triumph. The King of Gath grew fat
on David's victories. Believing his once greatest enemy had turned
in to his most loyal warrior. He drank to David's name.
He called him his champion. He trusted him completely. He
(20:09):
did not see the wolf in his halls, and so
while Saul still hunted him, David and his warriors carved
out their place in the world, not as exiles, not
as outcasts, but as the true defenders of Israel, and
the men who had once been hunted like dogs became
(20:31):
the most feared warriors in the land. Yet David's victories
were built from a foundation of lies, a shaky foundation.
It was only a matter of time before everything fell.
Speaker 6 (20:52):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her of you read them, and me personally, I
cherish them as you venture forth boldly and faithfully. I
leave you with the biblical blessing from numbers six Iva
Hashem vischmerechra Yeah Heir hashempanave eleven ye sa hashempanave lechra.
Speaker 1 (21:21):
Salon.
Speaker 6 (21:22):
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the
Lord make his face shine upon you. May he be
gracious to you. Made the Lord turn his face towards
you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (21:34):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with Isle
Exstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the Pray
dot Com app today. This Prey Dog comproduction is only
made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents, Steve Katina,
Max Bard, Zach Shellavaga and Ben Gammon are the executive
(21:55):
producers of The Chosen People with Yaile Exstein, edited by
Alberto narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton,
Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc,
Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and the opening prayer is
(22:16):
voiced by John Moore. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith, written
by Aaron Salvado, bre Rosalie and Chris Baig. Special thanks
to Bishop Paul Lanier, Robin van Ettin, Kayleb Burrows, Jocelyn Fuller,
and the team at International Fellowship of Christians and Jews.
You can hear more Prey dot com productions on the
(22:36):
Prey dot com app, available on the Apple App Store
and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed The Chosen People
with Yile Eckstein, please rate and leave a review.
Previously on the chosen people.
Speaker 2 (00:03):
Abner Ready three thousand men. I will take no more chances.
We march at Once.
Speaker 3 (00:15):
Saul swore to me that he would not pursue me.
Clearly he's broken his word. I will go and remind
him of his disgrace.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
David crouched at the entrance of Saul's tent. There lay
the king. Saul's breathing was deep and steady. By his
head stood his spear planted firmly in the earth, its
steel tip gleaming in the dim light. David knelt, curling
his fingers around the shaft of the spear. Slowly, steadily,
(00:48):
he pulled it from the ground, his grip firm but measured, My.
Speaker 3 (00:52):
King, go ahead, see where your spear is. You'll not
find it beside your bed, and rather next me, along
with your jar of water. It his me, So it's
always been me. What have I done to you? To Lauren?
Such hatred? Hear me, Oh King, As I leave with
(01:14):
you one last.
Speaker 4 (01:15):
Time before all your men, let it be known that
this is twice now that I've had the opportunity to
slay you, and twice now I have shown you mercy.
Speaker 3 (01:27):
Even though you seek my life. I have not raised
a hand against you.
Speaker 2 (01:32):
I have sinned against you. David, David, he was wrong.
Speaker 1 (01:45):
David turned, looking over the hills, past the land of Judah,
past Israel itself.
Speaker 5 (01:52):
No more running, no.
Speaker 3 (01:54):
More hiding in the wilderness, waiting for a man king
to change his mind.
Speaker 1 (01:58):
Silently, with a steady march, the giant Slayer led his
men into the realm of Philistines.
Speaker 6 (02:12):
Shello, my friends, from here in the holy Land of Israel.
I'm ya l Exstein with the International Fellowship of Christians
and Jews, and welcome to the Chosen People. Each day
we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible, stories
filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the meaning
of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this truth
(02:34):
that we are all chosen for something great.
Speaker 3 (02:38):
So take a moment.
Speaker 6 (02:39):
Today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling extra grateful
for these stories, we would love it if you left
us a review. I read every single one of them,
and if you're interested in hearing more about the prophetic,
life saving work of the Fellowship, you can visit IFCJ
dot Org. Let's begin.
Speaker 1 (03:02):
The sun glared down on the wasteland outside Felictia, a
molten eye scorching the backs of David and his men
as they trudged westward. The desert had no mercy, and
neither did soar. There was no rest, no moment of
respite from the ever looming threat of the mad king's spear.
(03:25):
David clenched his jaw and pressed on. This was the
only way. Behind him, six hundred warriors marched, their faces
hardened by exile, their wives and children trailing behind in
weary silence. The dust clung to their clothes, sweat tracing
(03:46):
lines through the filth on their skin. Beside David, Abshi
kept pace, his fingers tight around the shaft of his spear.
Speaker 5 (03:56):
I know you're intent on leaving Israel, but are you
certain that running into the arms of the enemy as
the wisest path. The Philistines haven't forgotten the men who
butchered their brothers.
Speaker 1 (04:06):
David did not slow.
Speaker 3 (04:09):
While Saul sits on his throne. We have no home
within Israel's borders. Better to face known enemies right in
your face and sitting vulnerable with hidden ones all around.
Speaker 1 (04:20):
His words were cold, but Joshabine could hear the exhaustion
in them. David was weary of running. They all were ahead.
The desert sands gave way to jagged rock. The road
twisted into a ravine, the cliffs pressing close on either side.
(04:40):
David tensed, the feeling prickled at the back of his neck,
a hunter's instinct. They were being watched.
Speaker 3 (04:48):
I smell an ambush.
Speaker 7 (04:50):
Be ready.
Speaker 1 (04:51):
Joshabin tightened his grip and signaled to the others to
poise themselves. They pressed forward deeper into the canyon, the
looming walls swallowing the sky. The city of Gath lay
beyond the stronghold of the Philistines, a place David had
once escaped by feigning madness. It was a coarse and
(05:13):
ugly city, a monument to its people hunger for size
and strength over beauty. Its towers jutted into the sky
like broken teeth, its walls built thick and high with
rough hewn stone. They were nearly through when David heard it,
the shift of rock above them.
Speaker 3 (05:35):
Grace for attack.
Speaker 1 (05:36):
Steel flashed in the sun as the Philistines swarmed from
the cliffs. David's men moved in an instant, a shield
wall forming around the women and children. Swords scraped from scabbards.
The Philistines poured down like wools, scenting blood. But before
the first blokeuld Land, David ran forward. He threw his
(05:59):
hands into the air and dropped to his knees. The
suddenness of the gesture stopped the Philistine's mid stride. Spears
hovered inches from his throat. David lifted his voice, letting
it ring through the canyon.
Speaker 3 (06:14):
Wait, listen to me.
Speaker 5 (06:17):
Do you know who I am?
Speaker 1 (06:19):
The Philistines did not lower their weapons.
Speaker 3 (06:22):
I'm David, son of Jesse. You may know me as
the Giant Slayer.
Speaker 1 (06:28):
The Philistines writhed. At that, the spears inched even closer
to David's throat, Jasherbeemon. The others flinched, but David jerked
his head to stop them.
Speaker 3 (06:40):
I don't come as an enemy, but as a refugee.
My men, their wives and children seek the mercy of
your king. Take me to him. Mind my hands if.
Speaker 1 (06:52):
You must silence. The Philistines shifted uncertain behind him. David
caught Abbessh's eye.
Speaker 3 (07:01):
Keep them safe, You're in charge.
Speaker 1 (07:04):
While I said on this, Abishi hesitated his expression like flint,
then gave a short nod. The Philistines moved swiftly, rope
spit into David's wrists as they bound him and hauled
him to his feet. His men watched intense silence as
he was led away, disappearing behind the cliffs. Then, with
(07:28):
no choice left, they gathered their families and retreated into
the shadow of the mountains, and they waited. David had
been to Gath once before, and it had nearly cost
him his life. The first time, he had played the fool,
(07:48):
scratching at doors, letting his spit dribble down his beard
like a madman. It had been the only way to escape,
with his head still on his shoulders. Now he entered
as a warrior, bound and guarded, but a warrior. Nonetheless,
the city had not changed. It was still jagged and crude,
(08:10):
built for strength rather than beauty. The streets were uneven,
the alleys twisted, the walls rough hewn and looming. Gath
was a city of war, and its people bore the
scars of it. The palace was no different. Furs of
beasts draped over the stone walls, their glassy eyes reflecting
(08:33):
the firelight. Smoke curled from the braziers in all four corners.
The air thick with the scent of charred meat and
spilt wine. The heat of the hall was suffocating, but
David kept his breath steady as he was dragged before
the throne. King Akish was no mere figurehead like saw
(08:56):
Haikish was a warlord, a man carved from blood in battle.
He was taller than most, his arms thick as tree trunks,
his face hardened by years of conquest. His beard was
braided with gold bands, and his eyes black. As an
abyss settled on David with amused curiosity. David fell to
(09:19):
one knee, bowing his head low. He knew how to
play this game.
Speaker 3 (09:24):
He Akish live forever. May the God of my forefathers
bless you for your kindness in releasing me. When last
we met, I was not in my right mind.
Speaker 1 (09:35):
Akish rose from his throne with a slow, deliberate motion.
The ground trembled beneath his feet as he descended the steps,
standing over David like a lion deciding whether to toy
with its prey or tear it apart.
Speaker 8 (09:50):
You were a raving lunatic when I last saw you,
giant slayer, and now you returned to me mind and
act with an army at my doorstep.
Speaker 7 (10:03):
Tell me which David stands before me now, the commander
or the madman?
Speaker 3 (10:11):
Neither, My lord, I come to you as a servant
and a refugee.
Speaker 9 (10:16):
A servant, you pah, you who once slew my champion,
you who bathed in the blood of my countrymen.
Speaker 3 (10:28):
My good lord Akish, I do.
Speaker 9 (10:30):
Not bring your formalities into my harse. David gotafak Shian slayer.
We are no Hebrews with your precious ceremonies and records.
Speaker 7 (10:40):
We are dark muth, the earthborn of Deacon.
Speaker 8 (10:46):
Speak plainly, no pleasantries or flattery.
Speaker 1 (10:51):
David paused and lifted his head. He stood, stretching his
neck to meet Akish eye to eye. The Steins were
a people of war. If David wanted respect, he couldn't
speak in the tongue of lords. He needed to be
hard as stone and cold as ice.
Speaker 3 (11:11):
I've slain giants for Israel. In return, they made me
an exile. I'm hunted like a dog by Saul's men.
We are warriors without a country. We are swords with
no flesh to cut into. Allow us to settle here,
and our swords are yours.
Speaker 7 (11:32):
I already have men to guard my borders. Why should
I take an enemy of my people.
Speaker 3 (11:38):
I've fought against your men. I know their strengths and
I know their weaknesses. You have numbers but no skill.
Your troops are impatient, bloodthirsty, and stupid. Let my men
dwell on your land, and I will show you why
I'm feared. From Gath to Agog.
Speaker 1 (11:59):
Akish studied him, stroking his thick beard.
Speaker 8 (12:03):
Shall I really spare the man who has butchered my
warriors and let him live in my kingdom?
Speaker 9 (12:10):
What kind of king would I be to allow such
a thing.
Speaker 3 (12:14):
The kind of king who could claim he tamed the
giant slayer.
Speaker 1 (12:18):
The silence was heavy. David did not break it. He
knew what came next. Akish leaned in, would.
Speaker 7 (12:27):
You fight your own people under my command?
Speaker 3 (12:32):
Yes?
Speaker 1 (12:33):
The word left David's lips without hesitation, smooth as a
dagger slipping between ribs. It was a lie, but it
was all a part of a larger gain. David had
a plan, one that required precision. Akish searched his face,
looking for cracks in his conviction.
Speaker 7 (12:56):
Saul has made you a hunted dog, and now.
Speaker 5 (13:01):
You bare your things at him.
Speaker 1 (13:04):
David only nodded slowly. Akish smirked. He gestured to his guards.
Speaker 7 (13:11):
Cut him loose.
Speaker 1 (13:12):
The ropes fell away, and David rubbed his wrists.
Speaker 7 (13:16):
Very well, Gorrifak. Since you have killed my last champion,
I have been in need of a warrior to guard
my holdings. There is a place called Ziglak, a herding country,
small but vulnerable. Take it, defend it. Waid for me
on the fringes, and bring me back half your plunder.
Speaker 1 (13:39):
David bowed low, hiding the smirk, threatening to target his lips.
As he turned to leave, Akish called after him, Gorrizak.
David stopped, glancing over his shoulder.
Speaker 7 (13:53):
I will be watching you.
Speaker 5 (13:56):
The eyes of Dagon draw from the land, double cross
me and everyone under your command will be fed to
my dogs.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
David bowed his head. With that, he strode through the
great wooden doors, out of the lion's den and back
to the waiting wolves in the mountains.
Speaker 9 (14:23):
There's no way I am serving that uncircumcised monster of
a king.
Speaker 1 (14:28):
Abish eye's voice rang out across the fire, his rage
as hot as the embers burning between them. His hand
clutched the hilt of his sword, his knuckles white with frustration.
Around him, the others murmured in agreement. David stood at
the center, the firelight dancing across his face, but he
(14:49):
did not waver.
Speaker 2 (14:50):
I have to agree with the boy. There are enemies,
and you're asking for us to make them richer. You're
asking us to be their servants.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
David looked at each of them in turn, jashabem Eliezer,
Abeshi and the others. These were not ordinary men. They
were the best warriors in all Israel, men who had
bled and killed for him, men who had left everything
behind to follow him, And yet now they stood on
(15:25):
the edge of rebellion. David took a deep breath. He
understood their anger, He felt it too.
Speaker 3 (15:33):
I hear you, brothers. But let me ask you this.
If I would step foot in Gibea and stand before
Saul's thrown in the same way I did before Akish,
what would have happened.
Speaker 1 (15:44):
He stepped closer to the fire, his eyes burning with conviction.
Speaker 3 (15:50):
Saul moved three thousand men from Gibea to hunt us,
three thousand against six hundred. We were nearly caught at Hakula,
We barely escaped Maeon, and we will never be safe
so long as Saul sits on that throne.
Speaker 1 (16:04):
The men exchanged glances. They're rage giving way to grim understanding.
Speaker 3 (16:10):
Saul is a madman. His desires are unknown and unpredictable.
But the Philistines they're simple. They want plunder, they want treasure.
If we give it to them, we'll be safe at.
Speaker 7 (16:26):
The expense of our kin.
Speaker 1 (16:27):
Back in Israel, David's lips curled into a knowing smirk.
Speaker 3 (16:32):
We're going to appease Akish, protect Israel and have our
own land.
Speaker 7 (16:38):
Sure, and I'm going to marry the Pharaoh's daughter and
be fanned in a palace for the rest of my life.
We're gonna have it all.
Speaker 3 (16:45):
We will have it all. I have a plan. As
long as we bring Akish spoils, he will see us
as allies. But listen closely. We will not raid Israelite cones.
We will strike the enemy of Israel, the Gesherites, the Guizites,
the Amalekites. We will raid their cities, take their flocks,
(17:07):
kill their warriors, and we'll tell Aikish that we've raided
the lands of Israel. He will grow rich, he will
trust us, and all the while Israel will be safe
for it.
Speaker 1 (17:20):
Silence hung over the camp David met each of their gazes.
Speaker 3 (17:25):
If Akish believes we have turned against Israel, he'll defend
us when the time comes. And if he ever betrays us,
we are already in the countryside. We can disappear in
an instant.
Speaker 2 (17:42):
You're playing with fire. Giants laugh.
Speaker 3 (17:45):
There are fools who walk into the lions.
Speaker 1 (17:48):
Then none of the men understood the reference. David miss
Jonathan missed his reassuring presence, his wisdom. It was a
dangerous game David was playing. That They were all tired,
tired of running, tired of sleeping in caves. Their wives
(18:09):
and children needed a home, and if David could give
it to them, if he could carve out a place
for them in the very lands of their enemies, then
perhaps it was worth the risk. One by one they nodded,
So be it.
Speaker 5 (18:26):
Ah, we will follow you, David, We always will.
Speaker 1 (18:30):
David exhaled, relief washing over him.
Speaker 3 (18:34):
Then we go to Zicklag.
Speaker 1 (18:37):
The land of Ziklag was no grand city, no seat
of power, but it was theirs. A desolate countryside dotted
with the occasional plot for farming. But there was fertile land,
enough space to build homes to raise flocks for the
first time in years, David's people had shelter. For a
(19:00):
year and four months they lived in the land of
the Philistines, and during that time David's warriors became something
else entirely. Their swords were quick, their ambushes legendary. They
raided the cities of the Gesherites, the Gyzites, the Amalekites,
striking fast, leaving no survivors, taking what they needed and
(19:24):
destroying the rest. Sheep, oxen, donkeys, camels, garments, anything of
value was claimed. The enemies of Israel suffered, and yet
Israel did not even know who their silent defender was.
Week after week, David and his men returned to Gath
with their spoils, and each time King Akish grinned, raising
(19:49):
his goblet in triumph. The King of Gath grew fat
on David's victories. Believing his once greatest enemy had turned
in to his most loyal warrior. He drank to David's name.
He called him his champion. He trusted him completely. He
(20:09):
did not see the wolf in his halls, and so
while Saul still hunted him, David and his warriors carved
out their place in the world, not as exiles, not
as outcasts, but as the true defenders of Israel, and
the men who had once been hunted like dogs became
(20:31):
the most feared warriors in the land. Yet David's victories
were built from a foundation of lies, a shaky foundation.
It was only a matter of time before everything fell.
Speaker 6 (20:52):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her of you read them, and me personally, I
cherish them as you venture forth boldly and faithfully. I
leave you with the biblical blessing from numbers six Iva
Hashem vischmerechra Yeah Heir hashempanave eleven ye sa hashempanave lechra.
Speaker 1 (21:21):
Salon.
Speaker 6 (21:22):
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the
Lord make his face shine upon you. May he be
gracious to you. Made the Lord turn his face towards
you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (21:34):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with Isle
Exstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the Pray
dot Com app today. This Prey Dog comproduction is only
made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents, Steve Katina,
Max Bard, Zach Shellavaga and Ben Gammon are the executive
(21:55):
producers of The Chosen People with Yaile Exstein, edited by
Alberto narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton,
Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc,
Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and the opening prayer is
(22:16):
voiced by John Moore. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith, written
by Aaron Salvado, bre Rosalie and Chris Baig. Special thanks
to Bishop Paul Lanier, Robin van Ettin, Kayleb Burrows, Jocelyn Fuller,
and the team at International Fellowship of Christians and Jews.
You can hear more Prey dot com productions on the
(22:36):
Prey dot com app, available on the Apple App Store
and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed The Chosen People
with Yile Eckstein, please rate and leave a review.
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.