John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 5. And the prophet Gad said unto David , etc.] Who either accompanied him in his exile, or was sent unto him on this account, being one of the company of the prophets, over whom Samuel was president, ( 1 Samuel 19:20); abide not in the hold, depart, and get thee into the land of Judah ; this seems to confirm it that the hold David was in was not the cave of Adullam, because that was in the tribe of Judah; but rather some hold in the land of Moab, which he is directed by the prophet to leave, and go into the country of Judah, his own tribe, where Saul would not be so forward to pursue him, and where he would be among his friends, and in the way, upon Saul’s death, to be anointed king over Judah; besides, appearing more openly would show the innocence of his cause, and his confidence in the Lord, more than to lurk about in a foreign land: then David departed ; from “Mizpeh” in “Moab”; or, however, from the hold in which he was: and came into the forest of Hareth ; where he would have places and opportunity enough to hide himself as he saw fit. Jerom speaks of a village called Arath, where David abode, to the west of Jerusalem. Kimchi says this was a dry barren place, but for the sake of David it was made by the Lord a well watered and fruitful one.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 1-5 - See what weak instruments God sometimes uses, to bring about his ow purposes. The Son of David is ready to receive distressed souls, wh will be commanded by him. He receives all who come unto Him, howeve vile and miserable; he changes them into a holy people, and employ them in his service: those who would reign with him must be contente first to suffer with and for him. Observe with what tender concer David provided for his aged parents. The first thing he does is to fin them a quiet habitation, whatever became of himself. Let children lear to honour their parents, in every thing consulting their ease an satisfaction. Though highly preferred, and much employed, let them no forget their aged parents. The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord. And the Lord will preserve his people for their appointed work however they may be hated and exposed.
Original Hebrew ויאמר559 גד1410 הנביא5030 אל413 דוד1732 לא3808 תשׁב3427 במצודה4686 לך1980 ובאת935 לך ארץ776 יהודה3063 וילך1980 דוד1732 ויבא935 יער3293 חרת׃2802
