John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 8. And Saul called all the people together to war , etc.] Or “caused [them] to hear” summoned them by an herald, whom he sent into all parts of the kingdom to proclaim war, and require them in his name to attend him; which was the prerogative of a king to do: to go down to Keilah, to besiege David and his men ; that was what he privately intended, but the pretence was to make war against the Philistines.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 7-13 - Well might David complain of his enemies, that they rewarded him evi for good, and that for his love they were his adversaries. Christ wa used thus basely. David applied to his great Protector for direction No sooner was the ephod brought him than he made use of it. We have the Scriptures in our hands, let us take advice from them in doubtfu cases. Say, Bring hither the Bible. David's address to God is very solemn, also very particular. God allows us to be so in our addresse to him; Lord, direct me in this matter, about which I am now at a loss God knows not only what will be, but what would be, if it were no hindered; therefore he knows how to deliver the godly out of temptation, and how to render to every man according to his works.
Original Hebrew וישׁמע8085 שׁאול7586 את853 כל3605 העם5971 למלחמה4421 לרדת3381 קעילה7084 לצור6696 אל413 דוד1732 ואל413 אנשׁיו׃376
