2 Samuel 23:14

Verse

Berean Standard Bible

At that time David was in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was at Bethlehem.

American Standard Version (1901)

And David was then in the stronghold; and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Beth-lehem.

Bible in Basic English

And at that time David had taken cover in the strong place, and an armed force of the Philistines was in Beth-lehem.

Douay-Rheims 1899

And David was then in a hold. and there was a garrison of the Philistines then in Bethlehem.

Free Bible Version

At the time David was in the stronghold, and the Philistine garrison was in Bethlehem.

Geneva Bible 1599

And Dauid was then in an holde, and the garison of ye Philistims was then in Beth-lehem.

King James (Authorized) Version

And David was then in an hold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Beth-lehem.

Translation for Translators

David and his soldiers were in the cave because it was safe there, and another group of Philistia soldiers was occupying Bethlehem.

Unlocked Literal Bible

At that time David was in his stronghold, a cave, while the Philistines had established at Bethlehem.

Noah Webster Bible

And David was then in a hold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Beth-lehem.

World English Bible

David was then in the stronghold; and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem.

Young's Literal Translation

and David [is] then in a fortress, and the station of the Philistines [is] then in Beth-Lehem,

Context

David’s Mighty Men

¹³At harvest time, three of the thirty chief men went down to David at the cave of Adullam, while a company of Philistines was encamped in the Valley of Rephaim.¹⁴At that time David was in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was at Bethlehem.¹⁵David longed for water and said, “Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem!”

Summary

In this verse, David's mighty men demonstrate their loyalty and bravery by risking their lives to fulfill David's longing for water from the well of Bethlehem. Their act of selflessness and dedication highlights the deep bond between David and his warriors, showcasing their unwavering commitment to their leader. This story serves as a powerful example of sacrificial love and loyalty, illustrating the honor and respect these men had for David as their king. It also emphasizes the importance of unity and camaraderie among God's people, as they work together to support and uplift one another in times of need.

Commentary

John Gill

John Gill Bible Commentary

And David was then in an hold,.... In a strong hold; the strong hold of Zion, as Josephus (x), or one on a rock near the cave of Adullam, see Ch1 11:15, and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem; which was about six miles from Jerusalem; the valley of Rephaim lay between that and Bethlehem; so far had they got into the land of Judea, and such footing in it, as to have a garrison so near its metropolis. (x) Antiqu. l. 7. c. 12. sect. 4.