Bible Figure
Achish
Biblical character (First Book of Samuel)
Achish was a Philistine king of Gath with whom David sought refuge while fleeing Saul.
Biography
David twice appears before a king of Gath named Achish. On an earlier occasion David feared for his life and feigned insanity. Later, during prolonged flight from Saul, David entered Achish's service with six hundred men and was given Ziklag. David conducted raids while leading Achish to believe he was attacking Judahite interests, and Achish came to trust him. When the Philistines assembled to fight Israel, Achish intended David to accompany him, but the other Philistine rulers objected. David was therefore dismissed before the battle in which Saul died.
Biblical Significance
Achish's role illuminates the precarious circumstances of David's exile and the complicated relationship between David and Israel's Philistine enemies before he became king.