David fled to Achish, the king of Gath; for he felt that there was more safety in the midst of the enemies of his people than in the dominions of Saul. But it was reported to Achish that David was the man who had slain the Philistine champion years before; and now he who had sought refuge with the foes of Israel found himself in great peril. But, feigning madness, he deceived his enemies and thus made his escape.

David flygtede derpå til kong Akisj af Gat. Han følte, at han ikke ville være i så stor fare hos sit folks fjender som i Sauls rige. Men Akisjs folk sagde til deres herre, at det var David, der havde dræbt filisternes kæmpe for nogle år siden. David havde søgt tilflugt hos Israels fjender for at redde livet, men nu var han i stor fare. Det lykkedes ham dog at føre sine fjender bag lyset ved at foregive, at han var afsindig; på den måde slap han bort fra dem.