David Continues to Escape from King Saul

Last week's post was about David’s first stop during his escape from King Saul, at the cave of Adullam. If you missed that post, you can still view it here: Adullam.

One of the next stops on his escape route from King Saul was Ein-Gedi – an oasis in the Judean desert. It was a perfect place as a refuge as it was not easily accessible; the many caves in the area were perfect for shelter and hiding; water was not an issue and neither was food with so many animals coming to drink from the springs.

When King Saul learnt of David’s whereabouts, he selected 3,000 soldiers to come and kill David in Ein-Gedi.

Even though David had the opportunity to kill King Saul, he did not do so, as you’ll learn from the video you are about to see.

The fact that he did not seize upon the opportunity to kill King Saul showed he was worthy of being King. If he would have killed him it would be like any other revolt against a King. By sparing King Saul’s life David demonstrates to his people that he is a man of principles and values.

Ein-Gedi remained an important place after King David’s rule. During the 2nd Holy Temple period a large and wealthy Jewish community lived in Ein-Gedi. It is told that they held the secret recipe for the production of the Aparsemon (persimmon) Perfume and that Queen Cleopatra (ancient Egypt) sent her representatives to buy this perfume and bring it back to her. When the mosaic floor of this synagogue was uncovered, the following inscription was found: “dammed be the person who reveals the secret recipe of the Aparsemon…” Thus, till today, no one knows how to make this perfume or how it smells.

When the Romans (the 10th legion) put a siege on Masada, they used Ein-Gedi as their logistic base where they kept all their food, water & supplies that would feed the 9,000 soldiers of the legion.

Today, Ein-Gedi – the oasis in the desert – is a wonderful National Park hosting many visitors from Israel and all over the world.

Enjoy the video.