Ein Gedi: One of the dramatic attempts at taking David’s life was at Ein Gedi. It is close to the Dead Sea and as one goes up the canyon away from the Dead Sea, the desert turns into a narrow oasis. Nowadays, as well as in former days, abundant wildlife thrives in the oasis canyon of Ein Gedi. There are waterfalls fed by springs that crash about three hundred feet down. Close by, numerous hot sulphur springs spew out their healing waters. A mod­ern sign at the roadway leading to Ein Gedi might read, “Welcome to take a bath at Ein Gedi - we have hot and cold running water, naturally!”

“Cover His Feet:” In that canyon is a cave where David was hiding from Saul, who was on one of his mur­derous episodes. Saul, inadvertently, went into that same cave to “cover his feet.” The meetinghouse library picture of this event usually shows Saul asleep with his feet covered. The term actually means to “relieve himself.” (Maybe we’ll just leave this event un-illustrated!)

Inferred Meanings: When David had cut Saul’s garment and show­ed him the piece, Saul realized that David could have killed him. Yet David used the opportunity to bear his witness. He would not kill the Lord’s anoint­ed. Saul probably understood that the statement was also valid in reverse . . . neither should Saul kill the Lord’s anointed. This logic is bet­ter understood by realizing that Hebrew is a language of inference. Often things said contain more meanings than the obvious words.

Special Friendships: The friendship of David and Jonathan is still reflected in Israeli society. Long term, true friend­ships are created as young men and women serve in the military at the age of eighteen. In the army a bank president can be a jeep driver for an officer who is his employee. They trust and depend on each other. Their friendship transcends their civilian relationship.

Lament of David–Tribute to Soldiers: The biblical verses read at the memorial services of a fallen Israeli soldier include the following lamentation of David.