Definition: And David smote the land, and left neither man nor woman alive, and took away the sheep, and the oxen, and the asses, and the camels, and the apparel, and returned, and came to Achish.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this difficult passage from 1 Samuel 27:9. It’s a really shocking and brutal account of a devastating event in David's past. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Core of the Story: David, after being anointed king of Israel, was incredibly ambitious. He wanted to become the king, and he believed that means taking over everything – including people. He decided to completely annihilate the entire population of Israel. Here’s a simplified breakdown: “And David smote the land…” : This is a strong statement. It means he deliberately destroyed the land itself. He didn't just cause some trouble; he actively ravaged it. “…and left neither man nor woman alive…” : This is the most horrifying part. David systematically killed everyone – men, women, children, and even animals. He did this with a complete lack of mercy or concern for human life. “And took away the sheep, and the oxen, and the asses, and the camels, and the apparel…” : He didn't just kill people; he destroyed their possessions – everything they owned! This was a brutal display of power and disregard. “…and returned, and came to Achish.” : David then fled from Israel, fleeing to Achish, a small village in the region. What’s the Significance? This story is a powerful reminder of the dangers of unchecked ambition and cruelty. It shows: David's Obsession: His desire for absolute power led him down a dark path. The Consequences of Pride: His pride (a characteristic he was already struggling with) resulted in this horrific act. A Moment of Darkness: It represents a very dark and destructive period in David’s life, highlighting the potential for evil when unchecked by righteousness. Important Note: This story is incredibly disturbing. It's important to remember that it describes a profound tragedy and a moment of extreme violence. It’s a stark illustration of how power can corrupt. Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, we could delve into: The context of the story (David's reign) The religious significance of the event The meaning of "smote" - what does it mean to strike someone with a blow?