The answer is: He pretended to be insane

1 Samuel 21:13 - He scratched the doors of the gate and dribbled down his beard

When David found himself in the hands of King Achish, he pulled off a stunt that was both dramatic and clever! In 1 Samuel 21:13, the so-called "man after God's own heart" resorted to acting like he had lost his mind—scratching the gates and letting drool dribble down his beard. This wild act not only served as a way to protect himself, but it's a fascinating display of quick thinking under pressure!

David's behavior has echoes of a common theme throughout history and literature: the wise fool. In many cultures, those who feign madness can navigate dangerous situations or convey truths that others cannot. From Shakespeare’s "King Lear" to the ancient Greeks, the archetype of the "mad" person often has deeper insights than those around them.

Interestingly, some biblical scholars view David's actions as a comment on human vulnerability. After all, he was once a celebrated warrior—this sudden descent into madness symbolizes moments when we all feel overwhelmed or powerless. And it serves as a reminder that sometimes the best way to solve a problem is to step outside ourselves, think differently, and embrace humility.

It's also noteworthy that Gath, a Philistine city, serves as a backdrop to David's story of mercy and survival. This emphasizes a broader narrative of conflict and coexistence found in many relationships across cultures in the Bible. King Achish eventually saw through David's ruse and realized he wasn’t the threatening figure he'd assumed, showcasing the fickle nature of power and perception.