The answer is: He pretended to be insane

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

David's visit to King Achish in Gath is nothing short of a dramatic Hollywood scene—right from the pages of the Bible! Imagine a once-heroic king, hailed for slaying Goliath, now reduced to feigning madness. David found himself on the run from King Saul, who was relentlessly pursuing him. On the surface, it might seem peculiar that he would choose to act insane to gain favor or security from Achish, the Philistine king!

This act of madness, detailed in 1 Samuel 21:13, reflects the desperation David feels as he seeks refuge. Scratching at the gates and letting drool escape, he paints a picture of disarray. It's captivating that even in desperate times, some individuals resort to instinctive and creative means of survival. David cleverly used the perceptions of insanity—a state attributed to divine favor or demonic influence in ancient times—to steer clear of permanent capture.

It's interesting to note how David contrasts with certain other biblical figures who embrace loyalty and bravery throughout their tales. Here, the strategy is about self-preservation and cunning rather than martial prowess.

This moment also sets up significant relationships throughout the narrative, including a later part where Achish appears to trust David—a clever pivot to navigate a dangerous world. The themes of shelter, trust, and incredulity extend beyond David and resonate with many archetypes where values and survival joel get engaged in narratives towering age-old troubles. By embracing the unexpected, David’s story remains vibrant and relatable, evoking how leaders often adapt their strategies in the face of crisis.