שמואל א, פרק כ״ג, פסוק י״ב

After confirming the immediate threat of Saul’s arrival, David must determine the loyalty of the city he has just rescued. The survival of David and his men depends entirely on the local inhabitants. If the people support him, they might withstand a prolonged siege, but betrayal would mean the end of any chance for survival [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Previously, David had asked God two questions out of order. Since the Urim and Thummim generally do not provide answers to two inquiries at the same time, God first answered the question that should have been asked initially, confirming that Saul was indeed on his way. Realizing his error, David now properly asks his remaining question [רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. He already knows that Saul plans to enter the city to attack him, making it critical to know exactly how the locals will react [מלבי״ם].

The inquiry focuses on the leaders and lords of the city, though it can also be understood as referring to all the inhabitants [רד״ק]. God provides a brief and direct answer, revealing that the people of the city fully intend to surrender David to Saul [מצודת דוד]. This planned betrayal comes despite the immense kindness David showed them by saving their city [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Ultimately, David flees the city and is not captured, which might raise the question of whether God's word failed to come true. However, God's response is not an absolute prophecy but rather a conditional description of the situation. He reveals the true intentions of both Saul and the local people, making it clear that if David chooses to stay, he will indeed be handed over. This information is given specifically as a warning, allowing David the opportunity to escape before it is too late [מלבי״ם].