1. 1 Samuel 23:2 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

How did David inquire of the LORD?

1 Samuel 23:2 (ESV)

2 Therefore David inquired of the LORD, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” And the LORD said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.”

Though it is possible that David’s query was made through the prophet Gad (see 1 Samuel 22:5),1 it is more likely that he approached Abiathar and made use of the Urim and Thummim which were kept in the breastplate of the high priest (see Exodus 28:30; Numbers 27:21; 1 Samuel 14:41). It was likely two stones of different colouring which were used to give a Yes or a No answer to specific questions.2 By these means the Lord gave guidance to his old covenant king.