ACHISH
“snake charmer.”
(a) Philistine king of Gath. David twice took refuge under his protection, pursued by Saul. The first time his servants reminded him how David was reputed to have killed “his ten thousand.”
When David heard this, he was afraid and feigned madness, and Achish had him expelled (1 Sam. 21:10-15). The second time David fled from Saul, Achish gave him the city of Ziklag.
When Achish asked him to help him in his war against Israel, David was forced, much to his chagrin, to join the Philistine army. However, the other princes refused to accept his help, fearing that David would go over to the enemy (1 Sam. 27, 28).
(b) Another king of Gath, where Shimei’s servants sought refuge. This led to the death of Shimei (1 Kings 2:39, 40).