Hareth, forest of
David's refuge when by Gad's counsel he quitted the "hold" of the cave of Adullam, or else Mizpeh of Moab (1 Samuel 22:5). Ganneau would identify with Herche ("forests") near Yale; but Septuagint and Josephus speak of "the city of Hareth." There could have been no forests in that part of Israel. It answers to Kharas, a mile above Keilah, among inaccessible ravines, but easily reached from the valley of Elah. Ruined walls, cisterns, and caves are to be seen. (Conder, Israel Exploration) (See KEILAH.)
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