The Amalekites had invaded the south Namely, the southern part of Judah, and the adjacent country. This, probably, they had done to revenge themselves for David's invading their country, mentioned 1 Samuel 27:8. And smitten Ziklag, and burned it with fire Which they might easily do when David and his men were absent, and but a small, if any, guard left in the place. And had taken the women captives And among the rest David's two wives. They slew not any, but carried them away Toward their own country. Being a poor and very covetous people, they doubtless intended to sell them for slaves, and make money of them. How great must have been the surprise, and how inexpressible the grief of David and his men, when they came to the town, to find it utterly desolated, and burned down to the ground, and all the persons and property left therein taken away!
Related Commentaries of 1 Samuel 30:1
1 Samuel 30:1-2
1 And it came to pass, when David and his men were come to Ziklag on the third day, that the Amalekites had invaded the south, and Ziklag, and smitten Ziklag, and burned it with fire;
2 And had taken the women captives, that were therein: they slew not any, either great or small, but carried them away, and went on their way.