Tell it not in Gath, &c. Such a lamentable misfortune and disgrace, David would, if possible, have concealed from all the enemies of Israel. And he finely insinuates in these words what matter of triumph it would be to the Philistines, and seems scarce able to bear the thought of it, especially as it would be greatly to the dishonour both of God and his people. Lest the daughters, &c. He mentions these, because it was the custom of women in those times and places to celebrate with triumphal songs and dances those victories which their men obtained.
Related Commentaries of 2 Samuel 1:20
2 Samuel 1:20
20 Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Askelon; lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, lest the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph.