Scholars are divided on the morality of David's actions. Some, like John Gill, argue David was righteously carrying out God's long-standing command to destroy the Amalekites and Canaanites. Others, like Charles Ellicott, view it as "ferocious barbarity" since David had no specific, current command from God for this slaughter, making it an act of ruthless cruelty done to cover his deception of King Achish.