1 And it came to pass, when Saul was returned from following the Philistines, that it was told him, saying, Behold, David [is] in the wilderness of Engedi.
2 Then Saul took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and went to seek David and his men upon the rocks of the wild goats.
3 And he came to the sheepcotes by the way, where [was] a cave; and Saul went in to cover his feet: and David and his men remained in the sides of the cave.
4 And the men of David said unto him, Behold the day of which the LORD said unto thee, Behold, I will deliver thine enemy into thine hand, that thou mayest do to him as it shall seem good unto thee. Then David arose, and cut off the skirt of Saul’s robe privily.
5 And it came to pass afterward, that David’s heart smote him, because he had cut off Saul’s skirt.
6 And he said unto his men, The LORD forbid that I should do this thing unto my master, the LORD’S anointed, to stretch forth mine hand against him, seeing he [is] the anointed of the LORD.
7 So David stayed his servants with these words, and suffered them not to rise against Saul. But Saul rose up out of the cave, and went on [his] way.
8 David also arose afterward, and went out of the cave, and cried after Saul, saying, My lord the king. And when Saul looked behind him, David stooped with his face to the earth, and bowed himself.
9 And David said to Saul, Wherefore hearest thou men’s words, saying, Behold, David seeketh thy hurt?
10 Behold, this day thine eyes have seen how that the LORD had delivered thee to day into mine hand in the cave: and [some] bade [me] kill thee: but [mine eye] spared thee; and I said, I will not put forth mine hand against my lord; for he [is] the LORD’S anointed.
11 Moreover, my father, see, yea, see the skirt of thy robe in my hand: for in that I cut off the skirt of thy robe, and killed thee not, know thou and see that [there is] neither evil nor transgression in mine hand, and I have not sinned against thee; yet thou huntest my soul to take it.
12 The LORD judge between me and thee, and the LORD avenge me of thee: but mine hand shall not be upon thee.
13 As saith the proverb of the ancients, Wickedness proceedeth from the wicked: but mine hand shall not be upon thee.
14 After whom is the king of Israel come out? after whom dost thou pursue? after a dead dog, after a flea.
15 The LORD therefore be judge, and judge between me and thee, and see, and plead my cause, and deliver me out of thine hand.
16 And it came to pass, when David had made an end of speaking these words unto Saul, that Saul said, [Is] this thy voice, my son David? And Saul lifted up his voice, and wept.
17 And he said to David, Thou [art] more righteous than I: for thou hast rewarded me good, whereas I have rewarded thee evil.
18 And thou hast shewed this day how that thou hast dealt well with me: forasmuch as when the LORD had delivered me into thine hand, thou killedst me not.
19 For if a man find his enemy, will he let him go well away? wherefore the LORD reward thee good for that thou hast done unto me this day.
20 And now, behold, I know well that thou shalt surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel shall be established in thine hand.
21 Swear now therefore unto me by the LORD, that thou wilt not cut off my seed after me, and that thou wilt not destroy my name out of my father’s house.
22 And David sware unto Saul. And Saul went home; but David and his men gat them up unto the hold.
Summary of 1 Samuel Chapter 24
In this chapter, we see a significant encounter between David and Saul, highlighting themes of mercy, leadership, and divine providence. David has been fleeing from King Saul, who is intent on killing him out of jealousy and fear. The chapter unfolds with a dramatic confrontation in the wilderness, showcasing David’s moral integrity and respect for God’s anointed leader.
Key Events
- Saul’s Pursuit: Saul gathers 3,000 chosen men to hunt down David, who is hiding in the wilderness of Engedi.
- Saul’s Vulnerability: While pursuing David, Saul enters a cave to relieve himself, unaware that David and his men are hiding deeper within the same cave.
- David’s Opportunity: David’s men urge him to kill Saul, suggesting that this is the moment God has provided for David to take the throne.
- David’s Restraint: Instead of killing Saul, David secretly cuts off a corner of Saul’s robe, demonstrating his respect for Saul as the Lord’s anointed.
- David’s Conscience: After cutting the robe, David feels guilty for even having done that, showing his deep sense of morality and respect for God’s authority.
- David’s Revelation: David confronts Saul after he leaves the cave, revealing the piece of robe as evidence of his mercy and respect for Saul’s position.
- Saul’s Reaction: Saul acknowledges David’s righteousness and admits his wrongdoings, expressing remorse and recognizing David’s future as king.
- David’s Promise: David swears to Saul that he will not harm his descendants, showing his commitment to peace and integrity.
Thematic Analysis
- Mercy and Forgiveness: David’s choice to spare Saul’s life exemplifies mercy, even in a situation where he had every justification to retaliate. This act of compassion sets a powerful example of leadership.
- Divine Providence: The chapter emphasizes the belief that God is in control of the situation. David interprets the encounter as a sign of God’s will, reinforcing the idea that God’s timing and plan are paramount.
- Respect for Authority: David’s refusal to harm Saul, despite the king’s pursuit of him, illustrates a profound respect for God’s anointed leaders, regardless of their actions.
- Integrity and Morality: David’s internal struggle after cutting Saul’s robe highlights his strong moral compass. His guilt signifies the importance of maintaining integrity even in difficult circumstances.
- Conflict and Resolution: The chapter presents the tension between David and Saul, ultimately leading to a moment of reconciliation, which is a pivotal moment in their tumultuous relationship.
Character Analysis
- David: Portrayed as a man of principle and mercy, David’s actions reflect his deep faith and commitment to God’s will. He is shown as a wise leader who prioritizes righteousness over revenge.
- Saul: Saul is depicted as a conflicted character, torn between his jealousy and acknowledgment of David’s virtues. His admission of wrongdoing marks a moment of vulnerability and self-awareness.
Conclusion
1 Samuel Chapter 24 serves as a powerful narrative that explores the complexities of leadership, the importance of mercy, and the overarching theme of divine providence. The interactions between David and Saul not only advance the plot but also provide profound lessons on morality and respect for God’s chosen leaders.
