1 Samuel 9:1--31:13
Kish <07027> [Kish.]
[Cis. a Benjamite. or, the son of a man of Jemini. power. or, substance.]
young man <0970> [choice.]
shoulders <07926> [from his shoulders.]
hill country <02022> [mount.]
Shalisha <08031> [Shalisha.]
Shaalim <08171> [Shalim.]
Zuph <06689> [Zuph.]
becomes anxious <01672> [take thought.]
town <05892> [city.]
respected <03513> [an honourable.]
says <01696> [all that he saith.]
bring .................. take <0935> [what shall.]
bags ... used up <0235 03627> [spent in. Heb. gone out of, etc. there is not.]
We are not to suppose from this that the prophets took money to predict future events: Saul only refers to an invariable custom, that no man approached a superior without some present or another, however small in value. Dr. Pococke tells us of a present of fifty radishes! Other authors mention a flower, an orange, or similar trifles; and Mr. Bruce says, that one who wished to solicit a favour from him, presented him with about a score of dates! "I mention this trifling circumstance," says Mr. B. "to shew how essential to human and civil intercourse presents are considered to be in the East; whether it be dates, or whether it be diamonds, they are so much a part of their manners, that without them, an inferior will never be at peace in his own mind, or think that he has hold of his superior for protection. But superiors give no presents to their inferiors." Presents then are tokens of honour; not intended as offers of payment or enrichment.
[have we. Heb. is with us.]
happen to have .... hand <03027 04672> [I have here at hand. Heb. there is found in my hand.]
inquire <01875> [enquire.]
<07200> [a Seer.]
[Well said. Heb. Thy word is good.]
ascent .... town <04608 05892> [the hill to the city. Heb. in the ascent of the city. found.]
sacrifice <02077> [sacrifice. or, feast.]
high place <01116> [the high place.]
bless <01288> [he doth bless.]
time <03117> [this time. Heb. to-day.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
told Samuel <08050 0241 01540> [told Samuel in his ear. Heb. revealed the ear of Samuel.]
consecrate <04886> [thou shalt.]
people ....... people ........... looked ...... people <07200 05971> [looked upon.]
man <0376> [Behold.]
[reign over. Heb. restrain in.]
<07200> [the seer.]
The word {roaih} literally signifies one who sees; particularly preternatural sights. A seer and a prophet were the same in most cases; only with this difference, the seer was always a prophet, but the prophet was not always a seer. A seer seems to imply one who frequently met with and saw some symbolical representation of God. All prophets, true or false, profess to see God, (see Nu 24:4, 16. Jer 14:4;) and diviners, in their enthusiastic flights, boasted that they had those things exhibited to their sight which should come to pass.
tell <05046> [and will tell.]
three days <07969 03117> [three days ago. Heb. to-day three days.]
concerned <07760 03820> [set not.]
desire <02532> [on whom.]
Benjaminite <01145> [a Benjamite.]
family clan <04940> [my family.]
way <01697> [so to me. Heb. according to this word.]
head <07218> [in the chiefest.]
Give ......... gave <05414> [Bring.]
leg <07785> [the shoulder.]
Probably the shoulder was set before Saul, not because it was the best part, but because it was an emblem of the government to which he was now called. (See Isa 9:6.)
was kept <07604> [left. or, reserved.]
down <03381> [And when.]
roof <01406> [the top.]
Samuel ............................. Samuel <08050> [Samuel.]
Saul had no doubt slept there all night, as is usual in the East; and now, being the break of day, "Samuel called to Saul on the top of the house:" there was no calling him to the top of the house a second time; he was sleeping there, and Samuel called him up.
Get ............. got <06965> [Up.]
Tell ... servant <0559 05288> [Bid the servant.]
awhile <03117> [a while. Heb. to-day. that I may.]
container <06378> [a vial.]
kissed .... said <05401 0559> [kissed him.]
leader <05057> [captain.]
inheritance <05159> [his inheritance.]
Rachel's <07354> [Rachel's.]
Zelzah <06766> [Zelzah.]
donkeys .................. donkeys <0860> [The asses.]
concerned about <01697> [care. Heb. business.]
Tabor <08396> [Tabor.]
Bethel <01008> [Beth-el.]
three .................... three young goats ........ three <07969 01423> [three kids.]
give <07965 05414> [salute thee. Heb. ask thee of peace.]
Gibeah ... God <0430 01389> [hill of God.]
company <02256> [a company.]
harps <05035> [a psaltery.]
spirit <07307> [Spirit.]
different person <0376 0312> [another man.]
signs <0226> [let it be. Heb. it shall come to pass that, etc. signs.]
do ..... finds <04672 06213> [that thou do as occasion, etc. Heb. do for thee as thine hand shall find.]
God <0430> [God.]
Gilgal <01537> [to Gilgal.]
turned <07926> [back. Heb. shoulder. gave. Heb. turned. another heart.]
signs <0226> [and all those signs.]
The following history of Saul is given by the Afghans, a people generally supposed to be of Jewish origin: "In a war which raged between the children of Israel and the Amalekites, the latter being victorious, plundered the Jews, and obtained possession of the ark of the covenant. Considering this [as] the God of the Jews, they threw it into the fire, which did not affect it. They afterwards attempted to cleave it with axes, but without success: every individual who treated it with indignity, was punished for his temerity. They then placed it in their temple; but all their idols bowed to it. At length they fastened it upon a cow, which they turned loose in the wilderness. When the prophet Samuel arose, the children of Israel said to him, 'We have been totally subdued by the Amalekites, and have no king. Raise to us a king, that we may be enabled to contend for the glory of God.' Samuel said, 'In case you are led out to battle, are you determined to fight?' They answered, 'What has befallen us, that we should not fight against infidels? That nation has banished us from our country and children.' At this time the angel Gabriel descended, and delivering a wand, said, 'It is the command of God, that the person whose stature shall correspond with this wand, shall be king of Israel.' Melec T l£t was at that time a man of inferior condition, and performed the humble employment of feeding the goats and cows of others. One day, a cow under his charge was accidentally lost. Being disappointed in his searches, he was greatly distressed, and applied to Samuel saying, 'I have lost a cow, and I do not possess the means of satisfying the owner. Pray for me that I may be extricated from this difficulty.' Samuel perceiving that he was a man of lofty stature, asked his name. He answered, T l£t. Samuel then said, 'Measure T l£t with the wand which the angel Gabriel brought.' His stature was equal to it. Samuel then said, 'God has raised T l£t to be your king.' The children of Israel answered, 'We are greater than our king. We are men of dignity, and he is of inferior condition. How shall he be our king?' Samuel informed them, they should know that God had constituted T l£t king, by his restoring the ark of the covenant. He accordingly restored it, and they acknowledged him their sovereign." Asiatic Researches, vol. ii. p. 119, et seq.
arrived <0935> [they came.]
known <03045> [when all.]
one another <0376 07453> [one to another. Heb. a man to his neighbour. What is this.]
Saul <07586> [Is Saul.]
<06030> [of the same place. Heb. from thence. who is their.]
asked ........... replied <0559> [And he said.]
lost <0369> [no where.]
matter <01697> [matter.]
Lord <03068> [unto the Lord.]
said <0559> [Thus saith.]
today .................. said <03117 0559> [And ye have.]
tribes <07626> [by your tribes.]
tribes ....... tribe <07626> [caused.]
inquired <07592> [enquired.]
hidden <02244> [hid.]
When <01361> [he was higher.]
see ...... Lord <07200 03068> [See ye him.]
live ... king <02421 04428> [God save the king. Heb. Let the king live.]
Gibeah <01390> [Gibeah.]
hearts <03820> [whose hearts.]
men <01121> [children.]
bring .... gift <0935 04503> [brought him.]
nothing <02790> [he held his peace. or, he was as though he had been deaf.]
Nahash ................ Nahash <05176> [Nahash.]
In the Vulgate this chapter begins thus: {Et factum est quasi post mensem,} "And it came to pass about a month after;" which is also the reading of the principal copies of the Septuagint; and is also found in Josephus, though it appears to be of little authority.
Jabesh ....... Jabesh <03003> [Jabesh-gilead.]
Make <03772> [Make.]
<02063> [On this.]
gouge <05365> [thrust.]
humiliate <02781> [reproach.]
seven <07651> [Give us. Heb. Forbear us.]
Gibeah <01390> [to Gibeah.]
loudly <05375> [lifted up.]
behind ... oxen <0310 01241> [after the herd.]
people <05971> [What aileth.]
Spirit ... God <0430 07307> [Spirit of God.]
angry <0639> [his anger.]
took <03947> [he took.]
The sending the pieces of the oxen was an act similar to that of the Levite, Jud 19:29, where see the Note. An eminent Scotch writer describes the rites, incantations, and imprecations used prior to the fiery cross being circulated, to summon the rough warriors of ancient times to the service of their chief; and he alludes to this ancient custom, which in comparatively modern times, has been practised in Scotland; and proves that a similar punishment of death, or destruction of their houses, for disobeying the summons, was inflicted by the ancient Scandinavians, as recorded by Olaus Magnus, in his History of the Goths. This bears a striking similarity to the ancient custom of the Israelites. With the Highlanders, a goat was slain; with the Israelites, an ox. The exhibition of a cross, stained with the blood of the sacrificed animal, was the summons of the former, while part of the animal, was the mandate of the latter. Disobedience in one nation was punished with the death of themselves or oxen, and burning of their dwellings in the other.
cut <05408> [hewed.]
out ............................. out <03318> [Whosoever.]
terror <06343> [the fear.]
one <0259 0376> [with one consent. Heb. as one man.]
Bezek <0966> [Bezek.]
Israelites <01121> [the children.]
deliverance <08668> [help. or, deliverance.]
Tomorrow <04279> [To-morrow.]
next day <04283> [on the morrow.]
three <07969> [in three.]
morning <01242> [morning.]
struck ... down <05221> [slew.]
two <08147> [so that two.]
<0559> [Who is he.]
<0376> [There shall.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
<03212> [let us go.]
renew <02318> [renew.]
Lord's presence .......... Lord's presence <06440 03068> [before the Lord.]
offered up <02076> [sacrificed.]
very happy <08055 03966> [rejoiced greatly.]
done <08085> [Behold.]
given <04427> [have made.]
walks ..................... walked <01980> [walketh.]
old <02204> [I am old.]
sons <01121> [my sons.]
walks ..................... walked <01980> [I have walked.]
chosen king <04899> [his anointed.]
ox <07794> [whose ox.]
bribe <03724> [bribe. Heb. ransom. blind mine eyes. or, that I should hide mine eyes at him.]
return <07725> [I will.]
Lord <03068> [The Lord.]
chosen king <04899> [his anointed.]
found <04672> [ye have.]
<03027> [in my hand.]
Lord <03068> [It is the Lord.]
chose <06213> [advanced. or, made.]
confront <08199> [reason.]
just <06666> [righteous acts. Heb. righteousnesses or benefits.]
ancestors <01> [to. Heb. with.]
Jacob <03290> [Jacob.]
cried <02199> [cried.]
sent Moses <07971 04872> [sent Moses.]
led <03318> [brought.]
settled <03427> [made them.]
forgot <07911> [forgat.]
gave <04376> [he sold.]
Philistines <06430> [of the Philistines.]
hand .............. hand ........ hand <03027> [into the.]
cried <02199> [And they.]
Baals <01168> [Baalim.]
deliver <05337> [deliver.]
Jerub-Baal <03378> [Jerubbaal.]
Barak <0917> [Bedan.]
Bedan, whose name occurs no where else as a judge of Israel, Bp. Patrick and others suppose to be a contraction of {ben Dan,} "the son of Dan;" by which they suppose Samson is meant, as the Targum reads. The LXX., Syriac, and Arabic, however, instead of Bedan read Barak; and the two latter versions, instead of Samuel have Samson. These readings are adopted by Houbigant, and appear to be genuine; for it is not probable that Samuel would enumerate himself.
Jephthah <03316> [Jephthah.]
Samuel <08050> [Samuel.]
Nahash <05176> [Nahash.]
King ................ king .............. king <04428> [Nay.]
Lord <03068> [when the Lord.]
king ............. Lord ...... king <04428 03068> [behold.]
chosen ...... asked <0977 07592> [whom ye.]
asked <07592> [have desired.]
fear <03372> [If ye will.]
says <06310> [commandment. Heb. mouth. continue. Heb. be after.]
obey <08085> [But if ye.]
says .............. king <06310 01> [against.]
positions <03320> [stand.]
wheat <02406> [Is it.]
In northern latitudes, thunder and rain are far from being un-common during harvest. But rain is hardly ever known in Palestine during that season, which commences about the end of June, or beginning of July. This fact is abundantly confirmed by modern travellers, and is demonstrative to every unprejudiced reader of the Holy Scriptures, that the thunder and rain, which at Samuel's invocation, was sent at this season of the year, was a miraculous interposition of the power of God; for we read in ver. 16, it was a "great thing which the Lord will do." Thus were the Israelites warned of their sin in having asked a king, and of the omnipotence of that God, whose gracious promises they virtually neglected by this act.
call <07121> [I will call.]
sin <07451> [your wickedness.]
made ... thunder <05414 06963> [sent thunder.]
afraid <03372> [feared.]
Pray ............ servants <06419 05650> [Pray for thy.]
afraid <03372 06213> [Fear not.]
turn <05493> [turn not.]
empty ..... profit ........ empty <08414 03276> [vain things.]
profit <03276> [cannot profit.]
Lord ................ Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
great <01419> [for his great.]
uphold <02974> [it hath.]
far be it from me <02486> [God forbid.]
ceasing <02308> [in ceasing. Heb. from ceasing. I will teach.]
good <02896> [the good.]
fear ... Lord <03068 03372> [fear the Lord.]
faithfully <0571> [in truth.]
look <07200> [consider.]
great <01431> [how great things. or, what a great thing, etc.]
evil <07489> [But if.]
king <04428> [ye and.]
[A.M. 2911. B.C. 1093. An. Ex. Is. 398.]
reign ... ruled <04427 01121> [reigned one year. Heb. the son of one year in his reigning.]
This verse is variously interpreted; but probably it only means, according to the Hebrew idiom, that, during the first year nothing remarkable occurred; but after two years, (or in the second year of his reign,) the subsequent events took place.
selected <0977> [chose.]
Micmash <04363> [Michmash.]
Michmash was situated east of Bethaven, or Bethel; and Eusebius says it was in his time a considerable place, about nine miles from Jerusalem, towards Rama.
Gibeah <01390> [in Gibeah.]
outpost <05333> [the garrison.]
Geba <01387> [Geba. or, the hill.]
[Gaba.]
alerted <08628> [blew.]
repulsive <0887> [was had in abomination. Heb. did stink.]
Gilgal <01537> [to Gilgal.]
3,000 chariots 6,000 <07970 0505 07393> [thirty thousand chariots.]
The Philistines had no doubt collected troops in this emergency, from all the surrounding nation; but the number of chariots is immensely large beyond any example, and wholly disproportioned to the number of their cavalry. It is probable, therefore, that for {sheloshim aileph,} "thirty thousand," we should read {shelosh aileph,} "three thousand," with the Syriac and Arabic.
sand <02344> [as the sand.]
Beth Aven <01007> [Beth-aven.]
<06887> [in a strait.]
caves <04631> [in caves.]
Hebrews <05680> [the Hebrews.]
Gad <01410> [Gad.]
him ... terrified <0310 02729> [followed him trembling. Heb. trembled after him.]
waited <03176> [tarried.]
Then ... offered <05927> [he offered.]
Saul <07586> [Saul.]
greet <01288> [salute him. Heb. bless him.]
done <06213> [What hast.]
Micmash <04363> [Michmash.]
thought .... Philistines <0559 06430> [said I.]
sought .... favor <06440 02470> [made supplication unto. Heb. intreated the face of, etc. I forced.]
foolish <05528> [Thou hast done.]
obeyed <08104> [hast not kept.]
kingdom <04467> [But now.]
<03068> [the Lord.]
leader .... people <05057 05971> [captain over.]
Samuel <08050> [Samuel.]
The LXX. have, "Samuel arose and went away from Gilgal, and the remainder of the people went up along with the men of war after Samuel from Gilgal to Gibeah of Benjamin." This is probably the true reading; for it does not appear that Samuel went to Gibeah, which was Saul's usual residence; and the Hebrew copyist, as Dr. Wall observes, seems to have missed a line, and added to the sentence concerning Samuel, that which ended the sentence concerning Saul. One MS. instead of Samuel, in the beginning of the sentence, reads Saul.
remained <04672> [present. Heb. found. about six.]
Gibeah <01387> [Gibeah. Heb. Gebah.]
three groups ... band <07969 07218> [in three companies.]
Ophrah <06084> [Ophrah.]
Shual <07777> [Shual.]
Beth Horon <01032> [Beth-horon.]
Zeboim <06650> [Zeboim.]
blacksmith <02796> [there was no.]
It is probable that the Philistines in the former wars had carried away all the smiths from Israel.
charged two-thirds of a shekel <06477> [a file. Heb. a file with mouths. sharpen. Heb. set.]
sword <02719> [there was neither.]
garrison <04673> [garrison. or, standing camp.]
pass <04569> [passage.]
day <03117> [A.M. 2917. B.C. 1087. An. Ex. Is. 404. it came to pass upon a day. or, there was a day. Jonathan.]
let ... father know <05046 01> [he told not.]
outskirts <07097> [in the uttermost.]
pomegranate <07416> [a pomegranate.]
The word {rimmon,} in Arabic {romman,} whence the Portuguese {romaa,} denotes the pomegranate, both tree and fruit; called by naturalists {malus punica} or {malo-granatum.} It is, according to the Linnean system, a genus of the {icosandria monogynia} class of plants; and is a low tree, growing very common in Palestine, and other parts of the East. It has several small angular boughs, very thick and bushy, covered with a reddish bark, and some of them armed with sharp thorns. They are garnished with small, narrow, spear-shaped leaves, like those of the myrtle, but not so sharp, of a green colour, inclining to red. Its blossoms are large, beautiful, of an elegant red colour, inclining to purple, composed of several stalks resembling a rose, in the hollow of the cup: this cup is oblong, hard, purple, having a figure somewhat like that of a bell. It is chiefly valued for its fruit, which is exceedingly beautiful, of the form and size of a large apple, with a reddish rind, and red within; being full of small kernels, with red grains, replenished with a generous liquor, of which, Sir John Chardin informs us, they still make considerable quantities of wine in the East, particularly in Persia. But as the pomegranate tree, from its low growth, is but little adapted for pitching a tent under, it is probable that Rimmon here is the name of the rock mentioned in Jud 20:45.
Ahijah <0281> [Ahiah.]
[called Ahimelech. I-chabod's.]
carrying <05375> [wearing.]
<04569> [the passages.]
cliff <08127> [forefront. Heb. tooth.]
[Bozez. i.e., shining. Seneh. i.e., a bush or tooth.]
<03212> [Come.]
This action of Jonathan's was totally contrary to the laws of war; no military operation should be undertaken without the knowledge and command of the general. But it is highly probable, that this gallant man was led to undertake the hazardous enterprise by an immediate divine impulse; and by the same influence was kept from informing the soldiers, and even from consulting his father, who might have opposed his design.
uncircumcised men <06189> [uncircumcised.]
Lord .......... Lord <03068> [it may be.]
prevent <04622> [for there is no restraint.]
Where there is a promise of defense and support, the weakest, in the face of the strongest enemy, may rely upon it with the utmost confidence.
Do ....... mind ........... way <06213 03824> [Do all.]
go over <05674> [we will pass.]
say <0559> [they.]
Stay put <01826> [Tarry. Heb. Be still.]
sign <0226> [this shall be a sign.]
holes <02356> [out of the holes.]
up ....... teach ............... up <05927 03045> [Come up to us.]
Meaning, that they would cause them to repent of their audacity. This was the favourable sign which Jonathan had requested.
up ..................... up behind <05927 0310> [Come up after me.]
up <05927> [climbed up.]
down <05307> [fell.]
area .... half ... acre <04618 07704 02677> [an half acre of land. or, half a furrow of an acre of land.]
The original is obscure and variously understood; but it is probably a proverbial expression for a small space.
fear overwhelmed ............................... fear <02731> [there was trembling.]
bands <07843> [the spoilers.]
trembled .... ground <07264 0776> [the earth quaked.]
fear overwhelmed ............................... fear ..... God <02731 0430> [very great trembling. Heb. trembling of God.]
God will in some way or other direct the steps of those who acknowledge him in all their ways, and seek unto him for direction with full purpose of heart. Sometimes we find most comfort in that which is least our own doing, and into which we have been led by the unexpected, but well observed, turns of Providence.
melt <04127> [melted away.]
<01986> [beating down.]
near <05066> [Bring hither.]
The Septuagint reads [Prosagage to ephoud, hoti autos ere to ephoud en te hemera ekeine enopiou Israel.] "Bring hither the ephod; for he bore the ephod on that day before Israel:" which Houbigant and others think is the true reading. Finding that his son Jonathan and his armour-bearer were absent, Saul wished to consult the high-priest; but the tumult increasing, he says to him, "Withdraw thine hand:" i.e., desist form consulting the ephod on the present occasion, and immediately hastened to make the best use he could of this astonishing victory.
<0727> [For the ark.]
panic <01995> [noise. or, tumult. Withdraw.]
marched <02199 0935> [assembled themselves. Heb. were cried together. every man's.]
Hebrews <05680> [the Hebrews.]
Probably such as they held in bondage, or who were their servants. Instead of (h„ivrim,} "the Hebrews," the LXX. evidently read {haƒvdim,} for they have [Loi douloi,] "the slaves;" but this reading is not countenanced by any other version, nor by any MS.
hidden ..... hill country <02244 02022> [hid themselves.]
battle <04421> [the battle.]
The LXX. and Vulgate add here, [kai pas ho laos en meta Saoul hos deka chiliades andron,] {Et erant cum Saul, quasi decem millia virorum.} "And [all the people who were, LXX.] there were with Saul about ten thousand men;" but this is supported by no other authority.
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
Beth Aven <01007> [Beth-aven.]
Cursed <0779> [Cursed.]
vengeance <05358> [I may be.]
army <0776> [all they.]
honey <01706> [honey.]
This was wild honey, which to this day abounds in Judea; and bursting from the comb, runs down the hollow trees, rocks, etc.
army ................... army <05971> [the people.]
eyes <05869> [his eyes.]
Cursed <0779> [Cursed.]
tired <05774> [faint. or, weary.]
father <01> [My father.]
See <07200> [see.]
It is well known, that hunger and fatigue produce faintness and dim the sight; and on taking a little food, this affection is immediately removed.
greater <07235> [had there.]
Micmash <04363> [from Michmash.]
The distance, Calmet states to be three or four leagues.
Aijalon <0357> [Aijalon.]
<05860> [flew.]
army ..................... army <05971> [the people.]
The people having abstained from food the whole of the day, and being now faint through hunger and fatigue, they flew upon the cattle, and not taking time to bleed them properly, they eagerly devoured the flesh with the blood, directly contrary to the law--another bad effect of Saul's rash adjuration.
ate <0398> [did eat.]
covenant <0898> [transgressed. or, dealt treacherously.]
<03027> [with him. Heb. in his hand.]
built .............. built <01129> [built.]
It is probable that Saul converted the great stone, on which the cattle had been slaughtered, into an altar, on which sacrifices were offered, before the people attempted to proceed any further. This we are told was the first he had built. Samuel, as a prophet and priest, had hitherto erected the altars, but Saul seems to have thought he had sufficient authority to erect one himself, without the prophet, as he had once offered sacrifice without him.
first <02490> [the same, etc. Heb. that altar he began to build unto the]
Lord.
go down <03381> [Let us go.]
leave <07604> [let us not leave.]
said ........................... replied .......... priest said <0559 03548> [Then said the priest.]
It is evident that Ahiah, who had before been interrupted by Saul's impatience, doubted of the propriety of pursuing the Philistines that night, and properly counselled them to enquire of the Lord.
down <03381> [Shall I go.]
answer <06030> [he answered.]
come <05066> [Draw ye near.]
leaders <06438> [chief. Heb. corners.]
Do .... think <06213 05869> [Do what seemeth.]
Saul ............................................... Saul <07586> [Therefore.]
Both the Septuagint and Vulgate add much to this verse: [Kai eipe Saoul, Kyrie Lo Theos Israel, ti Loti ouk apekrithes to doulo sou semeron? ei en emoi e en lonathan to Luio mou he adikia, Kyrie ho Theos Israel dos delous kai ean tade eipe, dos de to lao sou Israel, dos de osioteta, k.t.l.] {Et dixit Saul ad Dominum Deum Israel; Domine Deus Israel da indicium: quid est qu•d non responderis servo tuo hodie? Si in me, aut in Jonatha filio meo est iniquitas h‘c, da ostensionem: aut si h‘c iniquitas est in populo tuo, da sanctitatem, etc.} "And Saul said [to the Lord God of Israel, Vulg.] Lord God of Israel [give a sign, Vulg.] Why is it that thou has not answered thy servant to-day? If the iniquity be in me, or in my son Jonathan, [O Lord God of Israel, LXX.] make it manifest; and if thou say thus, give to thy people Israel, give mercy," etc., [but Vulg. Or, if this iniquity be in thy people, give sanctification," etc.]
<03051 08549> [Give a perfect lot. or, Shew the innocent.]
Saul ............................................... Saul <07586> [And Saul.]
exonerated <03318> [escaped. Heb. went forth.]
Tell ...... done ... told <05046 06213> [Tell me.]
taste <02938> [I did but.]
God <0430> [God.]
die <04191> [thou shalt.]
acted <06213> [who hath.]
hair <08185> [there shall not.]
The people judged rightly, that the guilt was contracted by Saul, and not by Jonathan; and therefore they rescued him from the hands of his rash and severe father.
acted <06213> [he hath.]
army .................................................... army <05971> [the people.]
Saul <07586> [Saul.]
fought <03898> [fought.]
Ammonites <05983> [Ammon.]
Zobah <06678> [Zobah.]
fought bravely <02428 06213> [gathered an host. or, wrought mightily. smote.]
Jonathan <03129> [Jonathan.]
older one ... named <01067 08034> [name of the first-born.]
name ............ name .... general <08269 08034> [the name of the captain.]
Abner <074> [Abner. Heb. Abiner.]
Kish <07027> [Kish.]
Saul .... Saul <07586> [when Saul.]
Lord ................. Lord <03068> [A.M. 2925. B.C. 1079. An. Ex. Is. 412. The Lord.]
listen <08085> [hearken.]
carefully <06485> [I remember.]
Amalekites <06002> [Amalek.]
<03212> [Now go.]
The Amalekites, a people of Arabia Petr‘a, who inhabited a tract of country on the frontiers of Egypt and Canaan, had acted with great cruelty towards the Israelites on their coming out of Egypt, and God then purposed that Amalek, as a nation, should be blotted out from under heaven; but it had been spared till it had filled up the measure of its iniquities, and now this purpose is carried into effect by Saul, upwards of 400 years afterwards! Nothing could justify such an exterminating decree but the absolute authority of God; and this was given: all the reasons of it we do not know; but this we know well, the Judge of all the earth doeth right.
Destroy <02763> [utterly destroy.]
death <04191> [slay.]
ox sheep <07794 07716> [ox and sheep.]
Telaim <02923> [Telaim.]
[Telem. two.]
ambush <07378> [laid wait. or, fought.]
Kenites ..................................... Kenites <07017> [the Kenites.]
leave .................................. withdrew <03212 05493> [Go, depart.]
<06213> [ye shewed.]
struck down <05221> [smote.]
Havilah <02341> [Havilah.]
This Havilah was probably situated in Arabia, and the district of Chaulon may mark the spot. It seems different from that encompassed by the river Pison, one of the rivers of Eden.
Shur <07793> [Shur.]
Agag <090> [Agag.]
Agag's <02763> [utterly.]
best <04315> [the best.]
fatlings <04932> [the fatlings. or, the second sort.]
regret ..... made <05162 04427> [repenteth me.]
turned <07725> [turned.]
done <06965> [hath not performed.]
angry <02734> [it grieved.]
cried <02199> [he cried.]
Carmel <03760> [Carmel.]
setting up <05324> [he set him.]
monument <03027> [a place. Yad.]
Literally as the LXX. render [cheira,] a hand; probably because the trophy or monument of victory was in the shape of a large hand, the emblem of power, erected on a pillar. These memorial pillars were anciently much in use; and the figure of a hand, by its emblematical meaning, was well adapted to preserve the remembrance of a victory. Niebuhr, speaking of the Mesjed Ali, or Mosque of Ali, says that, "at the top of the dome, where one generally sees on the Turkish mosques a crescent, or only a pole, there is here a hand stretched out, to represent that of Ali." Another writer informs us, that at the Alhamra, or red palace of the Moorish kings in Grenada, "on the key-stone of the outward arch [of the present principal entrance] is sculptured the figure of an arm, the symbol of strength and dominion."
bless <01288> [Blessed.]
done <06965> [I have performed.]
sound ......... sound <06963> [What meaneth.]
army <05971> [for.]
sacrifice <02076> [to.]
minute <07503> [Stay.]
insignificant <06996> [When thou.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
sinful <02400> [the sinners.]
destroyed <03615> [they be consumed. Heb. they consume them.]
rushed .... plunder <05860 07998> [fly upon.]
done .... wrong <07451 06213> [didst evil.]
obeyed <08085> [Yea.]
brought <0935> [have brought.]
army <05971> [the people.]
Lord <03068> [Hath the Lord.]
obedience ... obedience <08085> [obey.]
rebellion <04805> [rebellion.]
divination <07081> [witchcraft. Heb. divination.]
presumption <06484> [stubbornness.]
rejected ......... rejected <03988> [thou hast rejected.]
sinned <02398> [I have sinned.]
afraid <03372> [I feared.]
followed <08085> [obeyed.]
forgive <05375> [pardon.]
back <07725> [I will not.]
rejected ........... rejected <03988> [for thou.]
Lord <03068> [The Lord.]
given <05414> [hath given.]
colleagues <07453> [a neighbour.]
Preeminent One <05331> [Strength. or, Eternity, or, Victory.]
word <08266> [will not lie.]
honor ..... elders <03513 02205> [honour me now.]
worship <07812> [that I may worship.]
said ..... Agag ...... Agag ...... thinking ... himself <0559 090> [Agag said.]
sword <02719> [As thy sword.]
Samuel ..................... Samuel <08050> [Samuel.]
It has been a matter of wonder to many, how Samuel could thus slay a captive prince, even in the presence of Saul, who from motives of clemency had spared him; but it should be remarked, that what Samuel did here, he did in his magisterial capacity; and that Agag had been a cruel tyrant, and therefore was cut off for his merciless cruelties. Farther, it is not likely that he did it by his own sword, but by that of the executioner. What kings, magistrates, and generals do, in an official way, by their subjects, servants, or soldiers, they are said to do themselves:--{qui facit per alterum, facit per se.}
hacked ... to pieces <08158> [hewed.]
Gibeah <01390> [Gibeah.]
Samuel ....... Samuel <08050> [Samuel.]
Samuel ....... Samuel .... mourn <08050 056> [Samuel mourned.]
regretted <05162> [repented.]
mourn <056> [A.M. 2941. B.C. 1063. An. Ex. Is. 428. How long.]
rejected <03988> [seeing.]
horn ... olive oil <08081 07161> [horn with oil.]
Jesse <03448> [Jesse.]
<03212> [How can I go.]
Take ... heifer <03947 01241> [Take an heifer.]
For the prudent management of the affair, and to avoid suspicion, Samuel was directed to go to Bethlehem to sacrifice, as he probably did from time to time in many different places; and the answer which he was instructed to return was strictly true though he did not tell the principal design of his coming; for though no man in any circumstances should tell a lie, yet, in all circumstances, he is not bound to tell the whole truth, though he must tell nothing but the truth, and so tell that truth that the hearer shall not believe a lie by it.
<03027> [with thee. Heb. in thine hand.]
come <0935> [I am come.]
Then invite Jesse <03448 07121> [call Jesse.]
show you what <03045> [and I will shew.]
anoint <04886> [anoint.]
afraid <02729> [trembled.]
<07125> [coming. Heb. meeting. Comest.]
come ....... Consecrate .... come ......... consecrated <06942 0935> [sanctify yourselves.]
Eliab <0446> [Eliab.]
[Elihu. Surely.]
by ... appearance <05027 04758> [Look not.]
men ... People <0120> [seeth not.]
view ........ look on ........ looks at <07200> [looketh.]
appearance <05869> [outward appearance. Heb. eyes. on the heart.]
Abinadab <041> [Abinadab.]
Shammah <08048> [Shammah.]
[Shimeah.]
[Shimma.]
seven <07651> [seven.]
still <07604> [There remaineth.]
turn <05437> [down. Heb. round.]
ruddy <0132> [ruddy.]
attractive eyes <03303 05869> [of a beautiful countenance. Heb. fair of eyes.]
Lord <03068> [And the Lord.]
anoint <04886> [anoint him.]
anointed <04886> [anointed.]
Spirit <07307> [the Spirit.]
Spirit ............. spirit <07307> [the Spirit.]
Spirit ............ evil spirit <07307 07451> [evil spirit.]
The evil spirit was either sent immediately from the Lord, or permitted to come; but whether this was a diabolic possession, or a mere mental malady, is not agreed: it seems to have partaken of both. That Saul had fallen into a deep melancholy, there is little doubt; and that an evil spirit might work more effectually on such a state of mind, there can be little question. His malady appears to have been of a mixed kind, natural and diabolical: there is too much of apparent nature in it to permit us to believe it was all spiritual; and there is too much of apparently supernatural influence, to suffer us to believe it was all natural.
tormented <01204> [troubled. or, terrified.]
before .... look <06440 01245> [before thee.]
play ................ play <05059> [play.]
warrior <01368> [a mighty.]
articulate <0995> [and prudent.]
articulate <01697> [matters. or, speech. a comely.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
sheep <06629> [with the sheep.]
donkey .... bread <02543 03899> [an ass laden.]
{Chamor lechem,} literally, "an ass of bread," rendered by the LXX. [gomor arton,] a {gomor} of bread; meaning, probably, not an animal, but a vessel containing a certain measure of bread.
stood before <06440 05975> [stood before him.]
liked .... great <0157 03966> [loved him.]
spirit .............................. spirit <07307> [the evil spirit.]
Saul ............... Saul <07586> [Saul.]
gathered ....... assembled <0622> [gathered.]
Socoh .......... Socoh <07755> [Shochoh.]
[Socoh.]
[Shoco.]
[Shocho. Azekah.]
Ephes Dammim <0658> [Ephes-dammim. or, the coast of Dammim.]
[Pas-dammim.]
valley <06010> [the valley.]
arranged ... battle lines <06186 04421> [set the battle in array. Heb. ranged the battle.]
Goliath <01555> [Goliath.]
Gath <01661> [of Gath.]
tall <01363> [whose height.]
seven feet <0520 08337> [six cubits.]
According to Bp. Cumberland's calculation, the height of Goliath was about eleven feet ten inches; but Parkhurst estimating the ordinary cubit at seventeen inches and a half, calculates that he was nine feet six inches high. Few instances can be produced of men who can be compared with him. Pliny says, "The tallest man that hath been seen in our days was one name Gabara, who, in the days of Claudius, the late Emperor, was brought out of Arabia: he was nine feet nine inches." Josephus mentions a Jew, named Eleazar, whom Vitellius sent to Rome, who was seven cubits, or ten feet two inches high. Becanus saw a man near ten feet, and a woman that was full ten feet. And, to mention no more, a man of the name of John Middleton, born at Hale, near Warrington, in Lancashire, in the reign of James the First, was more than nine feet high. Dr. Plott, in his history of Staffordshire, says, that "his hand, from the carpus to the end of the middle finger, was seventeen inches, his palms eight inches and a half broad, and his whole height was nine feet three inches; wanting but six inches of the height of Goliath of Gath."
wearing <03847> [armed. Heb. clothed.]
bronze ......... bronze javelin <05178 03591> [target of brass. or, gorget.]
<06086> [the staff.]
servants ... Saul <07586 05650> [servants to Saul.]
serve <05647> [and serve us.]
defy <02778> [I defy.]
Give .... man <05414 0376> [give me.]
upset <02865> [dismayed.]
David <01732> [David.]
<0376> [Ephrathite.]
son ............. eight sons <01121 08083> [eight sons.]
names <08034> [the names.]
Shammah <08048> [Shammah.]
[Shimeah.]
youngest <06996> [the youngest.]
back <07725> [returned.]
forty days <03117 0705> [forty days.]
Take ... brothers .................... brothers <03947 0251> [Take now.]
roasted grain .... ten <07039 06235> [parched corn.]
take <0935> [carry.]
cheese <02461> [cheeses. Heb. cheeses of milk.]
officer <0505> [their thousand. Heb. a thousand. look.]
valley <06010> [the valley.]
Dr. Richardson says, that in about twenty minutes, in an easterly direction, form the cave of St. John, (which is about two hours or six miles, in a westerly direction, from Jerusalem,) they came to the valley of Elah; which position seems to agree with that of Shochoh and Azekah. He describes it as "a small valley, and the place of the encampment is pointed out where it narrows into a broad, deep ravine; part of it was in crop, and part of it was under the plough, which was drawn by a couple of oxen. A small stream, which had shrunk almost under its stony bed, passes through it from east to west, from which we are informed that David chose out five smooth stones, and hasted and ran to meet the haughty champion of Gath. A well of water under the bank, with a few olive trees above, on the north side of the valley, are said to mark the spot of the shepherd's triumph over his boasting antagonist. Saul and his men probably occupied the side of the valley which is nearest to Jerusalem, on which the ground is higher and more rugged than on the other side."
entrusted ... flock <06629 05203> [left the sheep.]
camp <04570> [trench. or, place of the carriage.]
battle lines <04634> [fight. or, battle array, or place of fight.]
cargo ....... supply <03627> [his carriage. Heb. the vessels from upon him. saluted his brethren. Heb. asked his brethren of peace.]
<0428> [according.]
presence <06440> [him. Heb. his face.]
very <03966> [sore.]
king <04428> [the king.]
Israel ................. Israel ............................... exempt ...... Israel <03478 02670> [free in Israel.]
humiliation <02781> [reproach.]
uncircumcised <06189> [uncircumcised.]
defies <02778> [defy.]
done <06213> [So shall it.]
Eliab ........ he ... angry <0639 0446> [Eliab's anger.]
entrust <05203> [with.]
familiar <03045> [I know.]
question ....... same answer <01697> [manner. Heb. word.]
overheard ....... called <03947> [sent for him. Heb. took him.]
The preceding twenty verses, from the 12th to the 31st inclusive, the 41st, and from the 54th to the end of this chapter, with the five first verses and the 9th, 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th, and 19th, of ch. 18, are all wanting in the Vatican copy of the LXX.; and they are supposed by Dr. Kennicott, and others, to be an interpolation. But, as Bp. Horsley observes, it appears, from many circumstances of the story, that David's combat with Goliath was many years prior to Saul's madness, and David's introduction to him as a musician. In the first place, David was quite a youth when he engaged with Goliath, (ver. 33, 42:) when introduced to Saul he was of full age, (ch. 16:18.) Again, this combat was his first appearance in public life, and his first military exploit, (ver. 36, 38, 39:) when introduced as a musician, he was a man of established character, and a man of war (ch. 16:18.) Now the just conclusion is, that the last ten verses of ch. 16 have been misplaced; their true place being between the ninth and tenth verses of ch. 18. Let them be removed there, and the whole apparent disorder will be removed.
anyone <0120> [Let.]
servant <05650> [thy.]
able <03201> [Thou art not.]
[for thou are but.]
sheep <07716> [lamb. or, kid.]
strike ... down ... rescue .................... strike .... kill <05221 05337 04191> [smote him.]
uncircumcised <06189> [this.]
defied <02778> [seeing.]
Lord ............................ Lord <03068> [The Lord.]
<03212> [Go.]
clothed David ..... fighting attire ............ put <03847 01732 04055> [armed David with his armour. Heb. clothed David with his clothes.]
removed <05493> [put them off.]
staff <04731> [staff.]
stream <05158> [brook. or, valley. bag. Heb. vessel.]
despised <0959> [disdained.]
boy <05288> [a youth.]
dog <03611> [Am.]
cursed <07043> [cursed.]
give <03212 05414> [Come to me.]
give <05414> [I will give.]
Parallel instances of vaunting occur in some writers of a more recent date:--The conspirators against the emperor Maximinus having slain him, his son, and several of his best friends, threw out their bodies to be devoured by dogs and the fowls of the air. This custom appears to have been frequently threatened; and, however shocking to human feelings, was often carried into effect.
coming ............. coming <0935> [Thou comest.]
name <08034> [in the name.]
defied <02778> [defied.]
Lord <03068> [will the Lord.]
deliver ..... hand <05462 03027> [deliver thee. Heb. shut thee up.]
off ... head <05493 07218> [take thine.]
corpses <06297> [carcases.]
land ..... land <0776> [all the earth.]
sword ....... saves <03467 02719> [saveth not.]
battle <04421> [the battle.]
him ... David quickly <01732 04116> [David hasted.]
striking <05221> [smote.]
David prevailed .................... David <01732 02388> [So David prevailed.]
The tradition of the combat between David and Goliath, in which the latter was killed, is preserved among the Arabs; for he is mentioned in the Koran, where he is called Galut or Jalut. The Arabs also call the dynasty of the Philistine kings, who reigned in Palestine when the Hebrews came there, Galutiah, or Jalutiah. Achmed Al Fassi says, "Those kings were as well known by the name of Jalaut, as the ancient kings of Egypt by that of Pharaoh. David killed the Jalaut who reigned in his time, and entirely rooted out the Philistines, the rest of whom fled into Africa, and from them descended the Brebers or Berbers, who inhabit the coast of Barbary." It is remarkable that the Berbers themselves should acknowledge their descent from the Philistines. "The name Goliath, which they pronounce Sghi…lud, is very common among the Brebers, and the history of the champion of the Philistines is very well known to the Moors. When children quarrel, and the bigger one challenges the smaller to fight the latter answers, 'Who will fight with you? {Enta men ulid Sgi…lud.} You are of the race of Golaith.' The Jews who dwell among them, on the mountains, all call them Philistines."
sword <02719> [but there was.]
sword <02719> [his sword.]
cut off <03772> [cut off.]
ran away <05127> [fled.]
Israel <03478 0582> [the men of Israel.]
valley <01516> [valley.]
looted <08155> [they spoiled.]
took ... head <03947 07218> [took the head.]
son <01121> [whose son.]
head <07218> [the head.]
son ........... son <01121> [Whose son.]
To account for the apparent inconsistency of Saul not knowing David, see the Note at the end of ver. 31.
son ........... son <01121> [I am the son.]
Jonathan ......... friendship Jonathan ........... life <03083 05315> [the soul of Jonathan.]
The modesty, piety, and courage of David were so congenial to the character of the amiable Jonathan, that they attracted his most cordial esteem and affection; so that the most intimate friendship subsisted between them from that time, and they loved each other with pure hearts fervently. Their friendship could not be affected by the common vicissitudes of life; and it exemplifies by fact what the ancients have written on the subject; [Ten philian isoteta einai, kai mian psychen ton philon heteron auton.] "Friendship is an entire sameness, and one soul: a friend is another self."
friendship ... loved .......... life <0157 05315> [loved him.]
retained ..... day <03947 03117> [took him.]
made ... covenant <03772 01285> [made a covenant.]
took off ... robe <06584 04598> [stripped himself.]
Presents of clothes or rich robes, as tokens of respect or friendship, are frequent in the East.
achieved <07919> [behaved. or, prospered.]
achieved <07919> [wisely.]
men ... war <04421 0582> [the men of war.]
Philistine <06430> [Philistine. or, Philistines. the women.]
instruments <07991> [instruments of music. Heb. three stringed instruments.]
The original {shalishim,} is rendered by the Vulgate {sistris.} The {sistrum} was an ancient Egyptian instrument made of brass, with three, and sometimes more brass rods across; which, being loose in their holes, made a jingling noise when shaken.
sang <06030> [answered.]
Saul <07586> [Saul.]
statement <01697> [the saying.]
[displeased him. Heb. was evil in his eyes.]
kingdom <04410> [and what.]
David <05770 01732> [eyed David.]
evil spirit <07307 07451> [the evil spirit.]
prophesied <05012> [and he prophesied.]
{Wyyithnabbai,} rather, "and he pretended to prophesy; for the verb is in {Hithpa‰l,} the signification of which conjugation is not only reflex action, but also affectation of the action: Jer 29:26, 27. The meaning seems to be, that Saul, influenced by the evil spirit, feigned to be prophesying, the better to conceal his murderous intentions, and to render David unsuspicious.
playing <05059> [played.]
spear <02595> [and there was.]
{Wehachanith beyad Sh„ool,} rather, "and the javelin was in the hand of Saul;" for the javelin or spear was the emblem of regal authority; and kings had it always in their hand, as may be seen represented on ancient monuments. In ancient times, says Justin, kings used a spear instead of a sceptre.
threw ... spear <02904 02595> [cast the javelin.]
David ...... David <01732> [And David.]
feared <03372> [afraid.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
departed <05493> [departed.]
removed <05493> [removed.]
out <03318> [he went out.]
Saul was sensible that the Lord was departed from him; while he perceived, with evident sorrow of heart, that the Lord had given David peculiar wisdom, and that he was with him to prosper all his undertakings. This increased the disquietude of his malevolent mind, and his dread of David as a prevailing rival: he therefore removed him from his presence. This impolitic step, however, served the more to ingratiate David with the people, by affording him the opportunity of leading them forth to victory over their enemies.
achieved <07919> [behaved. or, prospered.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
successful <07919> [wisely.]
Israel <03478> [all Israel.]
leading ... out <03318> [he went.]
give <05414> [her will I give.]
brave warrior <01121> [valiant. Heb. a son of valour. the Lord's.]
hand ........ hand <03027> [Let not mine.]
<02416> [Who am I.]
Adriel <05741> [Adriel.]
Meholah <04259> [Meholathite.]
loved David <0157 01732> [loved David.]
[Ge 29:18,20 34:3 Jud 16:4,15 2Sa 13:1 1Ki 11:1,2 Ho 3:2]
[pleased him. Heb. was right in his eyes.]
snare <04170> [a snare.]
hand <03027> [the hand.]
Today <03117> [this day.]
instructed <06680> [commanded.]
servants .............. servants <05650> [servants.]
insignificant <07043> [a light.]
poor .... man <0376 07326> [a poor man.]
lightly-esteemed <07034> [and lightly.]
<01697> [On this manner. Heb. According to these words.]
price .... bride <04119> [dowry.]
hundred <03967> [but an hundred.]
That is, Thou shalt slay one hundred Philistines, and thou shalt produce their foreskins as a proof, not only that thou hast killed one hundred men, but that these are of the uncircumcised Philistines.
foreskins <06190> [foreskins.]
avenged <05358> [to be avenged.]
thinking <02803> [thought.]
time ..... expired <03117> [the days.]
expired <04390> [expired. Heb. fulfilled.]
<0582> [his men.]
struck down <05221> [slew.]
men ........ hundred ... men <03967 0376> [two hundred men.]
The Septuagint has only [ ,] one hundred men; and as Saul covenanted for a hundred, as David himself says, (2 Sa 3:14,) that he espoused Michal for a hundred, it is very probable that this is the true reading.
more <03254> [yet the.]
Saul ....... him Saul ........ David <07586 01732> [Saul became.]
leaders <08269> [the princes.]
Of this war we know no more than that David, whose military skill was greater, was more successful in it, than all the other officers of Saul.
Then ........ march out ........ so <03318> [went forth.]
did .... achieved <07919> [behaved himself.]
esteem <03365> [set by. Heb. precious.]
Saul .............. Saul's <07586> [And Saul.]
Saul's enmity now burst forth, in the avowed purpose of putting David to death; and nothing less than the especial interposition of Providence could have saved David's life, when every officer about the king's person, and every soldier, had positive orders to dispatch him.
<02654> [delighted.]
Jonathan <03083> [Jonathan.]
When I find ... what <07200 04100> [what I see.]
spoke .... behalf .................................. beneficial <01696 02896> [spake good.]
sin .... servant ....... sinned <02398 05650> [sin against.]
actions <04639> [because his works.]
risked <05315 07760> [put his life.]
struck <05221> [slew.]
<06213> [wrought.]
sin ... innocent <05355 02398> [sin against innocent.]
reason <02600> [without a cause.]
took an oath <07650> [sware.]
[he shalt not.]
formerly <0865> [in times past. Heb. yesterday, third day.]
David <01732> [David.]
[him. Heb. his face]
tried <01245> [sought.]
nail <06362> [he slipped.]
escaped <04422> [and escaped.]
sent messengers <04397 07971> [sent messengers.]
guard ..... kill ....................... dead <08104 04191> [to watch him.]
Michal <04324> [Michal.]
lowered David <03381 01732> [let David.]
household idol <08655> [an image. Heb. teraphim.]
quilt <03523> [a pillow.]
Rather, "the net-work of goat's hair at its (the Teraphim's) pillow;" for the {kevir,} (whence the Chaldee and Syriac {kavreetho,} a honey-comb, from its net-like form), seems to have been a kind of mosquito-net, which, says Dr. Shaw, is "a close curtain of gauze, used all over the East, by people of fashion, to keep out the flies." That they had such anciently cannot be doubted. Thus when Judith had beheaded Holofernes in his bed, (ch. 13:9, 15) "she pulled down the canopy (or the mosquito net, [ ,] from [ ,] a gnat, or mosquito, whence our word canopy) wherein he did lie in his drunkenness, from the pillars."
said <0559> [she said.]
Bring ... up <05927> [Bring him.]
The eastern beds consist merely of two thick cotton quilts, one of which, folded double, serves as a mattress, the other as a covering. Such seems to have been the bed of David, which could easily have been carried, with himself in it, to the presence of Saul.
messengers <04397> [And when.]
It is highly probable that David, when supposed to be sick, was thought to be hid in the harem or chamber of Michal. "The harems," says De La Motraye, "are sanctuaries, as sacred and inviolable, for persons pursed by justice for any crime, debt, etc., as the Roman Catholic churches in Italy, Spain, Portugal, etc." Thus we find, that to effect his purpose, Saul sent messengers to Michal, but they treated her harem with too much respect to enter it at first; but being authorised by Saul, they entered even into her chamber; and during the delay occasioned by respect for the privacy of Michal, David escaped.
deceived <07411> [Why hast.]
enemy <0341> [mine enemy.]
Michal .................. Michal <04324> [And Michal.]
said ..................... replied ..... said <0559> [He said.]
kill <04191> [why should.]
Samuel ................. Samuel <08050> [to Samuel.]
So ... sent messengers ........................... messengers <07971 04397> [sent messengers.]
saw <07200> [when they.]
sent ... messengers ........ sent messengers <04397 07971> [sent messengers.]
prophesied ............. prophesied <05012> [prophesied also.]
Spirit <07307> [the Spirit.]
came <0935> [until he came.]
stripped <06584> [stripped.]
lay <05307> [lay. Heb. fell.]
Saul <07586> [Is Saul.]
fled <01272> [fled.]
done <06213> [What have.]
By no means <02486> [God forbid.]
father ........ making ... aware ....... father <01540 01> [shew it me. Heb. uncover mine ear.]
Taking an oath <07650> [sware.]
But as surely as <0199> [but truly.]
you <05315> [as thy soul.]
step <06587> [but a step.]
I <05315> [Whatsoever, etc. or, Say what is thy mind, and I will do, etc.]
replied .... Tell <0559> [desireth. Heb. speaketh, or thinketh.]
new moon <02320> [the new moon.]
The months of the Hebrews were lunar months, and they reckoned from one new moon to another: and, as their feasts, particularly the passover, were reckoned according to this, they were very scrupulous in observing the first appearance of each new moon. On these new moons, they offered sacrifices, and feasted together: but the gathering together of all the families of a tribe on such occasions seems to have taken place only once in the year.
hide <05641> [that I may.]
Bethlehem <01035> [Beth-lehem.]
sacrifice <02077> [sacrifice. or, feast.]
<02896> [It is well.]
harm <07451> [evil.]
loyal <02617 06213> [deal kindly.]
made ..................... taking <0935> [thou hast.]
<03426> [if there be.]
made ..................... taking <0935> [why shouldest.]
tell <05046> [then would.]
answers ... harshly <06030 07186> [answer thee.]
Lord <03068> [O Lord.]
This verse is evidently deficient. The LXX. have [kyrios ho Theos Israel oiden,] "The Lord God of Israel doth know;" the Syraic and Arabic, "The Lord God of Israel is witness;" either of which makes good sense. But two of Dr. Kennicott's MSS. supply the word {chai,} "liveth;" and the text reads thus: "As the Lord God of Israel liveth, when I have sounded my father,--if there be good unto David, and I then send not unto thee," etc.; which is a still better sense.
feel out <02713> [sounded. Heb. searched.]
know <01540> [shew it thee. Heb. uncover thine ear.]
Lord do ............................. Lord <03068 06213> [The Lord do.]
father ......... Lord .............................. Lord .......... father <03068 01> [the Lord be.]
father ............................................... father <01> [he hath been with my father.]
loyalty <02617> [the kindness.]
cut off ............. cut off <03772> [thou shalt.]
<03772> [made. Heb. cut.]
<03068> [Let the Lord.]
loved ...... loved <0160 0157> [because he loved him. or, by his love toward him. for he loved.]
new moon <02320> [new moon.]
missed <06485> [and thou shalt.]
Among the forms of salutation and compliment used in Persia, one was, "according to my mode of notation in italics, {J i sh ma khali bud pish y r n,} signifying, Thy place or seat was empty among thy friends. This phrase, or the greater part of it, was frequently addressed to myself when coming into a circle of Persian acquaintances, after an absence of several days or weeks. It reminded me of a passage in the First book of Samuel, (ch. 20:18.) And thou shalt be missed, because thy seat will be empty. And again, David's place was empty." Sir W. Ouseley's Travels, vol i. preface, p.16.
missed <06485> [empty. Heb. missed.]
quickly <03966> [quickly. or, diligently. Heb. greatly. hide thyself.]
day .... started <04639 03117> [when the business. Heb. in the day of the business. Ezel. or, that sheweth the way.]
<01697> [no. Heb. not any thing. as the.]
matter <01697> [the matter.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
king <04428> [the king.]
usual <06471> [as at other times.]
unclean ...... unclean <02889> [he is not clean.]
come <0935> [Wherefore.]
son ...... son <01121> [the son.]
brother ...................... brothers <0251> [my brother.]
Saul <07586> [Saul's.]
chosen ... son <01121 0977> [Thou, etc. or, Thou perverse rebel. Heb. Son of perverse rebellion.]
disgrace ..... disgrace <01322> [and unto the.]
This reflection on the mother of Jonathan, by the passionate monarch, reflects more dishonour on himself than on his brave and noble minded son. Mungo Park gives an instance of the prevalence of the same principles in Africa; for he says, "Maternal affection is every where conspicuous among the Africans, and creates a correspondent return of tenderness in the child. 'Strike me,' said my attendant, 'but do not curse my mother.' I found the same sentiment to prevail universally in all parts of Africa." King Saul, unable to villify Jonathan to his own satisfaction by personal reproaches, outstepped the ordinary abuse of his day, and proceeded to that which was designed to produce unusual vexation, and vented the bitterness of his mind by maligning the character of his own wife and Jonathan's mother.
send <07971> [send.]
son ................................ dead <01121> [shall surely die. Heb. is the son of death.]
death <04191> [Wherefore.]
done <06213> [what hath.]
[cast.]
[whereby.]
enraged <02750> [in fierce.]
upset <06087> [he was grieved.]
meet <04150> [at the time.]
Run .............. ran <07323> [Run.]
beyond <05674> [beyond him. Heb. to pass over him.]
equipment <03627> [artillery. Heb. instruments.]
Rather weapons, as the word {kelim} also denotes; and here means the bow, quiver, and arrows. This is probably the only place in our language in which the word artillery is not applied to cannon or ordinance, but simply to weapons of war.
servant <05288> [his lad. Heb. the lad that was his.]
knelt <05307> [and fell.]
kissed <05401> [and they kissed.]
David ............................ especially David <01732 01431> [David exceeded.]
peace <03212 07965> [Go in peace.]
sworn <07650> [forasmuch as. or, the Lord be witness of that which, etc.]
got up <06965> [And he arose.]
The separation of two such faithful friends was equally grievous to them both, but David's case was the more deplorable: for when Jonathan was returning to his family and friends, David was leaving all his comforts, even those of God's sanctuary, and therefore his grief exceeded Jonathan's; or, perhaps it was because his temper was more tender and his passions stronger. They referred each other to the covenant of friendship that was between them, both of them being comforted thereby in this very mournful separation:--"We have sworn both of us in the name of the Lord, for ourselves and our heirs, that we and they will be faithful and kind to each other from generation to generation."
Nob <05011> [Nob.]
Nob appears to have been a sacerdotal city of Benjamin or Ephraim. Jerome says, that in his time the ruins of it might be seen not far from Diospolis or Lydda. But the Rabbins assert that Jerusalem might be seen from this town. The tabernacle resided some time at Nob; and after it was destroyed, it was removed to Gibeon; "and the day of Nob and Gibeon were fifty-seven years." Maimonides in Bethhabbechirah, c. 1.
Ahimelech ...... Ahimelech <0288> [to Ahimelech.]
[called Ahiah.]
[called also Abiathar.]
shaking with fear <02729> [afraid.]
king <04428> [The king.]
The whole of this is a gross falsehood; and which was attended with the most fatal consequences. It is well known that from all antiquity it was held no crime to tell a lie in order to save life. Thus Diphilon [Hypo lambano to pseudas epi sotevea legomenon, ouden peripoieisthai duscheres.] "I hold it right to tell a lie for safety: nothing should be avoided to save life." A heathen may say or sing thus: but no Christian can act thus and save his soul, though he may save his life.
disposal <03027> [under thine.]
found <04672> [present. Heb. found.]
bread ...... holy bread <03899 06944> [hallowed bread.]
soldiers <05288> [if the young.]
equipment ..................... equipment <03627> [the vessels.]
journey <01870> [in a manner.]
equipment ................ holy today ..... equipment <06942 03117 03627> [yea, though it were sanctified this day in the vessel. or, especially when this day there is other sanctified in the vessel.]
So .... gave ... holy <05414 06944> [gave him.]
bread ...... bread ................... hot bread <02527 03899> [hot bread.]
detained <06113> [detained.]
Doeg <01673> [Doeg.]
<07462> [herdmen.]
sword <02719> [The sword.]
valley <06010> [the valley.]
wrapped <03874> [behold.]
behind <0310> [behind.]
fled <01272> [fled.]
Achish <0397> [Achish. or, Abimelech.]
Gath <01661> [Gath.]
Jerome says there was a large town called Gath, in the way from Eleutheropolis to Gaza; and Eusebius speaks of another Gath, five miles from Eleutheropolis, towards Lydda, (and consequently different from that mentioned by Jerome;) and also of another Gath, between Jamnia and Antipatris. It appears to have been the extreme boundary of the Philistine territory in one direction, as Ekron was on the other, (ch. 7:14; 17:52,) and lay near Mareshah, (2 Ch 11:8. Mic 1:14,) which agrees pretty well with the position assigned it by Jerome. But Reland and Dr. Wells agree with Eusebius; and the authors of the Universal History (b. i. c. 7) place it about six miles form Jamnia, fourteen south of Joppa, and thirty-two west of Jerusalem.
servants <05650> [the servants.]
king <04428> [the king.]
thought <07760> [laid up.]
very <03966> [sore.]
altered <08138> [changed.]
making marks <08427> [scrabbled. or, made marks.]
madman <07696> [is mad. or, playeth the madman.]
David <01732> [David.]
cave <04631> [the cave.]
Adullam <05725> [Adullam.]
Adullam was a city of Judah; and, according to Eusebius, ten miles (Jerome says eleven) eastward from Eleutheropolis.
in trouble <04689> [distress.]
[was in debt. Heb. had a creditor.]
discontented <04751> [discontented. Heb. bitter of soul.]
leader <08269> [a captain.]
Mizpah <04708> [Mizpeh.]
king <04428> [the king.]
father <01> [Let my father.]
know <03045> [till I know.]
stronghold <04686> [in the hold.]
[Gad.]
[depart.]
David <01732> [David departed.]
tamarisk <0815> [tree. or, grove in a high place. spear.]
Benjaminites ... Jesse's son <03448 01121> [the son of Jesse.]
giving <05414> [give.]
commanders ... officers <08269> [captains.]
informs ...... son ....... son ............. informs ...... son <01540 01121> [sheweth me. Heb. uncovereth mine ear.]
son ....... son .................. son <01121> [that my son.]
Doeg <01673> [Doeg.]
He is also said to be "the chiefest of the herdsmen that belonged to Saul;" and the Septuagint intimates that he was over the mules of Saul. He may have been what we call the king's equerry or groom.
Ahimelech <0288> [Ahimelech.]
Ahitub <0285> [Ahitub.]
inquired <07592> [he enquired.]
provisions <06720> [him victuals.]
Then .... arranged <07971 07121> [sent to call.]
son <01121> [thou son.]
lord <0113> [Here I am. Heb. Behold me.]
conspired <07194> [Why have.]
faithful <0539> [And who.]
king .............. king's <04428> [the king's.]
<05493> [goeth.]
today <03117> [Did I then.]
He seems to intimate, that his enquiring now for David was no new thing, having often done so before, without ever being informed it was wrong in itself or displeasing to the king.
[the servant.]
whole or ... part <01419 06996> [less or more. Heb. little or great.]
surely die <04191> [Thou shalt.]
father's <01> [thou, and.]
messengers <07323> [footmen. or, guard. Heb. runners.]
kill ... priests ............................... priests <03548 04191> [slay the priests.]
refused ... harm <014 07971> [would not.]
Doeg .......... Doeg <01673> [Doeg.]
strike ........... struck down <06293> [he fell.]
eighty-five <08084> [fourscore.]
The LXX. read, [tria kosious kai pente andras,] "three hundred and five men;" and Josephus, "three hundred and eighty-five men." Probably the eighty-five were priests and the three hundred the families of the priests; three hundred and eighty-five being the whole population of Nob.
linen ephod <0906 0646> [a linen ephod.]
Nob <05011> [Nob.]
men <0376> [men.]
<06310> [with the edge.]
This is one of the worst acts of Saul's life: his malice was implacable, and his wrath cruel; and there is no motive of justice or policy by which such a barbarous massacre can be justified.
one <0259> [one.]
But one .......... escaped <04422> [escaped.]
guilty <05437> [I have occasioned.]
seeks ..... seeking <01245> [he that seeketh.]
secure <04931> [but with me.]
Keilah <07084> [Keilah.]
Keilah was a city of Judah, situated, according to Eusebius, eight miles from Eleutheropolis, towards Hebron. Sozomen says that the prophet Habakkuk's tomb was shewn there.
looting ... threshing floors <08154 01637> [rob the.]
asked <07592> [enquired.]
In what way David made this enquiry we are not told; but it was probably by means of Abiathar; and therefore it would seem, that with Houbigant, we should read the sixth verse immediately after the first.--This adventure was truly noble and patriotic. Had not David loved his country, and been above all motives of private and personal revenge, he would have rejoiced in this invasion of Judea, as producing a strong diversion in his favour, and embroiling his inveterate enemy. In most cases, a man with David's wrongs would have joined with the enemies of his country, and avenged himself on the author of his calamities; but he thinks of nothing but succouring Keilah, and using his power and influence in behalf of his brethren.
<03373> [Behold.]
again <03254> [yet again.]
give <05414> [for I will.]
Abiathar <054> [when Abiathar.]
ephod <0646> [an ephod.]
God ... delivered <0430 05234> [A.M. 2943. B.C. 1061. An. Ex. Is. 430. God hath.]
delivered him ........ boxed <05462> [he is shut.]
David <01732> [David.]
Bring <05066> [Bring.]
destroy ... city <05892 07843> [destroy the city.]
Lord ........... Lord <03068> [And the Lord.]
deliver .............. deliver <05462> [deliver. Heb. shut up.]
deliver .............. deliver <05462> [They will.]
six hundred <03967 08337> [six hundred.]
hill country <02022> [a mountain.]
desert ......... desert <04057> [the wilderness.]
Ziph is mentioned in Joshua with Carmel and Maon, near which it seems to have been situated; and as we have mention of Carmel and Maon in the history of David, as adjoining to Ziph, it cannot be doubted that by the Ziph, in the wilderness of which David now lay, and where was the hill of Hachilah, is to be understood Ziph near Carmel and Maon.
Saul <07586> [Saul.]
God <0430> [but God.]
encouraged him <02388> [strengthened.]
afraid .... hand <03372 03027> [Fear not.]
find <04672> [shall not.]
rule <04427> [thou shalt be.]
second <04932> [I shall be.]
Saul ..................... Saul <07586> [that also Saul.]
Ziphites <02130> [the Ziphites.]
Hakilah <02444> [Hachilah.]
Calmet states, that Hachilah was a mountain about ten miles south of Jericho, where Jonathan Maccab‘us built the castle of Massada, west of the Dead Sea, and not far from En-gedi.
south <03225> [on the south. Heb. on the right hand. Jeshimon. or, the wilderness.]
Eusebius places Jeshimon ten miles south of Jericho, near the Dead Sea; which agrees extremely well with the position of Hachilah, as stated by Calmet.
discretion <0185> [all the desire.]
Delivering him <05462> [our part.]
Determine precisely ........ seen <07272 07200> [haunt is. Heb. foot shall be.]
precisely <03045> [take knowledge.]
find <02664> [I will search.]
thousands <0505> [the thousands.]
desert <04057> [the wilderness.]
Maon, from which the adjoining mountainous district derived its name, was city in the most southern parts of the tribe of Judah, and a neighbouring town to Carmel. Hence Nabal (ch. 25:2) is described as a man of Maon, whose possessions were in Carmel; and though he might dwell generally in Maon, yet he is styled Nabal the Carmelite, from the place where his estate lay. Calmet supposes it to be the city Mino‹s, which Eusebius places in the vicinity of Gaza; and the Moenoemi Castrum, which the Theodosian code places near Beersheba.
Maon <04584> [Maon.]
south <03225> [the south.]
rock <05553> [into a rock. or, from the rock.]
David ............. David ... hurrying .............. David <02648 01732> [David made haste.]
<03212> [away.]
came <0935> [there came.]
Philistines <06430> [the Philistines.]
raided <06584> [invaded. Heb. spread themselves upon.]
Sela Hammahlekoth <05555> [Sela-hammahlekoth. that is, the rock of divisions.]
Because, says the Targum, "the heart of the king was divided to go hither and thither." Here Saul was obliged to separate himself from David, in order to go and oppose the invading Philistines; which deliverance of David was of such a nature as made the Divine interposition fully visible.
The district around En-gedi, near the western coast of the Dead Sea, is reported by travellers to be a mountainous territory, filled with caverns; and consequently, proper for David in his present circumstances. Dr. Lightfoot thinks this was the wilderness of Judah, in which David was when he penned the 63rd Psalm, which breathes as much pious and devout affection as almost any of his Psalms; for in all places and in all conditions he still kept up his communion with God.--If Christians knew their privileges better, and acted up thereto, there would be less murmuring at the dark dispensations of Divine Providence.
Saul <07586> [when Saul.]
pursuing <0310> [following. Heb. after. it was told.]
desert <04057> [the wilderness.]
Saul took <03947 07586> [Saul took.]
<03212> [and went.]
rocks <06697> [the rocks.]
sheepfolds <01448> [the sheepcotes.]
Caves in the rocks, in which it is still common for shepherds and their flocks to lodge. Dr. Pococke observes, "Beyond the valley [of Tekoa,] there is a very large grotto, which the Arabs call El-Maamah, a hiding place: the high rocks on each side of the valley are almost perpendicular; and the way to the grotto is by a terrace formed in the rock, which is very narrow. There are two entrances into it; we went by the farthest, which leads by a narrow passage into a very large grotto, the rock being supported by natural pillars; the top of it rises in several places like domes; the grotto is perfectly dry. There is a tradition, that the people of the country, to the number of 30,000, retired into this grotto, to avoid a bad air. This place is so strong, that one would imagine it to be one of the strong holds of En-gedi, to which David and his men fled from Saul: and possibly it may be that very cave in which he cut off Saul's skirt; for David and his men might, with good ease, lie hid there and not be seen by him." Travels, vol. ii. P. 1. p. 41.
Saul <07586> [and Saul.]
relieve <05526> [to cover.]
David <01732> [David.]
<0582> [the men.]
give <05414> [I will deliver.]
Saul's robe <04598 07586> [Saul's robe. Heb. the robe which was Saul's.]
David's ... bothered <03820 01732> [David's heart.]
keep me far away from <03068 02486> [the Lord forbid.]
restrained <08156> [stayed. Heb. cut off.]
allow <05414> [suffered.]
lord <0113> [My lord.]
David ........................ David kneeled <01732 06915> [David stooped.]
told .... kill .......... said <0559 02026> [bade me.]
Lord ........................................ Lord's <03068> [the Lord's.]
father <01> [my father.]
evil <07451> [neither evil.]
waiting <06658> [thou huntest.]
Lord judge .......... Lord <08199 03068> [Lord judge.]
hand <03027> [but mine hand.]
evil <07562> [Wickedness.]
king <04428> [the king.]
dead dog ... single <04191 03611 0259> [a dead dog.]
single flea <0259 06550> [a flea.]
arbiter <01781> [be judge.]
arbitrate <07378> [plead.]
judge ............ deliver <08199> [deliver. Heb. judge.]
voice ........ loudly <06963> [Is this.]
Saul Saul .......... Then Saul <07586 05375> [Saul lifted.]
innocent <06662> [Thou art.]
treated ........ tried <01580> [thou hast.]
Lord <03068> [Lord.]
delivered ..... hand <05462 03027> [delivered me. Heb. shut me up.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
realize <03045> [I know well.]
swear <07650> [Swear.]
not ....... or destroy <0518 08045> [that thou.]
David .............. David <01732 0582> [David and.]
stronghold <04686> [the hold.]
Samuel <08050> [A.M. 2944. B.C. 1060. An. Ex. Is 431. Samuel.]
mourned <05594> [lamented.]
[in this house.]
desert <04057> [the wilderness.]
Maon <04584> [Maon.]
business .... Carmel ......................... Carmel <04639 03760> [possessions were. or, business was. Carmel.]
Not the famous mount Carmel, in the north of Canaan, and in the tribe of Asher; but a city, on a mountain of the same name, in the south of Judah, which seems to have given name to the surrounding territory. Eusebius and Jerome inform us, that there was in their time a town called Carmelia, ten miles east from Hebron, where the Romans kept a garrison, whose position well agrees with this Carmel.
man .......... man <0376> [man.]
three thousand ..... thousand <0505 07969> [three thousand.]
shearing <01494> [shearing.]
This was a very ancient custom, and appears to have been always attended with festivity. The ancient Romans, however, used to pluck off the wool from the sheep's backs; and hence a fleece was called {vellus,} a {vellendo,} from plucking it off. Pliny says, that in his time sheep were not shorn every where, but in some places the wool was still plucked off.
Carmel ......................... Carmel <03760> [Carmel.]
wise <02896> [good.]
harsh <07186> [was churlish.]
<03614> [and he was.]
{Wehoo calibbee,} literally, "and he was a Calebite;" but as the word {cailev} signifies a dog, the Septuagint has understood it as implying a man of canine disposition, and translated it, [kai anthropov kunikos,] "and he was a doggish man." It is understood in the same way by the Syriac and Arabic.
shearing <01494> [did shear.]
give ...... name <07592 08034> [greet him, etc. Heb. ask him in my name of peace.]
brother <02416> [liveth.]
Peace ....... Peace <07965> [Peace be both.]
shepherds <07462> [thy shepherds.]
In those times, and at the present day, wandering Arabs, under their several chiefs, think that they have a right to exact contributions of provisions, etc., wherever they come. But David, though he lived in the wilderness like the Arab emirs, had not adopted their manners: one of them, at the head of 600 men, would have demanded, from time to time, some provision or present from Nabal's servants, for permitting them to feed at quiet; and would have driven them away from the watering place upon any dislike. David had done nothing of this kind; but had protected them against those who would.
insulted <03637> [we hurt. Heb. we shamed.]
time .... holiday <03117 02896> [a good day.]
son <01121> [thy son.]
paused <05117> [ceased. Heb. rested. or, became quiet.]
David's ..... David <01732> [Who is David.]
<07231> [there be.]
take <03947> [Shall I then.]
meat <02878> [flesh. Heb. slaughter. give it.]
know <03045> [whom.]
came <0935> [came.]
strap ........ strapped ........ strapped <02296> [Gird ye.]
David ........ strap ........ strapped ...... David ... strapped .......... David <01732 02296> [David also.]
hundred ........ hundred <03967> [two hundred.]
screamed <05860> [railed on them. Heb. flew upon them.]
very good <02896 03966> [very good.]
insult <03637> [hurt. Heb. shamed.]
wall <02346> [a wall.]
disaster <07451> [evil.]
wicked person <01100 01121> [a son of Belial.]
tells <01696> [that a man.]
quickly <04116> [made haste.]
took ... hundred .................. hundred ....... hundred <03947 03967> [took two.]
The Eastern bread is generally both thin and small; and answers to our cakes.
two containers <05035 08147> [two bottles.]
That is, two goatskins' full.
five ... sheep five <06629 02568> [five sheep.]
Not one sheep to one hundred men.
bunches of raisins <06778> [clusters. Heb. lumps. Raisins dried in the sun.]
lumps .... figs ... loaded <01690 07760> [cakes of figs.]
Figs cured and then pressed together. Now all this provision was a matter of little worth; and had it been granted in the first instance, it would have perfectly satisfied David, and secured his good offices.
Go <05674> [Go.]
tell <05046> [But.]
Riding <07392> [rode.]
down ............. down <03381> [she came down.]
David was coming down mount Paran; Abigail was coming down from Carmel.
vain <08267> [Surely.]
from <07725> [he hath requited.]
severely <03541 03254> [So and more.]
Nothing can justify this conduct of David, which was rash, unjust, and cruel in the extreme. David himself condemns it, and thanks God for being prevented from executing this evil. (ver. 32-34.)
leave <07604> [if I leave.]
male <08366> [any that pisseth, etc.]
This seems to have been a proverbial expression among the Israelites; and may with the utmost propriety be read "any male."
down <03381> [lighted.]
threw <05307> [fell.]
Falling <05307> [fell.]
lord ...... guilt <0113 05771> [Upon.]
female servant ............. servant <0519> [let thine.]
<0241> [audience. Heb. ears.]
attention <03820> [regard. Heb. lay it to his heart.]
wicked man <01100 0376> [man of Belial.]
Nabal ................. foolish <05037> [Nabal. that is, fool.]
surely .... Lord ........ live ..... Lord <03068 02416> [as the Lord liveth.]
lives <05315> [and as thy.]
Lord ............ Lord .... kept <03068 04513> [the Lord hath.]
shedding .... taking matters <0935 03467> [from.]
taking matters ..... hands <03467 03027> [avenging thyself. Heb. saving thyself.]
enemies <0341> [now let.]
present <01293> [blessing. or, present.]
follow <01980> [follow. Heb. walk at the feet of.]
forgive <05375> [forgive.]
Lord .................. Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
fights <03898> [fighteth.]
evil ... found <07451 04672> [evil hath.]
wrapped <06887> [bound.]
The metaphors in this verse are derived from the consideration, that things of value are collected together, and often tied up in bundles, like sheaves of corn, to prevent their being scattered and lost, and that whatever is put into a sling is not intended to be preserved, but to be thrown away.
Lord <03068> [with the Lord.]
sling away <07049> [sling out.]
from ... sling's <08432 07050> [as out of the middle of a sling. Heb. in the midst of the bow of a sling.]
<02896> [according.]
overwhelmed <06330> [grief. Heb. staggering, or, stumbling.]
taken matters <03467> [avenged.]
remember <02142> [remember.]
David overlooks the rich and seasonable present of Abigail, though pressed with hunger and wearied with travel; but her advice, which disarmed his rage, and calmed his revenge, draws forth these high and affectionate gratulations. These were his joyful and glorious trophies; not over his enemies, but over himself.
Praised .......... rewarded <01288> [blessed.]
prevented <03607> [which hast.]
taking matters <03467> [avenging.]
prevented <04513> [kept me back.]
so quickly <04116> [hasted.]
remained <03498> [there had.]
Go <05927> [Go up.]
responded <05375> [accepted.]
banquet <04960> [a feast.]
good <02896> [merry.]
told .... nothing <05046 01697> [she told him.]
told ..... matters <05046 01697> [had told him.]
stroke <03820> [his heart.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
Praised <01288> [Blessed.]
vindicated <07378> [pleaded.]
kept ... servant <05650 02820> [kept his servant.]
repaid <07725> [hath returned.]
asked ...... wife <03947 0802> [to take her.]
It is probable that David had heard that Saul, to cut off his pretensions to the throne, had married Michal to Phalti; and this justified him in taking Abigail, it not being then unlawful for a man to have several wives. This conduct of David's corresponds with the manner in which the Oriental princes generally form their matrimonial alliances. "The king of Abyssinia," says Mr. Bruce, "sends an officer to the house where the lady lives, who announces to her that it is the king's pleasure she should remove instantly to the palace. She then dresses herself in the best manner, and immediately obeys. Thenceforward he assigns her an apartment in the palace, and gives her a house elsewhere in any part she chooses."
David ........... David ... sent <01732 07971> [David sent.]
female servant <0519> [thine.]
wash <07364> [to wash.]
Abigail <026> [Abigail.]
[after her. Heb. at her feet.]
Jezreel <03157> [Jezreel.]
two <08147> [both.]
wives <0802> [his wives.]
Saul <07586> [But Saul.]
Rather, "For Saul," etc., as the particle [VÆ’v,] {wav,} frequently signifies; this being the cause why David took another wife.
Michal <04324> [Michal.]
Paltiel <06406> [Phalti.]
[Phaltiel. Gallim.]
This town appears to have been situated in the tribe of Benjamin, as it is mentioned in Isa 10:30, with Michmash, Geba, etc.
Ziphites <02130> [Ziphites.]
David <01732> [Doth not.]
Saul arose <06965 07586> [Saul arose.]
three thousand <0505 07969> [three thousand.]
Hakilah <02444> [Hachilah.]
Abner <074> [Abner.]
entrenchment <04570> [trench. or, midst of his carriages.]
The word {maÂgal} never signifies a ditch or rampart, but a chariot or waggon way. Nor does it seem to denote a ring of carriages, as Buxtorf and others interpret the word; for it is not probable that Saul would encumber his army with baggage in so rapid a pursuit, nor that so mountainous a country was practicable for waggons. It appears simply to mean here, the circular encampment (from {agal,} "round") which these troops formed, in the midst of which, as being the place of honour, Saul reposed. An Arab camp, D'Arvieux informs us, is always circular, when the disposition of the ground will permit, the prince being in the middle, and the troops at a respectful distance around him. Add to which, their lances are fixed near them in the ground all the day long, ready for action.
Hittite <02850> [Hittite.]
Abishai .................. Abishai <052> [to Abishai.]
Zeruiah <06870> [Zeruiah.]
down .............. down <03381> [Who will go.]
asleep <03463> [sleeping.]
God <0430> [God.]
delivered <05462> [delivered. Heb. shut up.]
necessary <08138> [the second time.]
extend <07971> [who can stretch.]
Lord lives ... Lord <02416 03068> [the Lord liveth.]
day <03117> [his day.]
down <03381> [he shall descend.]
extending <07971> [that I should.]
David <01732> [So David.]
deep sleep <08639> [a deep sleep.]
top <07218> [the top.]
David, by retiring to a place of safety before he called to Abner, seems to have manifested more distrust of Saul than he had done on a former occasion. Yet he desired that Saul and all Israel should be informed of his conduct at this time. Abner and his soldiers, by neglecting to guard Saul when he slept, had exposed his life, and merited to be treated as his enemies, though he confided in them as friends; for, although their sound sleep was undoubtedly supernatural, yet there might be a neglect of placing sentinels, arising from contempt of David's small company. Saul also deemed David his enemy, though he had before spared and protected his life.
came <0935> [there came.]
[worthy to die. Heb. the sons of death.]
Lord ............ Lord's <03068> [Lord's.]
voice ....... voice .......... voice <06963> [Is this thy.]
lord <0113> [Wherefore.]
done <06213> [what have I.]
lord <0113> [let my lord.]
incited <05496> [stirred.]
take delight <07306> [accept. Heb. smell.]
cursed <0779> [cursed.]
driven ... away <01644> [they have driven.]
united <05596> [abiding. Heb. cleaving. the inheritance.]
blood <01818> [let not my.]
king <04428> [the king.]
flea .... one <0259 06550> [a flea.]
{Parosh,} (in Arabic {borghooth,} Syriac, {poorthano,}) the well known little contemptible and troublesome insect, the flea, seems to be so called from its agility in leaping and skipping, from {para,} "free," and {raash,} "to leap, bound." David, by comparing himself to this insect, seems to import, that while it would cost Saul much pains to catch him, he would obtain but very little advantage from it.
partridge <07124> [a partridge.]
{Korai} certainly denotes the partridge, which is called in Arabic, {kir„a.} It seems to be so called from the cry or {cur} which it utters when calling its young.
sinned <02398> [I have sinned.]
harm <07489> [I will no.]
life <05315> [my soul.]
<07725> [render.]
willing ... extend <014 07971> [I would not.]
life ......... life <05315> [as thy life.]
deliver <05337> [let him deliver.]
rewarded <01288> [Blessed.]
without question ... successful <03201> [prevail.]
David ........ David ......... David <01732> [So David.]
David <01732> [A.M. 2946. B.C. 1058. An. Ex. Is. 433. And David.]
swept <05595> [I shall.]
This was a rash conclusion: God had caused him to be anointed king of Israel, and promised his accession to the throne, and had so often interposed in his behalf, that he was authorised to believe the very reverse.
swept <05595> [perish. Heb. be consumed. there is nothing.]
land <0776> [into the land.]
David <01732> [David.]
This measure of David's, in uniting himself to the enemies of his God and people, was highly blameable; was calculated to alienate the affections of the Israelites; and led to equivocation, if not downright falsehood.
six <08337> [the six.]
Achish <0397> [Achish.]
two <08147> [with his two.]
search <01245> [he sought.]
one ..... towns ................ city <05892 0259> [some town.]
Ziklag ........ Ziklag <06860> [Ziklag.]
Ziklag was at first given to the tribe of Judah, but was afterwards ceded to that of Simeon; but as it bordered on the Philistines, if they had ever been expelled, they had retaken it. Eusebius simply says it was situated in the south of Canaan.
length of time <04557> [the time. Heb. the number of days. a full year. Heb. a year of days.]
Geshurites <01651> [A.M. 2948. B.C. 1056. An. Ex. Is. 435. the Geshurites.]
Girzites <01511> [Gezrites. or, Gerzites.]
These people seem to be the Gerrhenians, (2 Mac 13:24) whose chief city, Gerrha, is mentioned by Strabo as lying between Gaza and Pelusium in Egypt.
Amalekites <06003> [the Amalekites.]
approach <0935> [as thou goest.]
man <0376> [left neither.]
camels <01581> [and the camels.]
<0408> [Whither, etc. or, Did you not make a road. And David.]
Negev ...... Negev ...... Negev <05045> [Against.]
David here meant the Geshurites, and Gezrites, and Amalekites, which people occupied that part of the country which lies to the south of Judah. But Achish, as was intended, understood him in a different sense, and believed that he had attacked his own countrymen. David's answer, therefore, though not an absolute falsehood, was certainly an equivocation intended to deceive, and therefore incompatible with that sense of truth and honour which became him as a prince, and a professor of true religion. From these, and similar passages, we may observe the strict impartiality of the Sacred Scriptures. They present us with the most faithful delineation of human nature; they exhibit the frailties of kings, priests, and prophets, with equal truth; and examples of vice and frailty, as well as of piety and virtue, are held up, that we may guard against the errors to which the best men are exposed.
Jeharmeel <03397> [the Jerahmeelites.]
Kenites <07017> [Kenites.]
tell <05046> [Lest.]
hated <0887> [utterly to abhor. Heb. to stink.]
Philistines <06430> [that the.]
Philistines <06430> [Philistines.]
go <03318> [thou shalt go.]
being .................. Then <03651> [Surely.]
Samuel <08050> [Samuel.]
removed <05493> [put away.]
Shunem <07766> [Shunem.]
Gilboa <01533> [Gilboa.]
was absolutely <03372> [he was afraid.]
inquired <07592> [enquired.]
dreams <02472> [by dreams.]
Urim <0224> [by Urim.]
prophets <05030> [by prophets.]
Find .... woman ......................... woman <01245 0802> [Seek me.]
medium ......................... medium <0178> [a familiar spirit.]
<03212> [that I may.]
Endor <05874> [En-dor.]
En-dor, a city of Manasseh, was situated in the plain of Jezreel; and Eusebius and Jerome inform us, that it was a great town in their days, four miles south from Mount Tabor, near Nain, towards Scythopolis. This agrees with Maundrell, who says, that not many miles eastward of Tabor, you see mount Hermon, at the foot of which is seated Nain and Endor; and Burckhardt says, that in two hours and a half from Nazareth, towards Scythopolis or Bisan, they came to the village of Denouny, near which are the ruins of Endor; where the witch's grotto is shewn.
disguised <02664> [disguised.]
Use ... ritual <07080> [I pray thee.]
up <05927> [bring me.]
<03772> [how he hath.]
trapping <05367> [wherefore.]
swore <07650> [sware.]
Saul ......... Saul <07586> [thou art Saul.]
god ... up <0430 05927> [gods ascending.]
appearance <08389> [What form is he of? Heb. What is his form? a mantle.]
disturbed <07264> [Why hast.]
troubled <03966> [I am sore.]
Philistines <06430> [the Philistines.]
God <0430> [God.]
answer <06030> [answereth.]
prophets <05030> [prophets. Heb. the hand of prophets. therefore.]
asking <07592> [Wherefore.]
enemy <06145> [and is become.]
has ...... prophesied <01696> [to him. or, for himself.]
The LXX. read [soi,] and the Vulgate {tibi,} to thee; which is the reading of five of Dr. Kennicott's and De Rossi's MSS., as well as both the Bibles printed at Venice in 1518, where we read {lecha,} "to thee," for {lo,} "to him;" and as the words are spoken to Saul, this seems to be evidently the correct reading.
has ...... prophesied <01696> [as he spake.]
hand <03027> [me. Heb. mine hand. thy neighbour.]
obey <08085> [obeyedst.]
Lord .............. Lord <03068> [hath the Lord.]
Lord ...................... Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
Tomorrow <04279> [and to-morrow.]
There is considerable diversity of opinion, both among learned and pious men, relative to this appearance to Saul. But the most probable opinion seems to be, that Samuel himself did actually appear to Saul, not by the power of enchantment, but by the appointment and especial mercy of God, to warn this infatuated monarch of his approaching end, that he might be reconciled with his Maker. There is not the smallest intimation of chicanery or Satanic influence given in the text; but on the contrary, from the plain and obvious meaning of the language employed, it is perfectly evident that it was Samuel himself, {Shemooel hoo,} as it is expressed in ver. 14. Indeed the very soul of Samuel seems to breathe in his expressions of displeasure against the disobedience and wickedness of Saul; while the awful prophetic denunciations which accordingly came to pass, were such as neither human nor diabolical wisdom could foresee, and which could only be known to God himself, and to those to whom he chose to reveal them.
quickly fell <05307 04116> [fell straightway. Heb. made haste and fell with the fullness of his stature. sore afraid.]
took <07760> [I have put.]
eat <0398> [I will.]
urged ....... gave in <06555 08085> [compelled him.]
well-fed calf <05695 04770> [a fat calf.]
Philistines <06430> [the Philistines.]
Aphek <0663> [Aphek.]
Jezreel <03157> [Jezreel.]
leaders <05633> [the lords.]
David <01732> [but David.]
David <01732> [Is not this David.]
These words seem to mark no definite time; and may be understood thus: "Is not this David, the servant of Saul the king of Israel, who has been with me for a considerable time?"
time ........... day ........ time <03117> [these days.]
found <04672> [found.]
Send ... man back .... return <0376 07725> [Make this fellow.]
The princes reasoned wisely, according to the common practice of mankind; and it was well for David that they were such good politicians: it was ordered by a gracious Providence that they refused to let David go with them to this battle, in which he must have been either an enemy to his country, or false to his friends and to his trust. Had he fought for the Philistines, he would have fought against God and his country; and had he in the battle gone over to the Israelites, he would have deceived and become a traitor to the hospitable Achish. God therefore delivered him from such disgrace; and by the same kind Providence he was sent back to rescue his wives, and the wives and children of his people, from captivity.
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
honest <03477> [thou hast.]
serving <03318> [thy going.]
found <04672> [I have not.]
leaders ..... reliable <02896 05633> [the lords favour, etc. Heb. thou art not good in the eyes of the lords.]
do <06213> [displease. Heb. do not evil in the eyes of the lords.]
done <06213> [But what have.]
presence <06440> [with. Heb. before. that I may not.]
angel <04397> [as an angel.]
leaders <08269> [the princes.]
Philistines .... Philistines <06430> [And the Philistines.]
Jezreel <03157> [Jezreel.]
Jezreel, or Esdr‘lon, was a city of Issachar, afterwards celebrated as the residence of the kings of Israel, delightfully situated in the extensive and fertile plain of the same name, which extends from Scythopolis or Bethshan on the east to mount Carmel on the west. Eusebius and Jerome inform us, that it was in their time a place of considerable consequence, lying between Scythopolis on the east and Legio on the west; and the latter (on Ho 1.) informs us that it was pretty near Maximianopolis. The Jerusalem Itinerary places it ten miles west from Scythopolis; and William of Tyre says it was called Little Gerinum in his time, and that there was a fine fountain in it, whose waters fell into the Jordan near Scythopolis. See ver. 1.
came <0935> [were come.]
third <07992> [on the third.]
This was the third day after he had left the Philistine army at Aphek, from which place, Calmet supposes, Ziklag was distant more than thirty leagues.
Amalekites <06003> [the Amalekites.]
kill anyone <04191 0376> [slew not.]
burned <08313> [burned.]
Then <05375> [lifted up.]
two wives .............. widow <08147 0802> [two wives.]
very <03966> [was greatly.]
men <05971> [the people.]
<04843> [grieved. Heb. bitter.]
David ....................... David <01732> [David.]
Abiathar .......... Abiathar <054> [Abiathar.]
inquired <07592> [enquired.]
saying .... pursue .......... said .... Pursue <0559 07291> [he answered him.]
hundred ........ hundred <03967> [for two hundred.]
exhausted <06296> [so faint.]
Wadi Besor <05158 01308> [the brook Besor.]
This brook or torrent, it is evident from the circumstances of the history, must be in the south-west part of Judea, and must empty itself into the Mediterranean Sea. In the more particular situation of it writers are not agreed. Some suppose it to be between Gaza and Rhinocorura; but Jerome places it between Rhinocorura and Egypt. It is supposed by some to be the same as the river of the wilderness, (Am 6:14,) and the river of Egypt, Jos 15:4.
gave ... bread <05414 03899> [gave him.]
<07307> [his spirit.]
three days ... three <07969 03117> [three days.]
master <0113> [my master.]
Though they had booty enough, and this poor sick slave might have been carried on an ass or a camel, yet they inhumanely left him to perish; but, in the righteous providence of God, this cruelty was the occasion of their destruction; whilst David's kindness to a perishing stranger and slave was the means of his success, and proved the truest policy.
Kerethites <03774> [the Cherethites.]
Calmet and others suppose that these people, who inhabited the same district as the Philistines, were the aborigines of the island of Crete, from which they derived their name.
Caleb <03612> [Caleb.]
A district in the south of Judea, in which were the cities of Kirjath-Arba or Hebron, and Kirjath-sepher, belonging to the family of Caleb.
burned <08313> [we burned.]
Swear <07650> [Swear.]
not .... or <05462 0518> [nor deliver.]
down <03381> [when he.]
eating <0398> [eating.]
<01419> [because of all.]
following <04283> [the next day. Heb. their morrow. and there.]
David ........................ David's plunder <01732 07998> [This is David's spoil.]
hundred <0582 03967> [two hundred men.]
approached <05066> [came near.]
asked <07592> [saluted them. Heb. asked them how they did.]
evil <07451> [wicked.]
<0582> [those. Heb. the men. Because.]
brothers <0251> [my brethren.]
Lord <03068> [which the Lord.]
protected <08104> [who hath.]
portion ................. portion <02506> [but as his part.]
This equitable edict was somewhat different from that which had so long obtained in Israel, and by which the spoil of the Midianites was divided: that related to the whole people: this only to the soldiers, some of whom went to battle, while others guarded the baggage.
remained <03427> [tarrieth.]
onward <04605> [forward. Heb. and forward.]
friends <07453> [to his friends.]
gift <01293> [present. Heb. blessing.]
Bethel <01008> [Beth-el.]
Probably not the celebrated city of this name, but Bethul a city of Simeon, (Jos 19:4,) supposed to be the same as Bethelia, mentioned by Sozomen as belonging to Gaza, well peopled, and having several temples remarkable for their structure and antiquity; and which Jerome says, in his life of Hilarion, was five short days' journey from Pelusium.
Ramoth Negev <07418 05045> [south Ramoth.]
A city of Simeon; so called to distinguish it from Ramoth Gilead beyond Jordan.
[Ramath. Jattir.]
Aroer <06177> [Aroer.]
Siphmoth <08224> [Siphmoth.]
Supposed to be the same with Shepham (Nu 34:10,) on the eastern borders of Canaan.
Eshtemoa <0851> [Eshtemoa.]
[Eshtemoh.]
Racal <07403> [Rachal.]
Supposed by Calmet to be the same as Hachilah.
Jerahmeelites <03397> [Jerahmeelites.]
The descendants of Jerahmeel son of Hezron, (1 Ch 2:9, 25-27,) who inhabited a district in the south of Judah.
Kenites <07017> [Kenites.]
These people inhabited a small tract west of the Dead Sea.
Hormah <02767> [Hormah.]
Bor Ashan <03565> [Chorashan.]
Probably the same as Ashan in Simeon, Jos 15:42; 19:7, which Eusebius says was sixteen miles west from Jerusalem.
Hebron <02275> [Hebron.]
Philistines ............. Philistines <06430> [the Philistines.]
fell <05307> [fell down.]
dead <02491> [slain. Heb. wounded. Gilboa.]
Eusebius and Jerome place this mountain six miles west from Bethshan, where was a large place called Gelbus. The natives still call it Djebel Gilbo.
heels <01692> [followed.]
Jonathan <03083> [Jonathan.]
Saul ........ Saul's sons <07586 01121> [Saul's sons.]
thick <03513> [went sore.]
archers spotted <04672 03384> [archers hit him. Heb. shooters, men with bows, found him.]
Draw <08025> [Draw.]
uncircumcised people <06189> [uncircumcised.]
bearer ................... torture ...... bearer <05953 05375> [abuse me. or, mock me. he was sore.]
Saul ........................................ Saul <07586> [Saul.]
sword ................................... sword <02719> [a sword.]
{Eth hacherve,} rather, "the sword," i.e., his armour- bearer's, who, according to the Jews, was Doeg; and if so, then Saul and his executioner fell by the same sword with which they massacred the priests of God.
abandoned ... cities <05800 05892> [they forsook the cities.]
strip <06584> [to strip.]
cut off <03772> [cut off.]
announce <01319> [to publish.]
placed <07760> [they put.]
The Philistines placed the armour of Saul in the temple of Ashtaroth as a trophy of victory, and a testimony of their gratitude, in the same manner as David placed the sword of Goliath in the tabernacle.
Ashtoreths <06252> [Ashtaroth.]
Beth Shan <01052> [Bethshan.]
Jabesh <03003> [Jabesh-gilead.]
Philistines <06430> [of that. or, concerning him, that which, etc.]
burned <08313> [burnt them there.]
bones <06106> [their bones.]
fasted ... seven <07651 06684> [fasted seven.]
