Definition: And it came to pass on the morrow, that the evil spirit from God came upon Saul, and he prophesied in the midst of the house: and David played with his hand, as at other times: and [there was] a javelin in Saulâs hand.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage. It's a really interesting and dramatic moment in Samuel’s story! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: Samuel is speaking to David: In the midst of a tense situation, Samuel, who was the high priest, is speaking to David, who was playing with a javelin. An Evil Spirit Comes Out: Suddenly, a powerful evil spirit – often called an “evil spirit” – appears and starts affecting David. It’s like a sudden, intense surge of something dark and disruptive. David Plays with His Hand: This is key! David, who was already known for his bravery and skill with a bow and arrow, begins to act erratically and wildly while playing with the javelin. It's as if he’s losing control. “As at other times” : This refers back to a previous event where David was behaving in a similar way. It suggests this is a recurring pattern of behavior. Putting it Together – What’s Happening? This verse describes a moment of intense disruption and potential danger. The evil spirit is actively influencing David, causing him to act impulsively and perhaps even threatening the situation. It's a sign that something isn’t right and that David might be falling into temptation or being overwhelmed by forces beyond his control. Important Note: The “javelin” part is crucial! It suggests a moment of intense action, possibly with a violent element. Overall Meaning & Context: This passage is significant because it shows the beginning of a very challenging situation for David. It highlights the potential for evil to influence even the most skilled and courageous individuals. It's often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of succumbing to temptation or being controlled by forces that aren’t benevolent. Do you want me to: Explain any specific part in more detail? Connect this verse to other parts of the Bible? Discuss what it might symbolize?