Definition: And the king said unto the footmen that stood about him, Turn, and slay the priests of the LORD; because their hand also [is] with David, and because they knew when he fled, and did not shew it to me. But the servants of the king would not put forth their hand to fall upon the priests of the LORD.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 22:17. It’s a really interesting and dramatic passage about David and his enemies. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: David was fleeing from King Saul. This is the core of the story. David, who was a very skilled and popular king, had been spotted by Saul, the King of Israel. Saul was determined to kill him. The King's Men Ordered a Hunt: The King’s men (guards) told David to turn around and hunt down the priests of God – essentially, the religious leaders. The Priests Were Being Discreetly Helped: Crucially, the King’s men didn’t just rush out and kill the priests. Instead, they were subtly guiding David away from them. They knew when he was fleeing because he was constantly moving. What's the Key Message? This verse is about protection and divine protection. It shows that God is actively watching over David and protecting him from harm. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: God is Protective: The Bible says God is “watching” over David. This isn't just a casual observation; it’s a powerful declaration of divine care. God Knows David’s Plans: The King’s men were trying to thwart David’s escape. God knew about this and was actively working to prevent it. Divine Intervention: The verse suggests that God is involved in the events, intervening to protect those he loves. It's a reminder of God’s presence and protection. It's a bit symbolic – it's not necessarily about a direct battle. It speaks to a deeper sense of divine guidance and safety for David. In short, this verse tells us that God is actively safeguarding David from danger, even as he flees. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Explore the context of this passage in more detail (like its significance in the Bible)?