Definition: And he said, Wherefore doth my lord thus pursue after his servant? for what have I done? or what evil [is] in mine hand?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 26:18. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling passage about a king’s pursuit of his son. Here's a simplified explanation: What it says: “And he said, Wherefore doth my lord thus pursue after his servant? for what have I done? or what evil [is] in mine hand?” In simpler terms, here’s the gist: The King is Furious: The king is incredibly upset. He's clearly feeling betrayed and unjustly treated. His Son is Being Pursued: He’s saying that his son is being relentlessly pursued by the king. This implies a constant and escalating effort to find him. He Doesn't Know Why: Crucially, he’s asking why he's being pursued. He doesn’t understand the reason for this relentless pursuit. He Doesn't Know What He Did Wrong: The most unsettling part is that he doesn't know if he has done anything wrong or evil. This suggests a level of guilt and uncertainty that elevates the situation significantly. What it might mean – it’s open to interpretation, but here are some possibilities: A Past Crime? : It could be referencing a past transgression that the king is trying to correct, but he doesn't know how. A Mistaken Identity? : Perhaps this son was mistaken for someone else, and the king is pursuing him as a result. A Secret Threat: It might hint at a deeper conspiracy or threat against the king’s son. Context is Key: This verse is from a very difficult situation in Samuel's life – his son had been killed by a rival family. It’s a moment of intense anguish and a potential turning point for the story. Important Note: The meaning of this verse has been debated throughout history, and there isn’t one single definitive interpretation. It’s a powerful and emotionally charged passage that speaks to themes of betrayal, guilt, and uncertainty. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of the story? Discuss the context of this verse in more detail?