Definition: So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay sleeping within the trench, and his spear stuck in the ground at his bolster: but Abner and the people lay round about him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 26:7. It's a really important moment in the story of David’s rise to power! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: David and Abishai are meeting people: David is traveling through Israel, and he’s joined by his friend Abishai. They’re essentially making contact with a group of people. Saul is asleep: There's a man named Saul who was the commander of the army at the time. He was sleeping soundly in a trench – imagine a defensive wall – right within the walls of a fortress or camp. The Spear is Stuck: Importantly, Saul’s spear was stuck in the ground at his bolster (a small stand). It wasn't just lying there; it was firmly lodged. The People Are Around: The people were gathered around Saul, observing him. What happened next? Abner arrives: Abner, David’s uncle and a trusted advisor, shows up. He’s not happy about the situation! He’s concerned: Abner is worried because he believes Saul might be a threat to Israel. The Key Point – It's a Setup for Something Big This verse sets the stage for a significant event. It’s a crucial moment where David is being subtly manipulated. Abner is essentially giving David an opportunity to potentially take over Saul’s position. He’s suggesting that David might be stronger than Saul, and that he should consider taking the mantle of leadership. In essence, it's a strategic move by Abner – he's trying to get David to do something that will benefit him. It’s important to note: This verse is part of a larger story about David’s growing power and his relationships with those around him. It highlights the tension between loyalty and ambition, and the way people can be used to achieve their own goals. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail?