1 Samuel 19:19

And it was told Saul, saying, Behold, David [is] at Naioth in Ramah.

And it was told {H5046} Saul {H7586}, saying {H559}, Behold, David {H1732} is at Naioth {H5121} in Ramah {H7414}.

The news reached Sha'ul that David had been seen at the prophets'dormitory in Ramah.

When Saul was told that David was at Naioth in Ramah,

And it was told Saul, saying, Behold, David is at Naioth in Ramah.

Commentary

Context of 1 Samuel 19:19

This verse marks a critical point in the escalating conflict between King Saul and David. Having previously displayed intense jealousy and made several attempts on David's life, including throwing a spear at him, Saul is now in full pursuit. David, warned by Jonathan and aided by his wife Michal (1 Samuel 19:17), has fled Jerusalem and sought refuge with the prophet Samuel in Ramah. Specifically, David is located at Naioth, a place associated with Samuel and a company of prophets. The news reaching Saul in this verse confirms David's whereabouts, prompting Saul's direct action to apprehend him.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Relentless Pursuit: Saul's obsession with eliminating David is evident. His paranoia and jealousy drive him to extraordinary lengths, even pursuing David into a known prophetic sanctuary.
  • Divine Protection: Despite Saul's determined efforts, God consistently protects David. David's choice to seek refuge with Samuel, God's prophet, highlights a reliance on divine guidance and protection rather than human might.
  • Sanctuary and Prophetic Community: Naioth in Ramah served as a place where Samuel presided over a company of prophets. David's presence there signifies a spiritual haven, a place under the direct influence of God's Spirit, which becomes crucial in the subsequent verses.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Naioth" (Hebrew: Navot, Χ ΦΈΧ•ΦΉΧͺ) literally means "dwellings" or "habitations." It is understood to refer to a specific complex of buildings or a community within Ramah where Samuel and the company of prophets lived, studied, and ministered. This was likely a school or center for prophetic activity, emphasizing the spiritual nature of David's refuge.

Practical Application

This verse, though simple in its statement, sets the stage for a powerful display of God's sovereignty. For us today, it illustrates that even when facing intense opposition or persecution, there is a place of refuge and safety found in God's presence and, often, within a believing community. It reminds us that:

  • God is aware of our location and circumstances, even when we are most vulnerable.
  • Seeking spiritual counsel and fellowship (like David with Samuel) can provide protection and guidance in times of distress.
  • No human pursuit, however relentless, can ultimately thwart God's divine plan for those He has chosen and protected. We can find comfort in the assurance that God is our refuge and strength.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 26:1

    ΒΆ And the Ziphites came unto Saul to Gibeah, saying, Doth not David hide himself in the hill of Hachilah, [which is] before Jeshimon?

  • 1 Samuel 23:19

    ΒΆ Then came up the Ziphites to Saul to Gibeah, saying, Doth not David hide himself with us in strong holds in the wood, in the hill of Hachilah, which [is] on the south of Jeshimon?

  • 1 Samuel 22:9

    Then answered Doeg the Edomite, which was set over the servants of Saul, and said, I saw the son of Jesse coming to Nob, to Ahimelech the son of Ahitub.

  • 1 Samuel 22:10

    And he enquired of the LORD for him, and gave him victuals, and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine.

  • Proverbs 29:12

    ΒΆ If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants [are] wicked.
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