1 Samuel 22:10

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

And he enquired {H7592} of the LORD {H3068} for him, and gave {H5414} him victuals {H6720}, and gave {H5414} him the sword {H2719} of Goliath {H1555} the Philistine {H6430}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He consulted ADONAI for him, gave him food and gave him the sword of Golyat the P'lishti."

Berean Standard Bible

Ahimelech inquired of the LORD for him and gave him provisions. He also gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine.”

American Standard Version

And he inquired of Jehovah for him, and gave him victuals, and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 22:10 describes the crucial assistance David received from Ahimelech the priest at Nob during his desperate flight from King Saul. This verse encapsulates three significant acts: Ahimelech's consultation of the LORD on David's behalf, his provision of consecrated food (often understood as the showbread) for David and his men, and his giving David the very sword of Goliath. These actions, born of compassion and adherence to priestly duty, highlight God's sovereign provision for His anointed amidst human deception and escalating royal paranoia, tragically setting the stage for severe consequences.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows [Doeg the Edomite's report to King Saul](/1_samuel/22-9 "1 Samuel 22:9 - Doeg's Report to Saul") concerning David's visit to Ahimelech. The narrative arc begins in [1 Samuel 21:1](/1_samuel/21-1 "1 Samuel 21:1 - David's Arrival at Nob"), where David, fleeing Saul's increasingly irrational wrath, arrives at Nob, the city of priests, famished and unarmed. To secure aid, David fabricates a story about being on a secret royal mission. Unaware of the true animosity between David and Saul, Ahimelech provides the requested assistance, including the sacred showbread and Goliath's sword. This act of aid, though well-intentioned and based on David's deception, directly precipitates the horrific massacre of the priests of Nob, detailed later in [1 Samuel 22:18-19](/1_samuel/22-18-19 "1 Samuel 22:18-19 - Massacre of the Priests of Nob"), underscoring the escalating tragedy of Saul's reign and David's desperate plight.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, priests served as intermediaries between God and the people. Consulting "the LORD" (often through the Urim and Thummim contained within the high priestly ephod) was a legitimate means of seeking divine guidance for important matters, particularly for leaders or in times of crisis. The "victuals" refer to the showbread, twelve loaves of consecrated bread placed weekly on the table in the Tabernacle's Holy Place, normally reserved for priests to eat ([Leviticus 24:5-9](/leviticus/24-5-9 "Leviticus 24:5-9 - The Law of the Showbread")). Ahimelech's provision of this bread to David demonstrates a compassionate understanding that human necessity could, in extreme circumstances, supersede ritual law, a principle later affirmed by Jesus in [Matthew 12:3-4](/matthew/12-3-4 "Matthew 12:3-4 - Jesus on David and the Showbread"). Goliath's sword, kept in the sanctuary (likely at Nob) as a trophy of God's victory through David ([1 Samuel 21:9](/1_samuel/21-9 "1 Samuel 21:9 - Goliath's Sword in the Sanctuary")), was a powerful symbol of divine deliverance and anointing.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 1 Samuel. It highlights **Divine Provision and Guidance**, showing how God orchestrates circumstances to care for His anointed, David, even when David is on the run and resorting to deception. Ahimelech's actions exemplify **Priestly Duty and Compassion**, demonstrating the priest's role in seeking God's will and providing for those in need, even at great personal risk. The gift of **Goliath's Sword** is rich in symbolism, serving as a tangible reminder of David's past triumph and God's faithfulness, re-equipping him for the dangerous journey ahead and foreshadowing his future as Israel's deliverer, much like God's deliverance in [1 Samuel 17:47](/1_samuel/17-47 "1 Samuel 17:47 - God's Deliverance"). Finally, the verse subtly underscores the **Consequences of Deception and Paranoia**, as David's desperate lie and Saul's unchecked suspicion tragically converge to bring about the destruction of the priestly city, a dark stain on Saul's reign and a testament to the destructive power of unrighteous anger.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **enquired (Hebrew, _shâʼal'_):** This verb, derived from H7592, means "to inquire" or "to request," and by implication, "to demand." In this context, it specifically denotes seeking divine counsel, typically through the priestly use of the ephod, which contained the Urim and Thummim. Ahimelech's action here signifies that he treated David as a legitimate figure worthy of divine consultation, unaware of his true fugitive status. This formal consultation was a legitimate and crucial means for leaders in ancient Israel to discern God's will in matters of state or personal crisis.
* **victuals (Hebrew, _tsêydâh'_):** Derived from H6720, this term generally refers to "food," "meat," or "provision." While a general term for sustenance, in this specific narrative context, it is understood to refer to the "holy bread" or "showbread" (Hebrew: לֶחֶם הַפָּנִים, *lechem ha-panim*), which was consecrated bread placed before the Lord in the Tabernacle. This bread was typically reserved exclusively for the priests to eat in a holy place, making Ahimelech's decision to give it to David a significant act of compassion that prioritized human need over strict ritual observance.
* **sword (Hebrew, _chereb'_):** From H2719, this word denotes a "cutting instrument," such as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement, emphasizing its destructive effect. More than just a weapon, Goliath's sword was a powerful artifact. It was a trophy of war, symbolizing God's miraculous victory over the Philistine champion through David ([1 Samuel 17:50-51](/1_samuel/17-50-51 "1 Samuel 17:50-51 - David Takes Goliath's Sword")). Its presence in the sanctuary indicated its sacred status as a memorial to God's power. Giving it back to David was not merely providing a weapon but re-equipping him with a tangible reminder of God's past faithfulness and a symbol of his divine anointing and future role as a warrior-king.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he enquired of the LORD for him":** This clause highlights Ahimelech's role as a faithful priest, performing his duty to seek divine guidance. By inquiring of the LORD for David, Ahimelech implicitly acknowledges David's status as a significant figure, perhaps a royal emissary as David claimed, or at least someone whose plight warranted divine attention. This act underscores the priest's intermediary function and the importance of seeking God's will in critical situations.
* **"and gave him victuals":** This refers to the showbread, an act of compassionate provision that transcended strict ritual law. Ahimelech recognized David's desperate hunger and the urgency of the situation, choosing mercy over rigid adherence to the letter of the law. This action demonstrates a profound understanding of the spirit of the law, where human life and well-being could, in exceptional circumstances, take precedence over ceremonial regulations.
* **"and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine":** This is a highly symbolic act. Receiving the very sword with which he had slain Goliath served as a powerful re-affirmation of David's past victory and God's anointing upon him. It was not just a weapon for self-defense but a tangible reminder of God's power to deliver His people, equipping David not only physically but also spiritually for the dangerous and uncertain path ahead as God's chosen king, even while on the run.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices that enrich its meaning. **Irony** is prominent: Ahimelech, acting faithfully within his priestly duties and out of compassion, unwittingly aids David, a fugitive, based on a deception. This righteous act ultimately leads to his tragic death and the massacre of his priestly family at Saul's command, highlighting the devastating consequences of Saul's unchecked paranoia and David's desperate measures. **Symbolism** is powerfully at play with "the sword of Goliath." This weapon is not merely a tool but a potent symbol of God's past deliverance, David's anointing, and the promise of future victories. Its return to David re-equips him with a tangible reminder of divine favor and foreshadows his continued role as God's warrior. There is also an element of **Foreshadowing**, as the provision of food and a weapon for David, though he is in flight, hints at God's continued protection and preparation of David for his eventual kingship, despite the immediate adversity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 22:10 powerfully illustrates God's sovereign providence, meticulously orchestrating circumstances to protect and prepare His chosen servant, David, even amidst human frailty and escalating conflict. Ahimelech's actions, whether fully informed or not, become instruments of divine care, providing essential sustenance and a symbolic weapon that reaffirms David's identity and calling. The tension between strict adherence to ritual law and the compassionate provision for human need, exemplified by the showbread, foreshadows New Testament principles concerning mercy and the spirit of the law. This episode also underscores the profound consequences of sin—Saul's paranoia and David's deception—which, though used by God, lead to tragic human suffering.

* [Matthew 12:3-4](/matthew/12-3-4 "Matthew 12:3-4 - Jesus on David and the Showbread")
* [Psalm 18:32-34](/psalm/18-32-34 "Psalm 18:32-34 - God Equips for Battle")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse offers profound insights for believers navigating their own seasons of uncertainty and trial. It reminds us that even when our circumstances are desperate, and perhaps even when we make imperfect choices (like David's deception), God's sovereign hand is at work, often providing for our needs through unexpected channels and the kindness of others. David receiving Goliath's sword serves as a powerful call to remember God's past faithfulness and victories in our lives; these memories can become our "swords" of courage and faith when facing new, daunting challenges. Furthermore, Ahimelech's willingness to prioritize compassion over rigid rules encourages us to consider the spirit of love and mercy in our interactions and decisions, especially when ministering to those in dire need. The tragic aftermath, however, also serves as a somber reminder of the far-reaching and often devastating consequences of deception and unchecked anger or paranoia, urging us to seek integrity and self-control even under immense pressure.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this account of God's provision for David in a desperate situation resonate with your own experiences of God's care?**
* **In what ways can remembering past spiritual victories (like David receiving Goliath's sword) equip and strengthen you for current or future challenges?**
* **What ethical dilemmas does David's deception raise, and how do we balance survival instincts with moral integrity?**
* **How might Ahimelech's decision to give the showbread to David inform our understanding of mercy versus strict adherence to rules in our spiritual lives or church communities?**

### FAQ
**Why did Ahimelech help David without question, given David was a fugitive?**

Answer: Ahimelech was likely unaware of the true extent of the rift between King Saul and David, or that David was a fugitive. David presented himself as being on a secret mission for the king, a plausible cover story for a royal figure like David to be traveling without an entourage or supplies. As a priest, Ahimelech had a duty to provide hospitality and spiritual counsel, especially to someone he perceived as a legitimate servant of the king. His actions were based on David's deceptive presentation and his own priestly responsibilities, not on any intent to defy Saul. The narrative in [1 Samuel 21:1-2](/1_samuel/21-1-2 "1 Samuel 21:1-2 - David's Deception at Nob") clearly shows David's intentional misrepresentation of his circumstances.

**Was Ahimelech justified in giving David the showbread, which was normally reserved for priests?**

Answer: The Mosaic Law stipulated that the showbread was for the priests to eat in a holy place ([Leviticus 24:5-9](/leviticus/24-5-9 "Leviticus 24:5-9 - The Law of the Showbread")). However, Ahimelech's decision to give it to David and his men, who were famished, demonstrates a principle that human need, especially in a life-threatening situation, could take precedence over ritual law. Jesus Himself later affirmed this principle when challenged about His disciples picking grain on the Sabbath, referencing David's act at Nob as a precedent for mercy over sacrifice ([Matthew 12:3-4](/matthew/12-3-4 "Matthew 12:3-4 - Jesus on David and the Showbread"); [Mark 2:25-26](/mark/2-25-26 "Mark 2:25-26 - Jesus on David and the Showbread"); [Luke 6:3-4](/luke/6-3-4 "Luke 6:3-4 - Jesus on David and the Showbread")). This suggests that Ahimelech's action, while technically a deviation from the letter of the law, was justifiable in the eyes of God due to the extreme necessity and compassion.

**What is the symbolic significance of David receiving Goliath's sword?**

Answer: Goliath's sword was far more than just a weapon; it was a powerful symbol of God's miraculous intervention and David's anointing. David had used only a sling and a stone to defeat Goliath, and then used Goliath's own sword to kill him ([1 Samuel 17:50-51](/1_samuel/17-50-51 "1 Samuel 17:50-51 - David and Goliath")). Keeping it in the sanctuary at Nob ([1 Samuel 21:9](/1_samuel/21-9 "1 Samuel 21:9 - Goliath's Sword in the Sanctuary")) marked it as a trophy of divine victory. Its return to David at this desperate moment served to re-equip him not just physically, but also spiritually. It was a tangible reminder of God's past faithfulness, His power to deliver, and David's identity as God's chosen warrior. It symbolized hope and divine empowerment for the difficult journey ahead, reinforcing that the same God who delivered him from Goliath would continue to be with him against Saul and other enemies.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The desperate flight of David, his reliance on divine provision through human instruments, and his re-equipping with Goliath's sword serve as a rich tapestry foreshadowing the person and work of Jesus Christ. Like David, who was God's anointed king on the run, Jesus was the true Anointed One, the King of kings, who also experienced a period of flight and homelessness, even as an infant fleeing Herod's murderous decree ([Matthew 2:13-15](/matthew/2-13-15 "Matthew 2:13-15 - Flight to Egypt")). Just as Ahimelech provided "victuals" (the holy bread) to sustain David, Jesus declares Himself to be the true "Bread of Life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")), the ultimate spiritual sustenance for all who believe, freely given to satisfy the deepest hunger of humanity. Furthermore, the sword of Goliath, symbolizing victory over a formidable enemy, points to Christ's ultimate triumph. Jesus, the greater David, did not merely defeat a physical giant but conquered the ultimate enemies of humanity: sin, death, and the devil ([Hebrews 2:14](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14 - Jesus Destroys the Power of Death"); [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). His "sword" is the Word of God, the instrument by which He establishes His kingdom and equips His followers for spiritual warfare ([Ephesians 6:17](/ephesians/6-17 "Ephesians 6:17 - The Sword of the Spirit")). Thus, David's experience at Nob, marked by divine provision and symbolic re-armament, beautifully prefigures the comprehensive provision and decisive victory found in Christ, our true King and Deliverer.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Numbers 27:21

And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall ask [counsel] for him after the judgment of Urim before the LORD: at his word shall they go out, and at his word they shall come in, [both] he, and all the children of Israel with him, even all the congregation.

1 Samuel 30:8

And David enquired at the LORD, saying, Shall I pursue after this troop? shall I overtake them? And he answered him, Pursue: for thou shalt surely overtake [them], and without fail recover [all].

1 Samuel 23:4

Then David enquired of the LORD yet again. And the LORD answered him and said, Arise, go down to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines into thine hand.

1 Samuel 23:2

Therefore David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the LORD said unto David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah.

1 Samuel 22:15

Did I then begin to enquire of God for him? be it far from me: let not the king impute [any] thing unto his servant, [nor] to all the house of my father: for thy servant knew nothing of all this, less or more.

1 Samuel 10:22

Therefore they enquired of the LORD further, if the man should yet come thither. And the LORD answered, Behold, he hath hid himself among the stuff.

1 Samuel 23:12

Then said David, Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul? And the LORD said, They will deliver [thee] up.