1 Samuel 24:11

KJV

Moreover, my father, see, yea, see the skirt of thy robe in my hand: for in that I cut off the skirt of thy robe, and killed thee not, know thou and see that [there is] neither evil nor transgression in mine hand, and I have not sinned against thee; yet thou huntest my soul to take it.

KJV (with Strong's)

Moreover, my father {H1}, see {H7200}, yea, see {H7200} the skirt {H3671} of thy robe {H4598} in my hand {H3027}: for in that I cut off {H3772} the skirt {H3671} of thy robe {H4598}, and killed {H2026} thee not, know {H3045} thou and see {H7200} that there is neither evil {H7451} nor transgression {H6588} in mine hand {H3027}, and I have not sinned {H2398} against thee; yet thou huntest {H6658} my soul {H5315} to take {H3947} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moreover, my father, look! Here in my hand you see the corner of your cloak. By the fact that I only cut off a piece of your cloak and didn't kill you, you can see and understand that I have no plan to do harm or rebel, and that I haven't sinned against you -even though you are seeking every chance you get to take my life.

Berean Standard Bible

See, my father, look at the corner of your robe in my hand. For I cut it off, but I did not kill you. See and know that there is no evil or rebellion in my hands. I have not sinned against you, even though you are hunting me down to take my life.

American Standard Version

Moreover, my father, see, yea, see the skirt of thy robe in my hand; for in that I cut off the skirt of thy robe, and killed thee not, know thou and see that there is neither evil nor transgression in my hand, and I have not sinned against thee, though thou huntest after my life to take it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 24:11 captures David's poignant and powerful appeal to King Saul, immediately after David had spared Saul's life in the cave of Engedi. Holding a piece of Saul's robe that he secretly cut off, David presents irrefutable evidence of his proximity and opportunity to kill the king, yet his deliberate choice not to. This verse serves as David's emphatic declaration of innocence, asserting that he harbors no evil or rebellious intent against Saul, despite the king's relentless and unjust pursuit of his life. It highlights David's integrity, his respect for God's anointed, and the stark contrast between his righteous character and Saul's paranoid malevolence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the dramatic climax of the encounter between David and Saul in the wilderness of Engedi, following closely on the heels of David's act of profound mercy. In the preceding verses (1 Samuel 24:1-7), Saul, pursuing David with 3,000 chosen men, enters a cave to relieve himself, unaware that David and his 600 men are hidden deep within. David's men urge him to seize this divinely-given opportunity to kill Saul, but David, holding Saul in reverence as "the LORD's anointed," refuses to lay a hand on him. Instead, he secretly cuts off a corner of Saul's robe. After Saul leaves the cave, David, filled with remorse even for this minor act of disrespect, calls out to Saul. This verse marks the moment David reveals himself and presents the tangible proof of his restraint, initiating a powerful, albeit temporary, reconciliation between the two men.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the rugged, cave-filled wilderness of Engedi, a desolate region near the Dead Sea, which provided natural hiding places for David and his followers. In ancient Israel, the king was considered God's chosen representative, and to harm him, even if he was a wicked ruler, was viewed as an offense against God Himself. The "skirt" or "corner" of a garment (Hebrew: _kanaph_) held significant symbolic weight, often representing one's authority, honor, or even identity. To cut it off could be seen as a profound insult or a symbolic act of diminishing or usurping power, as implied in [1 Samuel 15:27-28](/1_samuel/15-27 "1 Samuel 15:27-28 - Samuel's Robe and Saul's Kingdom"). David's act, therefore, was not merely proof of his presence but a deeply symbolic demonstration of his power over Saul's life and his deliberate choice to refrain from using it. Saul's "hunting" of David reflects the brutal realities of ancient monarchies, where perceived threats to the throne were often met with relentless and often violent suppression.
* **Key Themes:** This pivotal moment powerfully illustrates several overarching themes in 1 Samuel. Firstly, **David's integrity and profound respect for divine authority** are paramount; despite Saul's unrighteousness, David honors the office of the king as God's anointed, refusing to take vengeance into his own hands, a principle later echoed in [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance is the Lord's"). Secondly, the theme of **divine vindication and justice** is evident, as David trusts God to deal with Saul rather than resorting to violence. His blamelessness ("neither evil nor transgression") stands in stark contrast to Saul's unfounded accusations and relentless persecution, highlighting the **injustice faced by the righteous**. Finally, the passage underscores the **power of humility and mercy** in de-escalating conflict, even if only temporarily, demonstrating a leadership quality that distinguishes David from Saul and foreshadows his future reign, marked by a heart aligned with God's.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **"my father" (Hebrew, אֲבִי, _'avi'_):** This term of address is profoundly significant. While Saul was David's father-in-law (through Michal), the use of "my father" here transcends a mere familial title. It is a respectful, almost pleading address from a subordinate to a superior, a younger man to an elder, and a subject to his king. It carries a tone of lament and filial piety, appealing to a broken relationship and highlighting David's continued reverence despite Saul's irrational hatred. It contrasts sharply with Saul's behavior, which is anything but paternal.
* **"skirt" (Hebrew, כָּנָף, _kanaph'_):** The Hebrew word _kanaph_ literally means "wing" or "extremity," and metaphorically refers to the corner or skirt of a garment. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the "skirt" of a robe could symbolize a person's authority, honor, or even their very identity. To cut off the skirt was not just a physical act but a symbolic one, often associated with diminishing or usurping one's power or authority, as seen when Samuel's robe is torn in [1 Samuel 15:27-28](/1_samuel/15-27 "1 Samuel 15:27-28 - Samuel's Robe and Saul's Kingdom"). David's possession of Saul's skirt thus serves as undeniable proof of his proximity and opportunity to harm Saul, making his choice not to kill him even more potent.
* **"evil nor transgression" (Hebrew, רָעָה וָפֶשַׁע, _ra'ah va'pesha'_):** This phrase encapsulates David's emphatic denial of any wrongdoing. _Ra'ah_ (evil) is a broad term referring to general wickedness, harm, or misfortune. _Pesha'_ (transgression) is a stronger term, often translated as "rebellion," "revolt," or "treachery," implying a deliberate breaking of a covenant or a serious offense against authority. By denying both, David is asserting his complete innocence against Saul's accusations that he is a rebel seeking the throne. He affirms that his actions are not motivated by malice or disloyalty but by respect for God's established order.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Moreover, my father, see, yea, see the skirt of thy robe in my hand:"** David's opening is an immediate, direct, and respectful address to Saul, using the deferential "my father." He commands Saul's attention with the repeated imperative "see, yea, see," emphasizing the undeniable physical evidence he holds. The skirt of the robe is presented as a tangible, irrefutable witness to David's presence and opportunity.
* **"for in that I cut off the skirt of thy robe, and killed thee not,"** This clause explains the significance of the evidence. David explicitly states that he had the means and opportunity to kill Saul ("cut off the skirt of thy robe" implying extreme proximity and vulnerability) but deliberately chose not to ("killed thee not"). This highlights his restraint and the depth of his respect for Saul's life and his position as God's anointed.
* **"know thou and see that [there is] neither evil nor transgression in mine hand, and I have not sinned against thee;"** This is David's powerful declaration of innocence. He calls upon Saul to acknowledge the truth: his hands are clean of any malicious intent (_ra'ah_) or rebellious act (_pesha'_). He has committed no sin against Saul, directly refuting all of Saul's paranoid accusations of treason and usurpation.
* **"yet thou huntest my soul to take it."** This final clause presents a stark and painful contrast. Despite David's demonstrated blamelessness and mercy, Saul continues his relentless, unwarranted pursuit. The phrase "huntest my soul to take it" vividly portrays Saul's murderous intent, highlighting the profound injustice and the desperate situation David finds himself in, pursued by the very king he honors.

#### Literary Devices
The passage powerfully employs **Dramatic Irony**, as Saul is initially unaware that David and his men are in the cave, while the audience knows David has spared his life. This creates tension and underscores David's moral superiority. **Symbolism** is central, with the "skirt of the robe" acting as a potent symbol of Saul's vulnerability, David's proximity, and his deliberate choice not to harm the king. It also symbolizes Saul's diminishing authority and David's burgeoning integrity. The dialogue is imbued with **Pathos**, as David's respectful address ("my father") and his plea for understanding evoke sympathy for his unjust persecution. Finally, the entire verse is built on **Contrast**: David's mercy versus Saul's malice, David's innocence versus Saul's accusation, and David's respect for authority versus Saul's abuse of power.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 24:11 serves as a profound illustration of how God's chosen deliverer operates with integrity and a deep reverence for divine order, even when facing extreme provocation. David's refusal to harm Saul, despite having the perfect opportunity, is not merely an act of personal restraint but a theological statement: he trusts God's timing and method for establishing the kingdom, rather than resorting to human violence or political maneuvering. This demonstrates a faith that believes God is sovereign over all circumstances, including the rise and fall of kings. David's blamelessness in the face of false accusations also foreshadows the suffering of the righteous, who are often persecuted despite their innocence, relying on God for ultimate vindication.

* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.")
* [Psalm 7:3-5](/psalms/7-3 "Psalm 7:3-5 - If I have rewarded evil unto him that was at peace with me; (yea, I have delivered him that without cause is mine enemy:) Let the enemy persecute my soul, and take it; yea, let him tread down my life upon the earth, and lay mine honour in the dust. Selah.")
* [Matthew 5:44](/matthew/5-44 "Matthew 5:44 - But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's encounter with Saul in the cave of Engedi, culminating in this powerful appeal, offers timeless lessons for believers navigating complex relationships and unjust circumstances. It challenges us to cultivate a heart of mercy and restraint, even when presented with seemingly perfect opportunities for retaliation or self-vindication. David's unwavering respect for God's anointed, despite Saul's deeply flawed character, teaches us to honor positions of authority, understanding that ultimate judgment belongs to God. In a world often driven by vengeance and self-preservation, David's example calls us to a higher standard: to respond to evil with good, to maintain integrity under pressure, and to trust God's sovereign hand to bring about justice in His perfect timing. Our actions, like the piece of Saul's robe in David's hand, should serve as clear evidence of our character and our commitment to Christ-like principles, even when our motives are misunderstood or we face baseless accusations.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I respond when I have an opportunity to "get even" with someone who has wronged me?**
* **In what ways can I demonstrate respect for authority, even when I disagree with or am hurt by those in power?**
* **What does it look like to trust God for vindication when I am falsely accused or unjustly treated?**
* **How can my actions speak louder than my words in demonstrating my integrity and Christ-like character?**

### FAQ
**Why did David cut off the skirt of Saul's robe instead of killing him?**

Answer: David cut off the skirt of Saul's robe as a symbolic act to demonstrate his proximity to Saul and his ability to harm him, without actually taking Saul's life. His men urged him to kill Saul, viewing it as a divine opportunity, but David refused, stating that he would not "stretch forth my hand against the LORD's anointed" ([1 Samuel 24:6](/1_samuel/24-6 "1 Samuel 24:6 - David refuses to harm Saul")). The act of cutting the robe served as irrefutable proof to Saul that David had him at his mercy but chose restraint and respect for God's chosen king. It was a powerful, non-violent way to prove his innocence and loyalty, contrasting sharply with Saul's paranoid accusations.

**What does "neither evil nor transgression in mine hand" mean in this context?**

Answer: When David declares "neither evil nor transgression in mine hand," he is emphatically stating his complete innocence of any wrongdoing or rebellion against King Saul. "Evil" (Hebrew: _ra'ah_) refers to general malice or harm, while "transgression" (Hebrew: _pesha'_) denotes a more serious offense, often implying rebellion or treachery against an authority. Saul had repeatedly accused David of seeking to usurp his throne and plotting against him. David's statement, backed by the evidence of the robe, directly refutes these accusations, asserting that his actions are not driven by any ill will or disloyalty, but rather by respect for Saul's position and trust in God's plan. He is declaring his blamelessness in the face of Saul's unfounded persecution, emphasizing that he has committed no sin against the king.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
David's profound act of mercy and his declaration of blamelessness in 1 Samuel 24:11 powerfully prefigure the character and mission of Jesus Christ. David, though innocent, was relentlessly pursued and unjustly persecuted by Saul, yet he refused to retaliate, instead demonstrating profound restraint and respect for God's anointed. This mirrors Christ, the ultimate innocent one, who "committed no sin, nor was deceit found in his mouth; and when he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly" ([1 Peter 2:22-23](/1_peter/2-22 "1 Peter 2:22-23 - Christ's Example of Suffering")). Just as David had the power to take Saul's life but chose not to, Jesus, possessing all divine authority, willingly laid down His life, not to save Himself, but to save humanity, even those who persecuted Him ([John 10:18](/john/10-18 "John 10:18 - No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.")). David's appeal for Saul to "know thou and see that [there is] neither evil nor transgression in mine hand" finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, whose perfect life and sacrificial death definitively prove His blamelessness and provide the only means for humanity's reconciliation with God ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.")). David's trust in divine vindication, rather than personal vengeance, points to the cross, where God's justice and mercy perfectly converged to address the ultimate "evil and transgression" of humanity.

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

1 Samuel 26:20

Now therefore, let not my blood fall to the earth before the face of the LORD: for the king of Israel is come out to seek a flea, as when one doth hunt a partridge in the mountains.

1 Samuel 23:14

¶ And David abode in the wilderness in strong holds, and remained in a mountain in the wilderness of Ziph. And Saul sought him every day, but God delivered him not into his hand.

1 Samuel 23:23

See therefore, and take knowledge of all the lurking places where he hideth himself, and come ye again to me with the certainty, and I will go with you: and it shall come to pass, if he be in the land, that I will search him out throughout all the thousands of Judah.

1 Samuel 26:18

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

2 Kings 5:13

And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, [if] the prophet had bid thee [do some] great thing, wouldest thou not have done [it]? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean?

John 15:25

But [this cometh to pass], that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.

Job 10:16

For it increaseth. Thou huntest me as a fierce lion: and again thou shewest thyself marvellous upon me.