1 Samuel 24:18

KJV

And thou hast shewed this day how that thou hast dealt well with me: forasmuch as when the LORD had delivered me into thine hand, thou killedst me not.

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou hast shewed {H5046} this day {H3117} how that thou hast dealt {H6213} well {H2896} with me: forasmuch as when the LORD {H3068} had delivered {H5462} me into thine hand {H3027}, thou killedst {H2026} me not.

Complete Jewish Bible

You have made it clear to me today that you have done me good; for when ADONAI put my fate in your hands, you didn't kill me.

Berean Standard Bible

And you have shown this day how well you have dealt with me; for when the LORD delivered me into your hand, you did not kill me.

American Standard Version

And thou hast declared this day how that thou hast dealt well with me, forasmuch as when Jehovah had delivered me up into thy hand, thou killedst me not.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 24:18 records King Saul's astonished and temporary acknowledgment of David's profound mercy and righteousness. In this critical moment, Saul confesses that David, despite being given a clear divine opportunity to take Saul's life in the cave of En-gedi, chose instead to spare him. This act demonstrated an integrity, a reverence for God's anointed, and a trust in divine timing that transcended personal vengeance. The verse powerfully highlights David's exemplary character and God's sovereign hand orchestrating the complex drama between the reigning king and his divinely chosen successor.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the dramatic culmination of David's extraordinary act of restraint in the cave of En-gedi, vividly narrated in [1 Samuel 24](/1_samuel/24 "1 Samuel 24 - David Spares Saul's Life"). Saul, consumed by a relentless and irrational pursuit to kill David, unknowingly entered the very cave where David and his loyal men were hiding. David's men, interpreting the situation as a direct divine intervention, urged him to seize the moment and eliminate his persecutor ([1 Samuel 24:4](/1_samuel/24-4 "1 Samuel 24:4 - David's Men Urge David to Act")). However, David firmly refused, articulating his profound reverence for "the LORD's anointed" and declaring that he would not "stretch forth [his] hand against him" ([1 Samuel 24:6](/1_samuel/24-6 "1 Samuel 24:6 - David Refuses to Harm Saul")). Instead, David merely cut off a corner of Saul's robe, a symbolic act demonstrating his proximity and power over the king without inflicting harm ([1 Samuel 24:4](/1_samuel/24-4 "1 Samuel 24:4 - David Cuts Saul's Robe")). Following this, David called out to Saul, revealing his presence and displaying the severed cloth as irrefutable evidence of his mercy. Saul's words in [1 Samuel 24:18](/1_samuel/24-18 "1 Samuel 24:18 - Saul's Confession to David") are a direct, bewildered response to David's powerful display of self-control, respect, and non-retaliation, leading to a rare, albeit fleeting, moment of clarity and remorse from the tormented king.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of Saul's reign was characterized by his increasing paranoia, deep-seated jealousy, and relentless hostility towards David, whom God had sovereignly chosen and anointed to succeed him ([1 Samuel 16:13](/1_samuel/16-13 "1 Samuel 16:13 - David Anointed King")). Culturally, the concept of "the LORD's anointed" (Hebrew: *mashiach*) carried immense theological and political weight. To lay hands on the king, even a disobedient or wicked one, was widely perceived as an offense against God Himself, given that the king's authority was divinely ordained. Vengeance was a common and often expected response in ancient Near Eastern societies when one's life or honor was threatened. David's act of mercy, therefore, transcended mere personal choice; it was a profound theological statement, demonstrating his unwavering adherence to divine principles over human custom, personal gain, or even self-preservation. Geographically, the wilderness of En-gedi was a rugged, arid, and desolate region along the Dead Sea, renowned for its numerous caves, which provided ideal hiding places for David and his loyal band of men as they fled Saul's relentless pursuit.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Samuel 24:18](/1_samuel/24-18 "1 Samuel 24:18 - Saul's Confession to David") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the broader narrative of the book of Samuel. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Mercy Over Vengeance**. David's resolute refusal to harm Saul, despite Saul's malicious pursuit and the undeniable opportunity, stands in stark contrast to the prevailing cultural norms and Saul's own vengeful actions. This act foreshadows a higher ethic of responding to evil with good, a principle later expounded and commanded in the New Testament (e.g., [Romans 12:19-21](/romans/12-19-21 "Romans 12:19-21 - Do Not Avenge Yourselves")). Secondly, the verse underscores **God's Sovereignty**. Saul's admission, "when the LORD had delivered me into thine hand," is a direct acknowledgment that God, not mere chance or human cunning, had placed him in a position of extreme vulnerability. This highlights divine providence in the unfolding events, even in moments of peril and intense human conflict, emphasizing that God is actively involved in the affairs of His people and their leaders. Finally, David's actions in this chapter, culminating in Saul's confession, exemplify his **Integrity and Righteousness**. David's unshakeable faith that God would ultimately deliver him and establish His chosen king allowed him to wait patiently on the Lord's timing rather than taking matters into his own hands, even when provoked to violence. This demonstrates a deep respect for God's anointing and His ultimate, perfect plan.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Shewed (Hebrew, _nâgad'_):** From the primitive root H5046 (nâgad), meaning "to front, i.e. stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to one present); specifically, to expose, predict, explain, praise." Saul's statement acknowledges that David's actions did not merely tell but *demonstrated* or *revealed* his good character in a tangible, undeniable way. It implies a public or evident disclosure of David's true nature.
* **Well (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** From H2896 (ṭôwb), meaning "good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun... encompasses moral goodness, kindness, and beneficial action." When Saul says David "dealt well" with him, he is confessing that David acted righteously, kindly, and beneficially towards him. This stands in direct contradiction to Saul's own malicious intent and actions, serving as an admission that David's conduct was fundamentally "good" in both human and divine terms.
* **Delivered (Hebrew, _çâgar'_):** From the primitive root H5462 (çâgar), meaning "to shut up; figuratively, to surrender; close up, deliver (up), give over (up)." Saul's choice of this word is crucial. He recognizes that his life was literally "given over" or "surrendered" into David's hands by the LORD. This is not an accident or a stroke of luck for David; it is a divine act of providence, an acknowledgment of God's active involvement in the situation, even to Saul's own peril, highlighting God's sovereign control over circumstances.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou hast shewed this day how that thou hast dealt well with me:"** Saul begins by directly addressing David, acknowledging that David's actions *on this very day* (referring to the cave incident) have undeniably *demonstrated* or *revealed* his good and righteous character. The phrase "dealt well with me" is a profound confession, admitting that David, the very man Saul sought to destroy, acted with kindness, integrity, and moral uprightness towards him. It starkly underscores the contrast between David's conduct and Saul's own.
* **"forasmuch as when the LORD had delivered me into thine hand,"** This clause provides the foundational reason for Saul's confession. Saul recognizes and explicitly states that the extraordinary opportunity for David to kill him was not a random occurrence but a direct, intentional divine act. The phrase "the LORD had delivered me into thine hand" is a clear admission of God's sovereignty. Saul understands that God had intentionally placed him in a position of extreme vulnerability, entirely at David's mercy, thereby testing David's character and unmistakably revealing God's active hand in the unfolding events.
* **"thou killedst me not."** This is the stark, undeniable fact that underpins Saul's entire confession and astonishment. Despite being given the ultimate power over his enemy's life by divine providence, David chose not to exercise it. This act of profound restraint, of refusing to take vengeance or seize power through violence, is what astounds Saul and compels his confession of David's righteousness. It highlights David's deep and abiding respect for God's anointing on Saul, even when that anointing was being used to persecute and threaten his own life.

#### Literary Devices
The passage in [1 Samuel 24](/1_samuel/24 "1 Samuel 24 - David Spares Saul") and specifically [verse 18](/1_samuel/24-18 "1 Samuel 24:18 - Saul's Confession") is rich with literary devices that amplify its theological impact. **Irony** is profoundly prominent, as Saul, the powerful king relentlessly hunting David, unknowingly enters the very cave where David, his perceived prey, is hiding, thus becoming utterly vulnerable to the one he seeks to destroy. This dramatic reversal of roles underscores the divine hand at play, demonstrating God's control over human circumstances. There is also a powerful instance of **Confession**, as Saul, typically consumed by jealousy and hardened in his malicious pursuit, is momentarily broken and forced to acknowledge David's superior righteousness and divine favor. This represents a rare moment of truth and humility from the tormented king. Furthermore, the narrative employs stark **Contrast** between David's merciful, God-fearing actions and Saul's vengeful, disobedient, and self-serving behavior, highlighting the profound moral and spiritual chasm between the two men. David's act of cutting the corner of Saul's robe, rather than taking Saul's life, serves as a powerful **Symbolism** of David's restraint and his respect for the sacred office of the king, even as it subtly signals the symbolic "cutting off" of Saul's kingdom and the transfer of divine favor.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Saul's confession in [1 Samuel 24:18](/1_samuel/24-18 "1 Samuel 24:18 - Saul's Confession to David") is a profound theological statement, affirming that true righteousness is demonstrated not merely by adherence to law, but by extraordinary acts of mercy and self-restraint, particularly when one holds power over an adversary. David's actions exemplify a foundational divine principle: that God's people are called to trust in His justice and timing rather than seeking personal vengeance or seizing opportunities for self-advancement through ungodly means. Saul's explicit acknowledgment that "the LORD had delivered me into thine hand" underscores God's active sovereignty in human affairs, even in the most perilous and personal conflicts. It teaches that God orchestrates circumstances to reveal character, to test faith, and ultimately to advance His purposes, often through unexpected acts of grace that confound human expectations. David's refusal to harm the Lord's anointed, despite immense personal suffering and provocation, sets an exceptionally high standard for respecting divine authority and patiently waiting for God to execute His judgment and establish His chosen ones in His perfect way.

* [Proverbs 25:21-22](/proverbs/25-21-22 "Proverbs 25:21-22 - Feed Your Enemy")
* [Matthew 5:44](/matthew/5-44 "Matthew 5:44 - Love Your Enemies")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance Belongs to God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Samuel 24:18](/1_samuel/24-18 "1 Samuel 24:18 - Saul's Confession to David") offers powerful and enduring lessons for believers today, challenging us to embody a radical Christ-like character in the face of adversity, injustice, and personal attacks. David's deliberate decision not to harm Saul, despite having every human justification and a clear opportunity to end his persecution, calls us to prioritize mercy over vengeance, even when we are deeply wronged or unjustly persecuted. It serves as a potent reminder that our integrity, especially in moments when no one else is watching or when we could easily take matters into our own hands without immediate consequence, speaks volumes about the authenticity and depth of our faith. When we choose to trust God's timing and His perfect justice, rather than seeking immediate retribution or personal gain through ungodly means, we demonstrate a profound reliance on His sovereignty and a true submission to His will. This passage encourages us to deeply reflect on how we respond to those who hurt us, prompting us to consider if our actions truly reflect the character of God, who is rich in mercy, abounding in steadfast love, and slow to anger. It is a compelling call to live out our faith by demonstrating grace, even to our enemies, believing with unwavering conviction that God will ultimately vindicate the righteous and fulfill His promises in His perfect way and time.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to take matters into your own hands rather than trusting God's timing and justice?**
* **How does David's act of mercy challenge your natural inclination to seek revenge or retribution when wronged or persecuted?**
* **What does it truly mean to "deal well" with someone who has dealt poorly with you, and how can you practically apply this principle in your relationships today?**
* **How does recognizing God's sovereignty in difficult and painful situations empower you to respond with grace, patience, and faith rather than anger, fear, or despair?**

### FAQ

**Was Saul's confession in 1 Samuel 24:18 a sign of true repentance?**

Answer: While Saul's confession in [1 Samuel 24:18](/1_samuel/24-18 "1 Samuel 24:18 - Saul's Confession to David") appears sincere and filled with profound remorse in the moment, the broader narrative of 1 Samuel strongly suggests it was a temporary emotional response rather than a lasting, transformative change of heart. Immediately after this encounter, Saul weeps and acknowledges David's righteousness ([1 Samuel 24:16-17](/1_samuel/24-16-17 "1 Samuel 24:16-17 - Saul Weeps and Acknowledges David")), and even prophesies David's future kingship ([1 Samuel 24:20](/1_samuel/24-20 "1 Samuel 24:20 - Saul's Prophecy of David's Kingship")). However, Saul soon reverts to his old patterns of jealousy, paranoia, and relentless pursuit, as vividly seen in [1 Samuel 26](/1_samuel/26 "1 Samuel 26 - David Again Spares Saul's Life"), where David again has an opportunity to kill him but spares him once more. True biblical repentance involves a fundamental turning away from sin, a sustained change in behavior, and a consistent alignment with God's will, which Saul consistently failed to demonstrate throughout his reign. His confessions were often fleeting, driven by the immediate impact of David's righteous actions, but not deep enough to fundamentally transform his character or alter his destructive path.

**Why was it so important for David not to kill Saul, even though Saul was trying to kill him?**

Answer: David's resolute refusal to kill Saul, despite multiple clear opportunities and immense personal provocation, was rooted in his profound reverence for God's anointing. Saul, though disobedient, tormented by an evil spirit, and actively seeking David's life, was still "the LORD's anointed" ([1 Samuel 24:6](/1_samuel/24-6 "1 Samuel 24:6 - David Refuses to Harm Saul")). David understood that God Himself had placed Saul on the throne, and therefore, to remove him by human hand would be an act of rebellion against God's sovereign will and established order. David chose to trust God to remove Saul in His own perfect time and way, rather than seizing power through violence or political maneuvering. This demonstrated David's deep faith, his unwavering integrity, and his commitment to God's divine plan and timing. It also powerfully set him apart from other leaders of his time who would readily eliminate rivals to secure power. David's actions showed that his claim to the throne was not based on human ambition or force, but on divine appointment and a patient, humble trust in God's overarching plan ([1 Samuel 16:1-13](/1_samuel/16 "1 Samuel 16 - Samuel Anoints David")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 Samuel 24:18](/1_samuel/24-18 "1 Samuel 24:18 - Saul's Confession to David") finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest theological meaning in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. David's extraordinary act of mercy towards Saul, his relentless persecutor, serves as a poignant foreshadowing of the perfect and ultimate mercy of Christ. While David spared the life of an earthly king who sought to destroy him, Jesus, the true and eternal King, willingly laid down His own life for His enemies—for humanity, who were spiritually dead and actively hostile towards God ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - Christ Died for Us")). David's refusal to take vengeance, even when "the LORD had delivered" his enemy into his hand, powerfully points to Christ's unparalleled submission to the Father's will, even unto death on the cross, trusting God for His vindication and ultimate triumph ([Philippians 2:8-9](/philippians/2-8-9 "Philippians 2:8-9 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")). Saul's confession of David's righteousness, compelled by David's undeniable goodness and restraint, mirrors how the world, through Christ's perfect life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection, is confronted with the absolute righteousness and holiness of God. Jesus, as the greater David, did not come to condemn the world but to save it ([John 3:17](/john/3-17 "John 3:17 - Jesus Did Not Come to Condemn")), offering forgiveness and eternal life even to those who nailed Him to the cross ([Luke 23:34](/luke/23-34 "Luke 23:34 - Jesus Forgives His Executioners")). Thus, David's mercy in the cave, a profound act of grace in the face of injustice, is a beautiful shadow of the immeasurable grace and redemptive love demonstrated by the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), offering salvation to all who believe.

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 26:23

The LORD render to every man his righteousness and his faithfulness: for the LORD delivered thee into [my] hand to day, but I would not stretch forth mine hand against the LORD'S anointed.

Psalms 31:8

And hast not shut me up into the hand of the enemy: thou hast set my feet in a large room.

1 Samuel 26:8

Then said Abishai to David, God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day: now therefore let me smite him, I pray thee, with the spear even to the earth at once, and I will not [smite] him the second time.

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.

1 Samuel 23:7

¶ And it was told Saul that David was come to Keilah. And Saul said, God hath delivered him into mine hand; for he is shut in, by entering into a town that hath gates and bars.

1 Samuel 24:10

Behold, this day thine eyes have seen how that the LORD had delivered thee to day into mine hand in the cave: and [some] bade [me] kill thee: but [mine eye] spared thee; and I said, I will not put forth mine hand against my lord; for he [is] the LORD'S anointed.