TRV
Translation
King James Version
Swear now therefore unto me by the LORD, that thou wilt not cut off my seed after me, and that thou wilt not destroy my name out of my father's house.
Complete Jewish Bible
So swear to me by ADONAI that you will not kill my descendants after I die or blot out my name from my father's family."
Berean Standard Bible
So now, swear to me by the LORD that you will not cut off my descendants or wipe out my name from my father’s house.”
American Standard Version
Swear now therefore unto me by Jehovah, that thou wilt not cut off my seed after me, and that thou wilt not destroy my name out of my father’s house.
World English Bible Messianic
Swear now therefore to me by the LORD, that you will not cut off my seed after me, and that you will not destroy my name out of my father’s house.”
Geneva Bible (1599)
For now behold, I know that thou shalt be King, and that the kingdome of Israel shall be stablished in thine hand.
Young's Literal Translation
and, now, swear to me by Jehovah--thou dost not cut off my seed after me, nor dost thou destroy my name from the house of my father.'
See also
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In the KJVVerse 7,861 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on 1 Samuel 24 verses 16–22
16 ¶ And it came to pass, when David had made an end of speaking these words unto Saul, that Saul said, Is this thy voice, my son David? And Saul lifted up his voice, and wept.
17 And he said to David, Thou art more righteous than I: for thou hast rewarded me good, whereas I have rewarded thee evil.
18 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.
19 For if a man find his enemy, will he let him go well away? wherefore the LORD reward thee good for that thou hast done unto me this day.
20 And now, behold, I know well that thou shalt surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel shall be established in thine hand.
21 Swear now therefore unto me by the LORD, that thou wilt not cut off my seed after me, and that thou wilt not destroy my name out of my father's house.
22 And David sware unto Saul. And Saul went home; but David and his men gat them up unto the hold.
Here we have,
I. Saul's penitent reply to David's speech. It was strange that he had patience to hear him out, considering how outrageous he was against him, and how cutting David's discourse was. But God restrained him and his men; and we may suppose Saul struck with amazement at the singularity of the event, and much more when he found how much he had lain at David's mercy. His heart must have been harder than a stone if this had not affected him. 1. He melted into tears, and we will not suppose them to have been counterfeit but real expressions of his present concern at the sight of his own iniquity, so plainly proved upon him. He speaks as one quite overcome with David's kindness: Is this thy voice, my son David? And, as one that relented at the thought of his own folly and ingratitude, he lifted up his voice and wept, Sa1 24:16. Many mourn for their sins that do not truly repent of them, weep bitterly for them, and yet continue in love and league with them. 2. He ingenuously acknowledges David's integrity and his own iniquity (Sa1 24:17): Thou art more righteous than I. Now God made good to David that word on which he had caused him to hope, that he would bring forth his righteousness as the light, Psa 37:6. Those who take care to keep a good conscience may leave it to God to secure them the credit of it. This fair confession was enough to prove David innocent (even his enemy himself being judge), but not enough to prove Saul himself a true penitent. He should have said, Thou are righteous, but I am wicked; but the utmost he will own is this: Thou art more righteous than I. Bad men will commonly go no further than this in their confessions; they will own they are not so good as some others are; there are those that are better than they, and more righteous. He now owns himself under a mistake concerning David (Sa1 24:18): "Thou hast shown this day that thou art so far from seeking my hurt that thou hast dealt well with me." We are too apt to suspect others to be worse affected towards us then really they are, and than perhaps they are proved to be; and when, afterwards, our mistake is discovered, we should be forward to recall our suspicions, as Saul does here. 3. He prays God to recompense David for this his generous kindness to him. He owns that David's sparing him, when he had him in his power, was an uncommon and unparalleled instance of tenderness to an enemy; no man would have done the like; and therefore, either because he thought himself not able to give him a full recompence for so great a favour, or because he found himself not inclined to give him any recompence at all, he turns him over to God for his pay: The Lord reward thee good, Sa1 24:19. Poor beggars can do no less than pray for their benefactors, and Saul did no more. 4. He prophesies his advancement to the throne (Sa1 24:20): I know well that thou shalt surely be king. He knew it before, by the promise Samuel had made him of it compared with the excellent spirit that appeared in David, which highly aggravated his sin and folly in persecuting him as he did; he had as much reason to say concerning David as David concerning him, How can I put forth my hand against the Lord's anointed? But now he knew it by the interest he found David had in the people, the special providence of God in protecting him, and the generous kingly spirit he had now given a proof of in sparing his enemy. Now he knew it, that is, now that he was in a good temper he was willing to own that he knew it and to submit to the conviction of it. Note, Sooner or later, God will force even those that are of the synagogue of Satan to know and own those that he has loved, and to worship before their feet; for so is the promise, Rev 3:9. This acknowledgement which Saul made of David's incontestable title to the crown was a great encouragement to David himself and a support to his faith and hope. 5. He binds David with an oath hereafter to show the same tenderness of his seed and of his name as he had now shown of his person, Sa1 24:21. David had more reason to oblige Saul by an oath that he would not destroy him, yet he insists not on that (if the laws of justice and honour would not bind him, an oath would not), but Saul knew David to be a conscientious man, and would think his interests safe if he could get them secured by his oath. Saul by his disobedience had ruined his own soul, and never took care by repentance to prevent that ruin, and yet is very solicitous that his name might not be destroyed nor his seed cut off. However, David swore unto him, Sa1 24:22. Though he might be tempted, not only in revenge, but in prudence, to extirpate Saul's family, yet he binds himself not to do it, knowing that God could and would establish the kingdom to him and his, without the use of such bloody methods. This oath he afterwards religiously observed; he supported Mephibosheth, and executed those as traitors that slew Ishbosheth. The hanging up of seven of Saul's posterity, to atone for the destruction of the Gibeonites, was God's appointment, not David's act, and therefore not the violation of this oath.
II. Their parting in peace. 1. Saul, for the present, desisted from the persecution. He went home convinced, but not converted; ashamed of his envy of David, yet retaining in his breast that root of bitterness; vexed that, when at last he had found David, he could not at that time find in his heart to destroy him, as he had designed. God has many ways to tie the hands of persecutors, when he does not turn their hearts. 2. David continued to shift for his own safety. He knew Saul too well to trust him, and therefore got him up into the hold. It is dangerous venturing upon the mercy of a reconciled enemy. We read of those who believed in Christ, and yet he did not commit himself to them because he knew all men. Those that like David are innocent as doves must thus like him be wise as serpents.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 16–22. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
1 Samuel 24:21 captures a profound and pivotal moment where King Saul, humbled and confronted by David's unwavering integrity and mercy, acknowledges David's divinely ordained destiny to rule Israel. Facing the grim reality of ancient Near Eastern succession practices, Saul implores David to swear a solemn, divinely binding oath by the LORD. This desperate plea is for David to spare his descendants and prevent the utter eradication of his family's legacy, thereby securing the survival of his lineage and averting the ultimate disgrace of his name being erased from history.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse serves as the emotional and theological climax of a dramatic encounter detailed in 1 Samuel 24. The narrative unfolds with Saul, consumed by a paranoid jealousy, relentlessly pursuing David to kill him. David, along with his men, takes refuge in a cave at En-gedi. Unbeknownst to Saul, he enters this very cave to relieve himself, placing himself entirely at David's mercy. Despite his men's urging to seize this God-given opportunity to eliminate his persecutor, David steadfastly refuses, declaring, "The LORD forbid that I should do this thing unto my master, the LORD's anointed, to stretch forth mine hand against him, seeing he is the anointed of the LORD" (1 Samuel 24:6). Instead, David merely cuts off a corner of Saul's robe. After Saul departs, David reveals himself, calling out to the king and presenting the piece of cloth as proof of his innocence and respect. This act of profound restraint and David's subsequent heartfelt appeal (1 Samuel 24:9-15) pierce through Saul's hardened heart, leading to his tearful confession and explicit acknowledgment of David's righteousness and future kingship (1 Samuel 24:16-20). Verse 21 is Saul's desperate, yet rational, request for a binding assurance from the man he now recognizes as his divinely chosen successor.
Historical & Cultural Context: The ancient Near East was a brutal political landscape where the transition of power often involved the systematic extermination of the deposed king's family. This practice, known as "cutting off the seed" or "destroying the name," was a ruthless but effective way to prevent future challenges to the throne and consolidate the new dynasty's power. Historical examples abound, such as Jehu's purge of Ahab's house in Israel (2 Kings 10:1-11) or the practices of Assyrian and Babylonian kings. Saul's fear was therefore not a personal neurosis but a well-founded apprehension rooted in the harsh realities of dynastic succession. An oath sworn "by the LORD" (YHWH) in Israelite culture was the most sacred and binding form of covenant. It invoked God as the ultimate witness and guarantor, placing the oath-taker under divine judgment if the vow was broken. Saul's insistence on such an oath underscores his desperation and his recognition of David's deep reverence for God, believing David would honor a promise made under divine sanction.
Key Themes: This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes within the book of 1 Samuel. Foremost is Divine Sovereignty and Appointment, as Saul, despite his relentless efforts to resist God's will, is ultimately compelled to acknowledge God's choice of David as the next king (1 Samuel 24:20). This highlights that God's purposes cannot be thwarted by human opposition. Secondly, David's Righteous Character and Mercy are profoundly displayed. His refusal to harm God's anointed, even when given the perfect opportunity, starkly contrasts with Saul's vengeful and ungodly pursuits (1 Samuel 24:10), demonstrating the qualities of a king after God's own heart. Thirdly, the Sanctity of Oaths and Covenants is emphasized, reflecting the deep importance of promises made before God in ancient Israelite society. Finally, the Vulnerability of Dynasties and the Significance of Legacy are underscored, illustrating the precariousness of power and the deep-seated fear of annihilation in a culture where lineage, family name, and historical memory were paramount to one's identity and honor.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The passage masterfully employs Foreshadowing and Irony. The very request for an oath foreshadows David's future reign and the eventual, though partial, fulfillment of this oath through his remarkable kindness to Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son (2 Samuel 9:1-7). There is profound Irony in Saul, the one who relentlessly sought to "cut off" David's life and destiny, now pleading with David not to "cut off" his own family's life and legacy. This dramatic reversal of roles underscores David's moral superiority, his unwavering trust in God, and God's sovereign hand in elevating the humble and bringing down the proud. The scene also utilizes Pathos, appealing powerfully to the reader's emotions through Saul's vulnerable, desperate, and tearful plea, highlighting the tragic consequences of his own disobedience, jealousy, and spiritual decline.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the theme of divine sovereignty triumphing over human opposition and the steadfastness of God's chosen. Saul, despite his relentless efforts to thwart God's plan for David, is ultimately compelled to acknowledge David's divinely appointed kingship. His desperate plea for the preservation of his lineage underscores the ancient understanding of curses and blessings tied to covenant faithfulness, and the profound fear of a name being utterly erased – a fate often reserved for those who defied God or were utterly defeated. David's subsequent oath, and his later faithfulness to it, demonstrate the sanctity of vows made before the LORD and the integrity of a leader who walks in God's ways, even towards his adversaries, reflecting the steadfast love and faithfulness of God Himself.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Saul's desperate plea in 1 Samuel 24:21 offers a powerful lens through which to examine our own fears, legacies, and responses to divine sovereignty. Saul, despite his immense power and position, was consumed by insecurity, fear of loss, and a relentless desire to control his own destiny, ultimately leading to his tragic downfall. Yet, in this moment of profound vulnerability, he is forced to acknowledge a truth he had long resisted: God's plan for David's ascendancy. For us, this serves as a profound reminder that God's purposes will ultimately prevail, regardless of human resistance, manipulation, or even our most fervent opposition. It challenges us to surrender our own agendas, anxieties, and perceived control, and to trust in His perfect timing and sovereign will, even when circumstances seem to contradict our desires or threaten our "legacy." Furthermore, David's unwavering integrity in honoring this sacred oath, even to the family of his persecutor, speaks volumes about the character God desires in His people. It calls us to extend mercy, keep our promises, and act with integrity and grace, even when it is difficult, inconvenient, or seemingly undeserved, thereby reflecting the steadfast love and faithfulness of God Himself. What "names" or "legacies" are we trying to preserve or create, and are they truly aligned with God's eternal purposes and His kingdom values?
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was it so important for Saul to have David swear an oath by the LORD?
Answer: In ancient Israelite culture, an oath sworn "by the LORD" (YHWH) was the most solemn and binding commitment one could make. It invoked God as the ultimate witness and guarantor of the promise, implying severe divine judgment upon anyone who broke it. Saul understood that David, as the divinely appointed successor, would soon possess the power to exterminate his family, a common and brutal practice in the ancient Near East to prevent rival claims to the throne and consolidate the new dynasty's power. By making David swear by the LORD, Saul sought to elevate the promise beyond a mere human agreement, placing it under divine sanction and ensuring its sacred, unbreakable nature. He was desperate to secure the survival of his "seed" (descendants) and the preservation of his "name" (legacy and memory) from being utterly destroyed, a profound fear in a culture where lineage and historical presence were paramount. David's subsequent actions, particularly his remarkable kindness to Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son (2 Samuel 9:1-7), confirm that he indeed honored this sacred vow, demonstrating his integrity before God and man.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Samuel 24:21, though rooted in the political anxieties of an ancient king, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the ultimate King, Jesus. Saul's desperate plea for the preservation of his "seed" and "name" speaks to humanity's inherent fear of annihilation and the deep-seated desire for an enduring legacy. In stark contrast to Saul's precarious and ultimately failing dynasty, God promised David an eternal "seed" and an everlasting "house" (2 Samuel 7:12-16), a covenant ultimately and perfectly fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the Son of David. Jesus, the true and eternal King, not only preserves a physical lineage but secures an eternal spiritual "seed" through His atoning work, ensuring the salvation and continuity of His people. He came not to "cut off" or "destroy" the names of His enemies, but to offer reconciliation, redemption, and adoption into His own eternal family, ensuring that the names of those who believe in Him are written in the Book of Life. While Saul feared the destruction of his earthly name and lineage, Christ offers a new name and an imperishable inheritance, guaranteeing that those who are "in Christ" will never be cut off from God's presence or His eternal kingdom (John 10:28-29). His mercy, unlike David's, is perfect, redemptive, and transformative, turning adversaries into beloved children of God and securing not just a temporary legacy but an eternal dwelling in His Father's house (John 14:2-3).