TRV
Translation
King James Version
David also arose afterward, and went out of the cave, and cried after Saul, saying, My lord the king. And when Saul looked behind him, David stooped with his face to the earth, and bowed himself.
KJV (with Strong's)
Complete Jewish Bible
Then David too got up and went outside the cave, where he called after Sha'ul, "My lord the king!" When Sha'ul looked behind him, David bowed with his face to the ground and prostrated himself.
Berean Standard Bible
After that, David got up, went out of the cave, and called out to Saul, “My lord the king!” When Saul looked behind him, David bowed facedown in reverence
American Standard Version
David also arose afterward, and went out of the cave, and cried after Saul, saying, My lord the king. And when Saul looked behind him, David bowed with his face to the earth, and did obeisance.
World English Bible Messianic
David also arose afterward, and went out of the cave, and cried after Saul, saying, “My lord the king!” When Saul looked behind him, David bowed with his face to the earth, and showed respect.
Geneva Bible (1599)
So Dauid ouercame his seruants with these words, and suffered them not to arise against Saul: so Saul rose vp out of the caue and went away.
Young's Literal Translation
and David riseth afterwards, and goeth out from the cave, and calleth after Saul, saying, `My lord, O king!' And Saul looketh attentively behind him, and David boweth--face to the earth--and doth obeisance.
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Commentary on 1 Samuel 24 verses 1–8
1 ¶ And it came to pass, when Saul was returned from following the Philistines, that it was told him, saying, Behold, David is in the wilderness of Engedi.
2 Then Saul took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and went to seek David and his men upon the rocks of the wild goats.
3 And he came to the sheepcotes by the way, where was a cave; and Saul went in to cover his feet: and David and his men remained in the sides of the cave.
4 And the men of David said unto him, Behold the day of which the LORD said unto thee, Behold, I will deliver thine enemy into thine hand, that thou mayest do to him as it shall seem good unto thee. Then David arose, and cut off the skirt of Saul's robe privily.
5 And it came to pass afterward, that David's heart smote him, because he had cut off Saul's skirt.
6 And he said unto his men, 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.
7 So David stayed his servants with these words, and suffered them not to rise against Saul. But Saul rose up out of the cave, and went on his way.
8 David also arose afterward, and went out of the cave, and cried after Saul, saying, My lord the king. And when Saul looked behind him, David stooped with his face to the earth, and bowed himself.
Here, I. Saul renews his pursuit of David, Sa1 24:1, Sa1 24:2. No sooner had he come home safely from chasing the Philistines, in which it should seem he had good success, than he enquired after David to do him a mischief, and resolved to have another thrust at him, as if he had been delivered to do all these abominations, Jer 7:10. By the frequent incursions of the Philistines, he might have seen how necessary it was to recall David from his banishment and restore him to his place in the army again; but so far is he from doing this that now more than ever he is exasperated against him, and, hearing that he is in the wilderness of En-gedi, he draws out 3000 choice men, and goes with them at his feet in pursuit of him upon the rocks of the wild goats, where, one would think, David should not have been envied a habitation nor Saul desirous of disturbing him; for what harm could he fear from one who was no better accommodated? But it is not enough for Saul that David is thus cooped up; he cannot be easy while he is alive.
II. Providence brings Saul alone into the same cave wherein David and his men had hidden themselves, Sa1 24:3. In those countries there were very large caves in the sides of the rocks or mountains, partly natural, but probably much enlarged by art for the sheltering of sheep from the heat of the sun; hence we read of places where the flocks did rest at noon (Sol 1:7), and this cave seems to be spoken of as one of the sheep-cotes. In the sides of this cave David and his men remained, perhaps not all his men, the whole 600, but only some few of his particular friends, the rest being disposed of in similar retirements. Saul, passing by, turned in himself alone, not in search of David (for, supposing him to be an aspiring ambitious man, he thought to find him rather climbing with the wild goats upon the rocks than retiring with the sheep into a cave), but thither he turned aside to cover his feet, that is, to sleep awhile, it being a cool and quiet place, and very refreshing in the heat of the day; probably he ordered his attendants to march before, reserving only a very few to wait for him at the mouth of the cave. Some by the covering of the feet understand the easing of nature, and think that this was Saul's errand into the cave: but the former interpretation is more probable.
III. David's servants stir him up to kill Saul now that he has so fair an opportunity to do it, Sa1 24:4. They reminded him that this was the day which he had long looked for, and of which God had spoken to him in general when he was anointed to the kingdom, which should put a period to his troubles and open the passage to his advancement. Saul now lay at his mercy, and it was easy to imagine how little mercy he would find with Saul and therefore what little reason he had to show mercy to him. "By all means" (say his servants) "give him the fatal blow now." See how apt we are to misunderstand, 1. The promises of God. God had assured David that he would deliver him from Saul, and his men interpret this as a warrant to destroy Saul. 2. The providences of God. Because it was now in his power to kill him, they concluded he might lawfully do it.
IV. David cut off the skirt of his robe, but soon repented that he had done this: His heart smote him for it (Sa1 24:5); though it did Saul no real hurt, and served David for a proof that it was in his power to have killed him (Sa1 24:11), yet, because it was an affront to Saul's royal dignity, he wished he had not done it. Note, It is a good thing to have a heart within us smiting us for sins that seem little; it is a sign that conscience is awake and tender, and will be the means of preventing greater sins.
V. He reasons strongly both with himself and with his servants against doing Saul any hurt. 1. He reasons with himself (Sa1 24:6): The Lord forbid that I should do this thing. Note, Sin is a thing which it becomes us to startle at, and to resist the temptations to, not only with resolution, but with a holy indignation. He considered Saul now, not as his enemy, and the only person that stood in the way of his preferment (for then he would be induced to hearken to the temptation), but as God's anointed (that is, the person whom God had appointed to reign as long as he lived, and who, as such, was under the particular protection of the divine law), and as his master, to whom he was obliged to be faithful. Let servants and subjects learn hence to be dutiful and loyal, whatever hardships are put upon them, Pe1 2:18. 2. He reasons with his servants: He suffered them not to rise against Saul, Sa1 24:7. He would not only not do this evil thing himself, but he would not suffer those about him to do it. Thus did he render good for evil to him from whom he had received evil for good, and was herein both a type of Christ, who saved his persecutors, and an example to all Christians not to be overcome of evil, but to overcome evil with good.
VI. He followed Saul out of the cave, and, though he would not take the opportunity to slay him, yet he wisely took the opportunity, if possible, to slay his enmity, by convincing him that he was not such a man as he took him for. 1. Even in showing his head now he testified that he had an honourable opinion of Saul. He had too much reason to believe that, let him say what he would, Saul would immediately be the death of him as soon as he saw him, and yet he bravely lays aside that jealousy, and thinks Saul so much a man of sense as to hear his reasoning when he had so much to say in his own vindication and such fresh and sensible proofs to give of his own integrity. 2. His behaviour was very respectful: He stooped with his face to the earth, and bowed himself, giving honour to whom honour was due, and teaching us to order ourselves lowly and reverently to all our superiors, even to those that have been most injurious to us.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–8. Public domain.
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Gregory of NyssaAD 395
ON THE INSCRIPTIONS OF THE PSALMS 2.14.229-30
Saul, therefore, came out of the cave unaware of what had happened, wearing the little garment which had been trimmed all around. David came out behind him in self-assurance, and having seized the hill lying above the cave in advance, held out the end [of Saul’s robe] in his hand. This was nothing other than a bloodless trophy against his enemies. And he cried out to Saul in a loud voice and told him about this new and marvelous heroism, which was unstained by the defilement of blood, in which the hero was victorious and the one defeated was saved from death. For David’s excellence is not attested in the fall of his enemy, but the superiority of his power is made clearer in the salvation of his opponent from danger. He had such an excess of confidence that he did not think that his own salvation lay in the destruction of those arrayed against him, but even when those who plotted against him survived he was confident that no one would harm him.But the Word teaches rather by this story that the one who excels in virtue does not fight bravely against those of his own race but fights against the passions. The anger in both men, then, was destroyed by such excellence as David had, in the one, when he destroyed his own wrath by means of reason and quenched the urge to take vengeance, and in the other, when Saul put to death his evil against David because of the clemency which he had experienced. For one can learn from the story itself the kind of things Saul uttered afterwards to the victor when he was submerged in shame for what he had undertaken and demonstrated his spontaneous turning away from evil by his lament and tears.
John ChrysostomAD 407
HOMILIES ON DAVID AND SAUL 3
So what did David reply? “Your servant, my lord the king.” A contest and rivalry then developed as to which one would pay greater respect to the other: one admitted the other to kinship, the other called him lord. What he means is something like this: I am interested in one thing only, your welfare and the progress of virtue. You called me child, and I love and am fond of you if you have me as a servant, provided you set aside your resentment, provided you do not suspect me of any evil or think me to be scheming and warring against you. He fulfilled that apostolic law, note, that bids us excel ourselves in showing one another honor, unlike the general run of people, whose disposition is worse than beasts’ and who cannot bear to be the first to greet their neighbor, having the view that they are shamed and insulted if they share a mere greeting with someone.
John ChrysostomAD 407
HOMILIES ON DAVID AND SAUL 2
When he had offered this excellent sacrifice, then, achieved the victory and omitted nothing needed for a trophy, the cause of the problem, Saul, arose and left the cave, all unaware of what had gone on. “David also left behind him,” looking in the direction of heaven with eyes now free of concern, and more satisfied on that occasion than when he had overthrown Goliath and cut off the savage’s head. It was, in fact, a more conspicuous victory than the former one, the spoils more majestic, the booty more glorious, the trophy more commendable. In the former case he needed a sling, stones and battle line, whereas in this case thought counted for everything, the victory was achieved without weapons, and the trophy was erected without blood being spilt. He returned, therefore, bearing not a savage’s head but resentment mortified and rage unnerved—spoils he deposited not in Jerusalem but in heaven and the city on high.
BedeAD 735
Commentary on Samuel
And bowing himself, David prostrated on the ground and worshiped. The Savior, with his compassionate heart, bowed down to help and aid earthly and weak hearts, showing through the ministers of His word, He Himself first presented examples of worship and reconciliation with God to those who had already offended Him long ago. He said to the people of the Jews through the heralds of the Gospel: "Why do you listen to the words of human wisdom, of the Scribes and Pharisees speaking: Jesus seeks harm against you; if we let Him go on like this, everyone will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation" (John 11). Behold, at the time of My passion with so many miracles appearing, whoever could truly see, saw in you that the Lord had delivered you into My power, since at a single gentle word of My response when I said, "I am He," such a large armed band fell trembling, and when I was crucified, an unusual darkness covered the whole sky at midday; when I gave up My spirit, the whole earth was moved, rocks were split, tombs were opened, and countless bodies of the dead were raised. Finally, at the appearance of an angel testifying to My resurrection, an immense earthquake occurred, and your guards were stunned and became like the dead. And indeed I thought that if you did not repent, I would destroy you; but patient regard of My compassion spared you, favoring that through penance you might deserve pardon and salvation. For I said: I will not strike completely, nor will I remove from the midst the people, although sinful and hostile to Me, from which I received the form of a servant, in which I would win back the whole world; which in the fathers long ago divine generosity imbued with the blessing of singular grace.
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
This verse marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of David and Saul, capturing David's extraordinary act of humility and reverence after sparing Saul's life in the cave of Engedi. Emerging from concealment, David courageously addresses Saul, not with accusation or defiance, but with profound respect, acknowledging Saul's royal authority. His subsequent act of prostration demonstrates deep submission and unwavering deference to God's anointed king, despite Saul's relentless and unjust persecution, setting the stage for a dramatic and emotionally charged encounter.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The narrative of 1 Samuel 24:8 is rich with literary devices that amplify its theological and dramatic impact. Dramatic Irony is powerfully at play, as Saul is completely unaware that David had just held his life in his hands within the cave (1 Samuel 24:4-7). David's subsequent act of profound respect and submission is thus rendered even more striking against the backdrop of Saul's ignorance and his murderous intent. The act of "stooping with his face to the earth, and bowed himself" serves as potent Symbolism, representing not only David's personal humility but also his unwavering respect for the divine institution of kingship, even when embodied by a flawed ruler. This gesture visually communicates David's non-aggression and his trust in God's timing rather than human force. Furthermore, the entire scene presents a stark Contrast between David's righteous character—marked by self-control, humility, and reverence—and Saul's unrighteous character, defined by paranoia, vengefulness, and a disregard for God's will. This contrast highlights David's fitness for kingship, not through military might or political maneuvering, but through moral and spiritual integrity.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound humility and respect displayed by David in 1 Samuel 24:8 carry significant theological weight. David's actions underscore the biblical principle of respecting God-ordained authority, even when that authority is exercised unjustly or abusively. His refusal to harm "the LORD's anointed" (1 Samuel 24:6) and his subsequent public display of deference illustrate a deep trust in God's sovereign control over human affairs and His ultimate justice. David understood that vengeance belonged to God, and that God would establish His chosen king in His own time and way. This passage challenges believers to consider their posture towards those in authority, recognizing that all power is ultimately permitted by divine providence, and that true spiritual strength often lies in humility and patient endurance rather than retaliation or self-vindication.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's actions in 1 Samuel 24:8 offer a compelling model for believers navigating difficult relationships and unjust circumstances. In a world that often encourages self-assertion, retaliation, and the pursuit of personal advantage, David's humility and unwavering respect for Saul's office, despite Saul's malevolent intent, stand as a powerful counter-cultural witness. This passage calls us to examine our own hearts: do we truly trust God to vindicate us and establish His purposes, or do we succumb to the temptation to take matters into our own hands? David's example teaches us that true strength is found not in wielding power for personal gain or revenge, but in humble submission to God's will, patiently waiting for His perfect timing and justice. It challenges us to extend grace and respect even to those who may be our adversaries, recognizing that our ultimate allegiance is to God and His principles of righteousness, and that our character in the face of injustice speaks volumes about our faith.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did David bow so deeply to Saul, given that David was God's chosen king?
Answer: David's deep bow, or prostration, was a deliberate and profound gesture of respect for the office of king, even though Saul himself was acting unjustly. David understood that Saul was still "the LORD's anointed" (1 Samuel 24:6), and therefore, his authority, though flawed, was divinely permitted. This act was not an endorsement of Saul's character or actions, but a demonstration of David's own humility, his non-aggressive intent, and his trust that God would remove Saul and establish him as king in His own perfect timing, without David needing to resort to violence or usurpation. It was a testament to David's character and his commitment to God's ways, rather than human ambition.
Did David's act of humility change Saul's heart permanently?
Answer: While David's profound act of humility and his subsequent words (1 Samuel 24:9-15) deeply moved Saul, leading him to acknowledge David's righteousness and even weep (1 Samuel 24:16-17), this change was not permanent. Saul's paranoia and jealousy were deeply ingrained, and he would later resume his pursuit of David (1 Samuel 26:1-2). This episode highlights the fleeting nature of human repentance when it is not rooted in a true transformation of the heart, and the persistent struggle against deeply entrenched sin, even in the face of overwhelming grace.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
David's extraordinary humility, non-retaliation, and submission to God-ordained authority in 1 Samuel 24:8 powerfully foreshadow the ultimate example of these virtues found in Jesus Christ. Like David, Jesus, though the rightful King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16), did not seize His throne through force or human means. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant (Philippians 2:7), and humbly submitted to the will of His Father, even to the point of death on a cross (Philippians 2:8). When unjustly accused and persecuted, Jesus did not retaliate but "opened not his mouth" (Isaiah 53:7), entrusting Himself to Him who judges justly (1 Peter 2:23). David's reverence for Saul as "the LORD's anointed" finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ's perfect submission to the Father's plan, demonstrating that true divine kingship is established not through human power struggles, but through radical humility, sacrificial love, and obedience to God's sovereign will, leading to His ultimate exaltation (Philippians 2:9-11).