1 Samuel 25:31

KJV

That this shall be no grief unto thee, nor offence of heart unto my lord, either that thou hast shed blood causeless, or that my lord hath avenged himself: but when the LORD shall have dealt well with my lord, then remember thine handmaid.

KJV (with Strong's)

That this shall be no grief {H6330} unto thee, nor offence {H4383} of heart {H3820} unto my lord {H113}, either that thou hast shed {H8210} blood {H1818} causeless {H2600}, or that my lord {H113} hath avenged {H3467} himself: but when the LORD {H3068} shall have dealt well {H3190} with my lord {H113}, then remember {H2142} thine handmaid {H519}.

Complete Jewish Bible

what happens here will not have become an obstacle to you or a cause for remorse to my lord, neither that you shed blood without cause nor that my lord took vengeance into his own hands. Finally, when ADONAI has dealt well with my lord, then remember your servant."

Berean Standard Bible

then my lord will have no remorse or guilt of conscience over needless bloodshed and revenge. And when the LORD has dealt well with my lord, may you remember your maidservant.”

American Standard Version

that this shall be no grief unto thee, nor offence of heart unto my lord, either that thou hast shed blood without cause, or that my lord hath avenged himself. And when Jehovah shall have dealt well with my lord, then remember thy handmaid.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 25:31 captures Abigail's profound and divinely inspired plea to David, aiming to avert his rash vengeance against Nabal and his household. Her words shrewdly appeal to David's conscience, urging him to avoid future regret and guilt over shedding innocent blood or taking personal revenge. Crucially, Abigail anticipates David's destined kingship, reminding him of his higher calling and implicitly trusting God to administer justice, while humbly requesting to be remembered when the Lord establishes David's reign. This verse encapsulates Abigail's wisdom, foresight, and strategic humility in preventing a grave sin and preserving David's integrity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the climax of Abigail's eloquent and courageous intervention in 1 Samuel 25. David, a fugitive from Saul, had protected Nabal's shepherds in the wilderness, expecting a reciprocal gesture of hospitality during sheep-shearing. Nabal, a wealthy but surly man, not only refused David's request but also insulted him, questioning his identity and legitimacy ([1 Samuel 25:10-11](/1_samuel/25-10 "1 Samuel 25:10-11 - Nabal's Insult to David")). Enraged, David vowed to destroy Nabal and every male in his household by morning ([1 Samuel 25:22](/1_samuel/25-22 "1 Samuel 25:22 - David's Oath of Vengeance")). Abigail, Nabal's discerning wife, quickly gathered provisions and, without her husband's knowledge, intercepted David. Her lengthy speech, beginning in [1 Samuel 25:23](/1_samuel/25-23 "1 Samuel 25:23 - Abigail's Humility Before David"), is a masterpiece of diplomacy, humility, and theological insight, culminating in the powerful appeal of verse 31. She presents herself as a substitute for Nabal's folly, offers a practical solution (the provisions), and, most importantly, appeals to David's future as God's anointed king, urging him to act in a manner worthy of that high office.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The narrative unfolds in the wilderness of Paran/Maon, a semi-arid region where shepherds and their flocks were vulnerable to raiders. David, as a protector, was operating within a system of reciprocal patronage common in the ancient Near East. Nabal's refusal was not just impolite but a grave breach of custom, justifying David's anger by the standards of the day. However, the concept of "blood vengeance" was also prevalent, where a family or clan was expected to avenge wrongs, often leading to cycles of violence. Abigail's intervention challenges this cycle by appealing to a higher standard of justice—God's ultimate sovereignty. Her actions as a woman, taking initiative without her husband's consent, were highly unusual and underscore her exceptional wisdom and courage in a patriarchal society. Furthermore, the anointing of kings in Israel carried significant theological weight; a king was expected to rule righteously and administer divine justice, not personal vendettas.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Samuel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **divine justice versus human vengeance**. Abigail's plea implicitly urges David to trust God to deal with Nabal, foreshadowing Nabal's swift demise by divine hand ([1 Samuel 25:38](/1_samuel/25-38 "1 Samuel 25:38 - Nabal's Death")). Secondly, it underscores the **integrity of leadership**. Abigail reminds David that a future king, especially one chosen by God, should not have the stain of impulsive, unjustified bloodshed on his conscience. This prepares the reader for David's later struggles with sin and his eventual repentance, emphasizing the importance of a clean conscience for those in authority. Thirdly, it showcases the **power of wise counsel and intercession**. Abigail's words are not merely persuasive; they are divinely inspired, serving as a critical turning point that prevents David from committing a sin that would have haunted him. Her role as a peacemaker and a voice of reason is a significant motif, demonstrating how God can use unexpected individuals to guide His chosen ones. Finally, the verse subtly reinforces the **certainty of God's promises** regarding David's kingship, a promise given in [1 Samuel 16:13](/1_samuel/16-13 "1 Samuel 16:13 - David's Anointing by Samuel"), which Abigail acknowledges and leverages in her appeal.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **לְפוּקָה (_l'pukah_):** Translated as "grief" in the KJV, this Hebrew word derives from the root פוק (_puq_), meaning "to stagger," "totter," or "stumble." In this context, it refers to a cause for stumbling or a source of future remorse and regret. Abigail is warning David that his impulsive act of vengeance would become a moral stumbling block for him, something that would cause him inner turmoil and disrupt his peace of mind, particularly in light of his divine destiny. It speaks to the deep psychological and spiritual burden of guilt.
* **מִכְשׁוֹל לֵב (_mikshol lev_):** Rendered "offence of heart," this phrase literally means "a stumbling block of heart" or "a cause of guilt for the conscience." It reinforces _l'pukah_, emphasizing the internal moral consequence of David's intended actions. Abigail is appealing directly to David's moral integrity and his future conscience, suggesting that such an act would permanently mar his inner peace and his standing before God. It highlights the lasting spiritual damage of unrighteous actions.
* **יָטַב (_yatav_):** Translated as "dealt well," this verb means "to be good," "to be well," "to be pleasing," or "to do good." When Abigail says, "when the LORD shall have dealt well with my lord," she is acknowledging God's sovereign plan to establish David as king and to prosper him. It implies divine favor, blessing, and the fulfillment of God's promises. This phrase elevates David's future status, reminding him that his authority and success will come from God's goodness, not from his own vengeful acts.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That this shall be no grief unto thee, nor offence of heart unto my lord":** Abigail's primary concern is David's future spiritual and psychological well-being. She foresees that an act of unjustified vengeance would weigh heavily on his conscience, causing him deep regret and becoming a moral "stumbling block" (as per the Hebrew) that would hinder his peace and integrity. She appeals to his better nature, recognizing the future king's need for a clear conscience.
* **"either that thou hast shed blood causeless, or that my lord hath avenged himself":** Here, Abigail precisely identifies the two potential sins David is about to commit: the shedding of innocent blood ("causeless") and taking personal revenge. She distinguishes between divine justice and human retribution, implying that Nabal's offense, while grave, does not justify David's intended total annihilation of the household. She urges David to resist the temptation to act as judge and executioner in his own cause.
* **"but when the LORD shall have dealt well with my lord":** This clause is a powerful prophetic acknowledgment of David's future. Abigail, by divine insight, recognizes that God will indeed establish David as king, fulfilling His promises. This statement serves as a subtle yet potent reminder to David of his destiny and the kind of character required of a divinely appointed leader. It shifts David's focus from immediate gratification of anger to God's overarching plan.
* **"then remember thine handmaid":** Despite her profound wisdom and the immense service she has rendered in preventing David's sin, Abigail concludes with a humble request. She does not demand reward or recognition but simply asks to be remembered by David in his future prosperity. This demonstrates her humility, her trust in David's character, and her faith that God will indeed "deal well" with him. It also subtly reinforces the idea that her intervention is for David's good, not her own gain.

#### Literary Devices
1 Samuel 25:31 is rich with literary artistry, primarily showcasing **Persuasion** through Abigail's masterful rhetoric. Her appeal is not based on fear or legalistic argument but on a profound understanding of David's character and destiny. She employs **Foreshadowing**, subtly but clearly alluding to David's future kingship ("when the LORD shall have dealt well with my lord"), which significantly influences David's decision. The passage also highlights **Contrast** between David's impulsive, human desire for vengeance and the divine standard of justice and leadership that Abigail champions. There is an element of **Irony** in that a woman, typically of lesser social standing, is the one to remind the future king of Israel of his moral and spiritual obligations, preventing him from a grave error. Finally, the phrase "offence of heart" functions as a **Metaphor** for a moral stumbling block or a burden of guilt, vividly illustrating the internal consequence of David's potential sin.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 25:31 stands as a powerful testament to the biblical principle that vengeance belongs to the Lord, not to humans. Abigail's intervention redirects David's focus from personal retribution to divine sovereignty, emphasizing that God is the ultimate arbiter of justice. This passage underscores the importance of a clean conscience for those in leadership, particularly for God's anointed. It teaches that true wisdom involves foresight, humility, and a deep trust in God's plan, even when faced with grave injustice. Abigail's actions exemplify the power of intercession and the role of wise counsel in preventing sin and preserving integrity, demonstrating how God can use unexpected means to guide His chosen ones towards righteousness.

* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance Belongs to God")
* [Deuteronomy 32:35](/deuteronomy/32-35 "Deuteronomy 32:35 - Vengeance is Mine")
* [Proverbs 20:22](/proverbs/20-22 "Proverbs 20:22 - Do Not Repay Evil with Evil")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Abigail's plea to David in 1 Samuel 25:31 offers timeless wisdom for believers navigating conflict and injustice. In moments of intense anger or perceived wrong, it is natural to desire immediate retribution. However, this passage calls us to pause and consider the long-term consequences of our actions, not just for others, but for our own conscience and spiritual well-being. Like David, we are often tempted to "shed blood causeless" or "avenge ourselves" when we feel wronged. Abigail's words remind us that such actions, while perhaps offering temporary satisfaction, ultimately become a "grief" or "offence of heart"—a burden of regret and guilt that can hinder our walk with God. We are called to trust in God's perfect justice, knowing that He will "deal well" with us and ultimately set all wrongs right. Furthermore, the narrative highlights the invaluable role of wise counsel. Are we open to the voices of reason, even if they come from unexpected sources, that might prevent us from making rash, regrettable decisions? Abigail's courageous intercession serves as a model for how we might speak truth into difficult situations, not to condemn, but to preserve integrity and promote peace, always with an eye toward God's sovereign plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **When have you been tempted to take matters into your own hands rather than trusting God's justice?**
* **What "grief" or "offence of heart" might you avoid by resisting personal vengeance today?**
* **Who are the "Abigails" in your life whose wise counsel you should listen to, even when it challenges your immediate desires?**
* **How does trusting in God's future "dealing well" with you empower you to act righteously in the present?**

### FAQ

**Why was David so ready to take vengeance?**
Answer: David's readiness for vengeance stemmed from a combination of factors. As a fugitive with his men, he had provided protection for Nabal's shepherds, essentially acting as an unpaid security detail in a dangerous wilderness. In return, he expected Nabal, a wealthy man, to provide provisions during the sheep-shearing feast, a common practice of reciprocal hospitality in that culture. Nabal's outright refusal, coupled with his insulting words that questioned David's legitimacy and called him a runaway servant ([1 Samuel 25:10-11](/1_samuel/25-10 "1 Samuel 25:10-11 - Nabal's Insult to David")), was a grave offense. It was not merely a slight but a public dishonor and a threat to David's authority and the morale of his men. David felt his honor and the well-being of his company were at stake, leading to his furious oath to annihilate Nabal's household ([1 Samuel 25:22](/1_samuel/25-22 "1 Samuel 25:22 - David's Vow of Destruction")).

**How does Abigail's plea relate to David's future kingship?**
Answer: Abigail's plea is deeply intertwined with David's future kingship. She subtly but powerfully reminds David of his divine destiny by stating, "when the LORD shall have dealt well with my lord." This acknowledges God's promise to establish David as king, a promise David himself was aware of since his anointing by Samuel ([1 Samuel 16:13](/1_samuel/16-13 "1 Samuel 16:13 - David's Anointing")). Abigail's argument is that a king, especially one chosen by God, must have a clear conscience, free from the stain of impulsive, unjustified bloodshed. Committing such an act would be a "stumbling block" to his reign and a "cause of guilt" for his heart. By preventing David from taking personal vengeance, Abigail helps preserve his integrity and moral authority, ensuring he would be a king whose hands were clean, worthy of God's favor and the people's respect.

**What was the outcome for Nabal after this encounter?**
Answer: After Abigail returned home and informed Nabal of her intervention and David's change of heart, Nabal suffered a stroke or heart attack. The Bible states that "his heart died within him, and he became as a stone" ([1 Samuel 25:37](/1_samuel/25-37 "1 Samuel 25:37 - Nabal's Stroke")). About ten days later, the Lord struck Nabal, and he died ([1 Samuel 25:38](/1_samuel/25-38 "1 Samuel 25:38 - Nabal's Death")). This swift and direct divine judgment underscored Abigail's wisdom in urging David to leave vengeance to the Lord. Upon hearing of Nabal's death, David praised God for avenging him without his own hand, and subsequently took Abigail as his wife ([1 Samuel 25:39-42](/1_samuel/25-39 "1 Samuel 25:39-42 - David Marries Abigail")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Samuel 25:31, with Abigail's prophetic appeal to David's future kingship and her plea to avoid personal vengeance, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus. David, though God's anointed, was prone to human anger and the temptation of self-justice. In contrast, Jesus, the ultimate King and the true Anointed One, perfectly embodies the principles Abigail advocated. He never "shed blood causeless" nor "avenged himself." When faced with the ultimate injustice and betrayal, He did not call down legions of angels ([Matthew 26:52](/matthew/26-52 "Matthew 26:52 - Put Your Sword Back")) but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly ([1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Suffering")). His kingdom is not of this world, established not by violence or human retribution, but by divine love and sacrifice ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - My Kingdom Is Not of This World")). Jesus, unlike David, never had a "grief" or "offence of heart" from sin, for He was without sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Our High Priest Understands")). He is the one with whom the Lord has "dealt well" in the ultimate sense, raising Him from the dead and exalting Him to the highest place ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation")). Moreover, just as Abigail interceded for David, Jesus continually intercedes for us, preventing us from the ultimate "grief" of sin and bringing us into reconciliation with God, demonstrating God's perfect justice and boundless grace ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")).

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

Genesis 40:14

But think on me when it shall be well with thee, and shew kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house:

Romans 12:19

Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

2 Corinthians 1:12

¶ For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.

1 Samuel 24:15

The LORD therefore be judge, and judge between me and thee, and see, and plead my cause, and deliver me out of thine hand.

Psalms 94:1

¶ O LORD God, to whom vengeance belongeth; O God, to whom vengeance belongeth, shew thyself.

Romans 14:21

[It is] good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor [any thing] whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.

Proverbs 5:12

And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof;