1 Samuel 25:7

And now I have heard that thou hast shearers: now thy shepherds which were with us, we hurt them not, neither was there ought missing unto them, all the while they were in Carmel.

And now I have heard {H8085} that thou hast shearers {H1494}: now thy shepherds {H7462} which were with us, we hurt {H3637} them not, neither was there ought {H3972} missing {H6485} unto them, all the while {H3117} they were in Carmel {H3760}.

I've heard that you now have shearers. Your shepherds were with us [for a while], we did them no harm, and they found nothing missing all the time they were in Karmel.

Now I hear that it is time for shearing. When your shepherds were with us, we did not harass them, and nothing of theirs was missing the whole time they were in Carmel.

And now I have heard that thou hast shearers: thy shepherds have now been with us, and we did them no hurt, neither was there aught missing unto them, all the while they were in Carmel.

Commentary

1 Samuel 25:7 is a pivotal verse in David's interaction with Nabal, laying the groundwork for David's expectation of reciprocity and highlighting the integrity of his men during their time in the wilderness.

Context

At this point in David's life, he was a fugitive from King Saul, living with approximately 600 men in the wilderness of Judah. They often sustained themselves by providing protection to local shepherds and communities in exchange for provisions. The custom of sheep shearing was a time of great celebration and feasting, akin to a harvest festival, where landowners would typically show generosity and hospitality, especially to those who had rendered service. David, hearing of Nabal's shearing, sent ten young men to him with a respectful request for supplies, reminding Nabal of the protection they had provided. This verse underscores David's argument: his men had not only refrained from harming Nabal's shepherds but had also ensured that nothing was stolen or lost under their watch in Carmel.

Key Themes

  • Reciprocity and Just Expectation: David's request was not a demand but an expectation based on a recognized service. He had provided invaluable protection in a dangerous region, and the customary response was generosity during a time of abundance. This highlights the ancient practice of mutual aid.
  • Integrity and Discipline: The verse emphasizes that David's men "hurt them not, neither was there ought missing unto them." This speaks volumes about David's leadership and the discipline of his followers, especially considering they were outlaws living off the land. Their conduct stands in sharp contrast to the potential for brigandage. For more on David's integrity during difficult times, consider David's sparing of Saul's life.
  • Hospitality and Provision: The passage underscores the cultural importance of hospitality, particularly during festive seasons like sheep shearing. Nabal's failure to extend this expected generosity was a significant offense, not just a minor discourtesy.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "hurt them not" comes from the Hebrew root kalam (Χ›ΦΈΧœΦ·Χ), which implies not only physical harm but also shame or humiliation. David is asserting that his men did not disgrace or cause any injury to Nabal's shepherds. The phrase "neither was there ought missing" (literally, "nothing was missed" or "nothing was lost") reinforces the idea that David's men were not thieves but guardians, ensuring the safety and completeness of Nabal's valuable flocks, which were vulnerable in the wilderness. This meticulous care further strengthens David's claim for a rightful return.

Practical Application

This verse offers several timeless lessons:

  • Value of Service: It reminds us to acknowledge and value the contributions of others. David's service was real and beneficial. How do we recognize and appreciate those who serve us or our communities?
  • Integrity Under Pressure: David and his men, despite their precarious situation, maintained high standards of conduct. Even when circumstances are difficult or unfair, our integrity speaks volumes about our character and the God we serve. This aligns with principles found in 1 Peter 2:12, which encourages believers to live honorably among unbelievers.
  • The Principle of Reciprocity: While not a strict legal demand, the expectation of a return for good deeds is a foundational social principle. It encourages a healthy give-and-take in relationships and communities, fostering mutual respect and support.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 25:21 (4 votes)

    Now David had said, Surely in vain have I kept all that this [fellow] hath in the wilderness, so that nothing was missed of all that [pertained] unto him: and he hath requited me evil for good.

  • 1 Samuel 25:15 (3 votes)

    But the men [were] very good unto us, and we were not hurt, neither missed we any thing, as long as we were conversant with them, when we were in the fields:

  • 1 Samuel 25:16 (3 votes)

    They were a wall unto us both by night and day, all the while we were with them keeping the sheep.

  • Isaiah 11:6 (2 votes)

    The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.

  • Isaiah 11:9 (2 votes)

    They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.

  • Philippians 2:15 (2 votes)

    That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

  • 1 Samuel 22:2 (2 votes)

    And every one [that was] in distress, and every one that [was] in debt, and every one [that was] discontented, gathered themselves unto him; and he became a captain over them: and there were with him about four hundred men.