1 Samuel 26:8

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then said {H559} Abishai {H52} to David {H1732}, God {H430} hath delivered {H5462} thine enemy {H341} into thine hand {H3027} this day {H3117}: now therefore let me smite {H5221} him, I pray thee, with the spear {H2595} even to the earth {H776} at once {H6471}{H259}, and I will not smite him the second time {H8138}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Avishai said to David, "God has handed your enemy over to you today; so now, please, let me pin him to the ground with just one stroke of the spear. I won't strike him a second time."

Berean Standard Bible

Abishai said to David, “Today God has delivered your enemy into your hand. Now, therefore, please let me thrust the spear through him into the ground with one stroke. I will not need to strike him twice!”

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 26:8 captures a tense moment in the wilderness of Ziph, where David's loyal nephew, Abishai, urges David to decisively eliminate King Saul. Abishai interprets Saul's vulnerable state—deeply asleep within David's reach—as a clear sign of divine intervention, a providential opportunity for God to deliver David's persecutor into his hands. Abishai's passionate plea to strike a single, fatal blow with a spear highlights the human inclination towards immediate retribution and the desire to seize what appears to be a divinely sanctioned moment for personal advantage, setting the stage for David's profound demonstration of faith and restraint.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a prolonged and perilous period of David's life, marked by King Saul's relentless, paranoid pursuit to kill him. It is the second instance, following the encounter in the [cave of Engedi](/1_samuel/24 "1 Samuel 24 - David Spares Saul in the Cave"), where David has a clear opportunity to end Saul's life and his own suffering. The narrative of [1 Samuel 26](/1_samuel/26 "1 Samuel 26 - David Spares Saul Again") mirrors the earlier account, emphasizing the recurring theme of David's character and his unwavering commitment to God's timing and sovereignty. Abishai's urgent proposal in [1 Samuel 26:8](/1_samuel/26-8 "1 Samuel 26:8 - Abishai's Proposal to Kill Saul") serves as a dramatic foil to David's subsequent, principled refusal to harm "the Lord's anointed" in [1 Samuel 26:9](/1_samuel/26-9 "1 Samuel 26:9 - David Refuses to Harm Saul"), underscoring the deep moral and theological dilemma David faced. The immediate verses describe David and Abishai infiltrating Saul's camp undetected, finding Saul asleep with his spear and water jug, setting the scene for Abishai's bold suggestion.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel and the broader Near East, a king's authority was often seen as divinely ordained. To "touch the Lord's anointed" (a phrase David uses in [1 Samuel 26:9](/1_samuel/26-9 "1 Samuel 26:9 - David Refuses to Harm Saul")) was a grave offense, akin to defying God Himself. The concept of "divine delivery" (as Abishai states, "God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand") was a common understanding of providential intervention in warfare or personal conflict, where an enemy's vulnerability was interpreted as God's active hand. Spears were primary weapons, and a single, decisive blow was a common method of execution or battlefield kill. The loyalty of a military retainer like Abishai, willing to carry out such a deed for his leader, was also a cultural norm, reflecting the hierarchical and often brutal realities of the time. The wilderness of Ziph, a rugged and remote region in Judah, provided ideal terrain for hiding and guerrilla warfare, reflecting the desperate circumstances of David's exile.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of [1 Samuel](/1_samuel/1 "1 Samuel - The Rise of David and Fall of Saul"). Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty versus Human Action**. Abishai's interpretation of the situation as a "God-given" opportunity for immediate action contrasts sharply with David's patient reliance on God's timing for his ascension to the throne, a theme echoed throughout David's life, such as in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - God's Covenant with David"). The scene also highlights the theme of **Respect for God's Anointed**, even when that anointed leader is actively persecuting. David's refusal to harm Saul, despite Saul's unrighteousness, underscores a profound theological principle about leaving judgment and consequences to God. Furthermore, the verse introduces the theme of **Temptation and Restraint**, as David is presented with a clear path to end his suffering and secure his future, yet chooses a more difficult, faith-filled route. This foreshadows David's later struggles with temptation, but in this instance, his character shines brightly.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Delivered (Hebrew, _nātan'_):** This versatile Hebrew verb (נָתַן) means "to give," "to place," or "to deliver." In Abishai's declaration, "God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day," it carries the strong connotation of God actively handing over or surrendering an enemy into one's power. It implies a divine act of transfer, making the enemy vulnerable and accessible for decisive action, thereby justifying the proposed execution as a divinely sanctioned act.
* **Smite (Hebrew, _nāḵāh'_):** The Hebrew verb (נָכָה) is a common and forceful term meaning "to strike," "to hit," "to beat," or "to kill." Abishai's repeated use of this word, combined with his desire to "smite him... even to the earth at once" and "I will not [smite] him the second time," emphasizes his intention for a single, immediate, and utterly fatal blow. It conveys a sense of finality and decisiveness, leaving no room for survival or a need for a follow-up strike.
* **Spear (Hebrew, _ḥănîṯ'_):** The Hebrew word (חֲנִית) refers specifically to a spear or lance, a primary weapon in ancient warfare. Its mention here is significant not only as the instrument of the proposed killing but also because Saul's own spear was a symbol of his royal authority and presence (it was at his head, [1 Samuel 26:7](/1_samuel/26-7 "1 Samuel 26:7 - Saul's Spear at His Head")). Abishai's intention to use it "even to the earth" suggests a powerful, downward thrust, pinning Saul to the ground, ensuring death and preventing any struggle or escape.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then said Abishai to David,"**: This introduces Abishai, David's loyal nephew and a fierce warrior, as the speaker. His counsel is presented immediately after David and Abishai have successfully infiltrated Saul's camp and found him asleep, highlighting Abishai's quick assessment of the situation and his readiness for action.
* **"God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day:"**: Abishai interprets Saul's vulnerability as a clear sign of divine providence. He believes God has actively intervened to give David this opportune moment, effectively "handing over" Saul. This statement frames the proposed action not as a personal vendetta but as the execution of God's will, a common ancient Near Eastern understanding of battlefield success or an enemy's unexpected vulnerability.
* **"now therefore let me smite him, I pray thee, with the spear even to the earth at once,"**: This is Abishai's direct and urgent plea. He requests permission to act immediately and decisively. The phrase "with the spear even to the earth" vividly describes a forceful, downward thrust designed to pin Saul to the ground and ensure a fatal blow. "At once" emphasizes the desire for a swift, no-hesitation execution.
* **"and I will not [smite] him the second time."**: This final clause underscores Abishai's absolute conviction in the effectiveness of a single strike. It communicates his certainty that one blow will be sufficient to kill Saul, leaving no doubt or need for a follow-up, and perhaps also indicating his resolve to spare David the burden of the act.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices. **Dramatic Irony** is evident as Saul, the hunter, becomes the hunted and lies vulnerable, unaware of the mortal danger he is in, while David, whom he seeks to kill, holds his life in his hands. This creates tension and highlights the reversal of fortunes. **Contrast** is sharply drawn between Abishai's impulsive, pragmatic, and vengeance-driven proposal and David's impending display of patience, faith, and respect for God's anointed. Abishai represents the human inclination to seize an opportune moment, while David embodies a higher principle. The **Symbolism** of Saul's spear, a sign of his kingship and power, now lying vulnerable at his head, further emphasizes his diminished state and the ease with which David could usurp his authority. The narrative also uses **Foreshadowing**, as David's decision here, mirroring his earlier act in the cave, reinforces his character as one who trusts God's timing, implicitly foreshadowing his rightful, divinely appointed ascension to the throne without resorting to violence against God's chosen leader.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Abishai's eager proposal to eliminate Saul, while seemingly pragmatic and even divinely sanctioned from a human perspective, sets the stage for David to articulate a profound theological principle: that vengeance and the timing of God's plans belong solely to the Lord. David's subsequent refusal to harm "the Lord's anointed" (as seen in [1 Samuel 26:9](/1_samuel/26-9 "1 Samuel 26:9 - David Refuses to Harm Saul")) demonstrates a deep trust in God's sovereignty and justice, even when enduring severe personal persecution. This moment underscores the importance of not taking matters into one's own hands, especially when it involves God's chosen instruments or when it preempts God's perfect timing. It teaches that even when opportunities arise that seem to align with our desires, true faith involves waiting on God to act in His way and His time, respecting His authority and His methods of justice.

* [1 Samuel 24:6](/1_samuel/24-6 "1 Samuel 24:6 - David's First Refusal to Harm Saul")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Leave Vengeance to God")
* [Psalm 37:7](/psalms/37-7 "Psalm 37:7 - Rest in the Lord and Wait Patiently")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in 1 Samuel 26:8, particularly when viewed in light of David's response, offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It challenges us to examine our own impulses when faced with opportunities that promise immediate relief from suffering or a quick path to our desired outcomes. Abishai's suggestion, though well-intentioned from his perspective, represents the human tendency to "help God out" or to take matters into our own hands when we perceive a "divine opening." Yet, David's example reminds us that true faith often requires patient endurance, a willingness to forgo personal vengeance, and a deep respect for God's sovereign timing, even when it means enduring injustice or delay. It calls us to trust that God's justice will prevail and His purposes will be accomplished without our needing to resort to ungodly means, even if those means appear to be the most efficient or logical. This passage encourages us to cultivate a heart that is slow to anger and quick to trust, leaving the ultimate vindication and establishment of justice to the Lord.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **When have you been tempted to "help God out" or take matters into your own hands instead of waiting on His timing?**
* **How does David's restraint toward Saul challenge your understanding of justice and vengeance?**
* **In what areas of your life are you currently being called to trust God's timing and relinquish control?**

### FAQ
**Why did Abishai believe God had delivered Saul into David's hand?**

Answer: Abishai, like many in the ancient world, interpreted Saul's deep sleep and vulnerability as a direct act of divine intervention. In their worldview, an enemy being found in such a helpless state was not mere coincidence but a clear sign that God had "delivered" or "handed over" that enemy to be dealt with. From Abishai's perspective, this was God actively clearing David's path to the throne, providing a divinely sanctioned opportunity to eliminate the persecutor and fulfill God's promise to David. It was a common belief that success or vulnerability in battle or pursuit was a sign of divine favor or disfavor, as seen in other biblical narratives where God "delivers" enemies into the hands of His people (e.g., [Judges 4:14](/judges/4-14 "Judges 4:14 - God Delivers Sisera to Barak")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The profound restraint demonstrated by David in this narrative, particularly his refusal to harm "the Lord's anointed" despite extreme provocation, serves as a powerful Old Testament foreshadowing of Christ. David, though persecuted and unjustly pursued, chose not to retaliate or seize power through violence, but instead trusted in God's perfect timing and justice. This mirrors the ultimate "Anointed One," Jesus Christ, who, though possessing all power and authority, willingly submitted to injustice, persecution, and a wrongful death, refusing to call down legions of angels ([Matthew 26:53](/matthew/26-53 "Matthew 26:53 - Jesus Refuses to Call Angels")) or retaliate against His tormentors ([1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Suffering Patiently")). Just as David spared Saul, Jesus, the true King, did not come to destroy but to save ([Luke 9:56](/luke/9-56 "Luke 9:56 - The Son of Man Did Not Come to Destroy Lives")), offering forgiveness even to those who crucified Him ([Luke 23:34](/luke/23-34 "Luke 23:34 - Jesus Forgives His Executioners")). David's patient endurance and reliance on God's sovereignty, rather than human vengeance, prefigure Christ's perfect obedience to the Father's will, ultimately leading to His exaltation and the establishment of an eternal kingdom not built by human might, but by divine love and sacrifice ([Philippians 2:8-11](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8-11 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")).

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 24:4

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.

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.

Judges 1:4

And Judah went up; and the LORD delivered the Canaanites and the Perizzites into their hand: and they slew of them in Bezek ten thousand men.

Deuteronomy 32:30

How should one chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight, except their Rock had sold them, and the LORD had shut them up?

Joshua 21:44

And the LORD gave them rest round about, according to all that he sware unto their fathers: and there stood not a man of all their enemies before them; the LORD delivered all their enemies into their hand.

1 Samuel 23:14

¶ And David abode in the wilderness in strong holds, and remained in a mountain in the wilderness of Ziph. And Saul sought him every day, but God delivered him not into his hand.

1 Samuel 24:18

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.