1 Samuel 30:21

KJV

¶ And David came to the two hundred men, which were so faint that they could not follow David, whom they had made also to abide at the brook Besor: and they went forth to meet David, and to meet the people that [were] with him: and when David came near to the people, he saluted them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And David {H1732} came {H935} to the two hundred {H3967} men {H582}, which were so faint {H6296} that they could not follow {H3212}{H310} David {H1732}, whom they had made also to abide {H3427} at the brook {H5158} Besor {H1308}: and they went forth {H3318} to meet {H7125} David {H1732}, and to meet {H7125} the people {H5971} that were with him: and when David {H1732} came near {H5066} to the people {H5971}, he saluted {H7592}{H7965} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

David came to where the two hundred men were who had been too exhausted to follow him, whom they had let stay at Vadi B'sor. They came out to meet David and the people with him. When David approached them he greeted them.

Berean Standard Bible

When David came to the two hundred men who had been too exhausted to follow him from the Brook of Besor, they came out to meet him and the troops with him. As David approached the men, he greeted them,

American Standard Version

And David came to the two hundred men, who were so faint that they could not follow David, whom also they had made to abide at the brook Besor; and they went forth to meet David, and to meet the people that were with him: and when David came near to the people, he saluted them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Samuel 30:21 captures a defining moment in David's leadership upon his return from the triumphant pursuit of the Amalekites. Having successfully recovered all that was plundered from Ziklag, David intentionally sought out and formally greeted the two hundred men who, due to extreme exhaustion, had been unable to continue the pursuit and had remained behind at the brook Besor. This deliberate act of "saluting" them underscored his commitment to unity, recognized their vital, albeit less visible, contribution, and laid the groundwork for his subsequent decree regarding the equitable division of the spoil among all his men.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed at the climax of a deeply distressing and ultimately victorious episode for David and his men. Immediately preceding this, David and his six hundred men returned to find Ziklag burned and plundered by the Amalekites, with their families taken captive ([1 Samuel 30:1-2](/1_samuel/30-1-2 "1 Samuel 30:1-2 - The Amalekite Raid on Ziklag")). In a moment of profound personal grief and communal despair, David famously [encouraged himself in the Lord his God](/1_samuel/30-6 "1 Samuel 30:6 - David Encourages Himself in the Lord") and, after consulting the ephod, received divine affirmation to pursue the raiders. During their relentless pursuit, two hundred men became so utterly exhausted that they could not cross the [brook Besor](/1_samuel/30-9 "1 Samuel 30:9 - The Brook Besor"), a significant geographical barrier. David, demonstrating pragmatic leadership, left them there to guard the supplies ([1 Samuel 30:9-10](/1_samuel/30-9-10 "1 Samuel 30:9-10 - The Weary Men at Besor")). The remaining four hundred, divinely guided, achieved a decisive victory, recovering everything that had been lost and taking abundant spoil ([1 Samuel 30:18-20](/1_samuel/30-18-20 "1 Samuel 30:18-20 - David Recovers All")). Verse 21, therefore, functions as the crucial reunion point, where David's character is further revealed in his interaction with the waiting contingent, directly preceding his groundbreaking decree on the division of spoil ([1 Samuel 30:24-25](/1_samuel/30-24-25 "1 Samuel 30:24-25 - David's Decree on Spoil Division")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Amalekites were a nomadic, predatory people, ancient enemies of Israel, known for their opportunistic raids (see [Exodus 17:8-16](/exodus/17-8-16 "Exodus 17:8-16 - Amalek Attacks Israel")). Ziklag itself was a Philistine town given to David by Achish, King of Gath, serving as David's base of operations during his exile from Saul ([1 Samuel 27:6](/1_samuel/27-6 "1 Samuel 27:6 - Ziklag Given to David")). In ancient warfare, the division of spoil was a critical aspect of military success, often a source of contention, and typically distributed based on direct participation in battle. The concept of "faintness" or exhaustion was a real and debilitating factor in long pursuits across arid, difficult terrain. David's "salutation" (Hebrew: *shâʼal*) was more than a casual greeting; it was a formal inquiry into their well-being, an act of acknowledgment and respect, particularly significant in a hierarchical military context. It served to formally reintegrate them into the victorious company, challenging the conventional wisdom that only those who fought deserved the spoils of war.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several enduring themes. Firstly, **Compassionate and Inclusive Leadership** is paramount, as David's immediate action upon returning was to personally engage with the weary men, demonstrating a genuine concern for all members of his company, not just the combatants. This aligns with the biblical emphasis on leaders having a [heart for their people](/1_samuel/16-7 "1 Samuel 16:7 - God Looks at the Heart"). Secondly, the theme of **Unity and Solidarity** is highlighted. By "saluting" the men at Besor, David actively fostered a sense of belonging and ensured that those who were physically unable to fight were still considered integral to the collective success. This act directly prefigures and undergirds his revolutionary decree in [1 Samuel 30:24](/1_samuel/30-24 "1 Samuel 30:24 - Equal Division of Spoil"), establishing a principle of equal contribution regardless of the specific role played. Thirdly, the passage underscores the **Recognition of Diverse Contributions**. David understood that guarding the baggage and providing a secure base was a vital, indispensable task, even if less glorious than direct combat. His greeting validated their difficult, yet essential, role, ensuring that all efforts, visible or unseen, were valued in the community.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Faint (Hebrew, _pâgar'_):** This word (H6296) describes a state of extreme weariness, exhaustion, or fatigue, often to the point of being unable to continue. It implies a physical limitation, not a lack of courage or willingness. The men were not shirking duty but were genuinely incapacitated by the grueling pursuit. David’s understanding of their condition highlights his empathy and discerning leadership.
* **Saluted (Hebrew, _shâʼal'_):** While commonly translated as "to ask" or "to inquire," in this context, *shâʼal* (H7592) carries a richer meaning. It implies a formal, respectful greeting, an inquiry into their welfare, and an acknowledgment of their presence and contribution. It was a personal gesture of care and recognition from David to his men, signifying acceptance and solidarity rather than a mere casual nod. This act of "saluting" them was a deliberate and significant gesture of leadership.
* **Besor (Hebrew, _Bᵉsôwr'_):** This proper noun (H1308), referring to the "brook Besor" (H5158), serves as more than just a geographical location; it represents a physical barrier and a point of division. It was the place where the weaker men had to stop, marking a literal and metaphorical separation. However, it also becomes the site of reunion and the place where David's inclusive policy is first enacted through his compassionate greeting, transforming it from a place of separation into one of solidarity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David came to the two hundred men":** This opening clause emphasizes David's initiative. He did not wait for the men to come to him, nor did he send a subordinate. He personally sought out the weary contingent, demonstrating his direct engagement and concern for all his followers. This immediate action speaks volumes about his leadership priorities, valuing every member of his company.
* **"which were so faint that they could not follow David, whom they had made also to abide at the brook Besor":** This part explains the reason for their absence from the battle: extreme physical exhaustion. It clarifies that their remaining behind was a necessity, not a choice of cowardice, and that their role was to "abide" or remain at the brook, guarding the supplies. This sets the context for David's subsequent actions, as he understands their limitations and their assigned, crucial task.
* **"and they went forth to meet David, and to meet the people that [were] with him":** This describes the reciprocal action of the 200 men. Upon seeing David and the victorious company, they actively moved to greet them. This signifies their eagerness for reunion and their continued loyalty and identification with the group, despite their inability to participate in the fighting. It highlights a mutual desire for connection and a continued sense of belonging.
* **"and when David came near to the people, he saluted them":** This is the climactic action of the verse. David's personal approach and formal greeting ("saluted them") are the key. It was a public and intentional act of recognition, welcome, and affirmation. This gesture validated their worth and contribution, ensuring they felt included in the triumph, despite their physical limitations, and setting the stage for the equitable division of spoils.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several effective literary devices. **Contrast** is evident between the four hundred men who continued the pursuit and achieved victory, and the two hundred who were "so faint" they had to remain behind. This highlights the different capacities and roles within the group, emphasizing that even those with limitations have a place. The **Symbolism** of the "brook Besor" is also significant; initially a barrier that divides the strong from the weak, it transforms into a place of reunion and the setting for David's demonstration of inclusive leadership. Furthermore, the passage contains an element of **Foreshadowing**, as David's compassionate "salutation" here prefigures his revolutionary and inclusive decree regarding the division of spoil in [1 Samuel 30:24-25](/1_samuel/30-24-25 "1 Samuel 30:24-25 - David's Decree on Equal Spoil Division"), where he establishes the principle that those who guard the supplies are as deserving as those who fight. The emphasis on David's personal action of "coming to" and "saluting" the men underscores his character through **Direct Characterization**, revealing his empathy and wisdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
David's actions in 1 Samuel 30:21 resonate deeply with foundational biblical principles concerning community, care for the vulnerable, and the value of every contribution within a collective. His intentional approach to the weary men, his personal greeting, and his subsequent decree on the division of spoil demonstrate a leadership rooted in compassion and equity, rather than mere performance or physical prowess. This foreshadows a kingdom where all members, regardless of their visible strength or direct participation in "battle," are valued and included. It speaks to God's own heart, which values the weak and marginalized, integrating them into the fabric of His people. This principle challenges a meritocratic worldview, asserting that worth is not solely derived from what one can overtly accomplish, but from belonging and contributing in whatever capacity is possible within the community.

* [1 Samuel 30:24-25](/1_samuel/30-24-25 "1 Samuel 30:24-25 - David's Law of Spoil Division")
* [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4-5 "Romans 12:4-5 - Many Members, One Body")
* [1 Corinthians 12:22-26](/1_corinthians/12-22-26 "1 Corinthians 12:22-26 - Indispensable Parts of the Body")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's encounter with the two hundred weary men at the brook Besor provides a timeless blueprint for compassionate leadership and community building in any context. In our own lives, whether in families, workplaces, churches, or broader communities, there are always those who, for various reasons—physical, emotional, or spiritual exhaustion; limitations; or different gifting—cannot participate in the "front lines" or the most visible tasks. This passage challenges us to intentionally seek out and acknowledge their presence and their contributions, however quiet or indirect they may seem. True strength in a community comes not from demanding uniform performance, but from valuing diverse capacities and ensuring that every member feels seen, respected, and included. A simple, genuine greeting or a word of affirmation, like David's "salutation," can bridge divides, heal wounds, and foster a profound sense of belonging, transforming a collection of individuals into a cohesive and resilient body that truly reflects the heart of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or community might I be overlooking or devaluing the contributions of those who are "faint" or serving in less visible roles?**
* **How can I, as a leader or a member of a community, proactively extend compassion and genuine acknowledgment to those who are weary or feel marginalized?**
* **What practical steps can I take to foster a greater sense of unity and inclusivity, ensuring that all members feel valued, regardless of their capacity or specific role?**

### FAQ
**Why were the two hundred men left behind at the brook Besor?**

Answer: The two hundred men were left behind because they were "so faint that they could not follow David." This indicates extreme physical exhaustion from the strenuous pursuit of the Amalekites. The text explicitly states this was due to their weariness, not a lack of courage or willingness to fight. They were assigned the crucial task of guarding the supplies and baggage at the [brook Besor](/1_samuel/30-9 "1 Samuel 30:9 - The Brook Besor"), providing a secure base for the fighting force.

**What is the significance of David "saluting" the men?**

Answer: David's act of "saluting" them (Hebrew: *shâʼal*) was highly significant. It was more than a casual greeting; it was a formal inquiry into their well-being, a personal acknowledgment of their presence, and a public validation of their role. In a military context, it served to formally reintegrate them into the victorious company, ensuring they felt seen and valued despite not participating in the direct combat. This gesture of compassion and inclusivity directly led to David's groundbreaking decree that those who guarded the supplies should share equally in the spoil with those who fought ([1 Samuel 30:24-25](/1_samuel/30-24-25 "1 Samuel 30:24-25 - David's Law of Spoil Division")).

**Did the men who stayed behind at Besor deserve a share of the spoil?**

Answer: According to David's subsequent decree in [1 Samuel 30:24-25](/1_samuel/30-24-25 "1 Samuel 30:24-25 - David's Law of Spoil Division"), yes, they absolutely did. David declared, "as his part is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike." This established a new, equitable principle in Israelite warfare, recognizing that guarding the supplies was a vital and indispensable contribution to the overall success of the mission. David's "salutation" in verse 21 was the compassionate prelude to this inclusive policy, demonstrating a profound understanding of communal interdependence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
David's compassionate leadership at the brook Besor, where he personally greeted and honored the weary and less visible members of his company, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate compassion and inclusivity of Jesus Christ. Just as David valued those who could not fight but served in a supporting role, Christ extends His grace and welcome to all who are weary and burdened, inviting them to find rest in Him ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28-30 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). Our Lord did not come to be served, but to serve, even to the point of washing His disciples' feet, demonstrating a radical servant leadership that elevates the humble and the weak ([John 13:1-17](/john/13-1-17 "John 13:1-17 - Jesus Washes Disciples' Feet")). In the body of Christ, there are diverse gifts and roles, and the "weaker" or less prominent members are often indispensable and receive greater honor ([1 Corinthians 12:22-26](/1_corinthians/12-22-26 "1 Corinthians 12:22-26 - The Indispensable Parts of the Body")). Jesus, our great High Priest, is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, having been tempted in every way, yet without sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Our Sympathetic High Priest")). He embodies the perfect fulfillment of David's inclusive spirit, ensuring that no one who comes to Him is cast out, and that every member, regardless of their perceived strength or contribution, is cherished and given a full share in the victory He has won on the cross.

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

Hebrews 13:1

¶ Let brotherly love continue.

1 Samuel 30:10

But David pursued, he and four hundred men: for two hundred abode behind, which were so faint that they could not go over the brook Besor.

Judges 8:15

And he came unto the men of Succoth, and said, Behold Zebah and Zalmunna, with whom ye did upbraid me, saying, [Are] the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna now in thine hand, that we should give bread unto thy men [that are] weary?

1 Peter 3:8

¶ Finally, [be ye] all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, [be] pitiful, [be] courteous: