1 Chronicles 11:17

And David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, that [is] at the gate!

And David {H1732} longed {H183}, and said {H559}, Oh that one would give me drink {H8248} of the water {H4325} of the well {H953} of Bethlehem {H1035}, that is at the gate {H8179}!

David had a craving and said, "I wish someone could give me water to drink from the well by the gate of Beit-Lechem!"

David longed for water and said, “Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem!”

And David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me water to drink of the well of Beth-lehem, which is by the gate!

Commentary

1 Chronicles 11:17 captures a deeply human moment of King David amidst a significant period in Israel's history. While entrenched in a stronghold, likely during conflict with the Philistines, David expresses a profound desire for water from his childhood home, Bethlehem.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse is situated immediately after David has been anointed king over all Israel (1 Chronicles 11:1-3) and has captured Jerusalem, making it his capital. The Philistines, a perennial enemy of Israel, were a constant threat, and at this time, their garrison occupied Bethlehem, David's hometown (1 Chronicles 11:16). David was in a stronghold, likely Adullam, a place of refuge. His longing for water from the well of Bethlehem, specifically "that is at the gate," highlights the danger involved, as reaching it would mean passing through enemy lines.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Humanity of David: Despite being a mighty warrior and king, David experiences a simple, nostalgic thirst, perhaps intensified by the stress of war and the proximity of his occupied hometown. This reveals his vulnerability and connection to his roots.
  • The Power of Nostalgia: The longing isn't just for water, but for water from a specific, sentimental place—the well of Bethlehem. It speaks to the deep emotional pull of home and past comfort.
  • Foreshadowing of Loyalty and Sacrifice: This seemingly casual wish immediately precedes one of the most powerful displays of loyalty by David's mighty men, who risked their lives to fulfill their king's desire (2 Samuel 23:16 offers a parallel account). It underscores the deep bond and devotion between David and his loyal warriors.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "longed" (ḥālal, here in a causative sense, often meaning "to be weak" or "to be faint") conveys a sense of deep yearning or being utterly overcome by desire. It's more than just being thirsty; it's a profound, almost desperate, wish for something specific and perhaps unattainable under the circumstances.

Practical Application

This passage reminds us that even great leaders have human needs and vulnerabilities. It also profoundly illustrates the nature of true loyalty and selfless service. David's men didn't just hear a command; they perceived a heartfelt longing and acted upon it with incredible courage, demonstrating a devotion that went beyond duty. For believers, it can prompt reflection on:

  • Our own "longings" – are they for earthly comforts, or do we thirst for God's presence and righteousness?
  • The depth of our commitment to those we serve, whether in leadership or fellowship.
  • The unexpected ways God can bring about acts of profound sacrifice through the devotion of others.

Reflection

The well of Bethlehem, from which David longed for water, would later become profoundly significant as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, the Living Water (John 4:14). This subtle connection adds a layer of depth to the ancient longing, pointing to a greater thirst that would one day be quenched by the Savior born in that very town.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 23:15 (3 votes)

    And David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, which [is] by the gate!

  • 2 Samuel 23:16 (3 votes)

    And the three mighty men brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that [was] by the gate, and took [it], and brought [it] to David: nevertheless he would not drink thereof, but poured it out unto the LORD.

  • John 4:14 (3 votes)

    But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

  • Isaiah 12:3 (3 votes)

    Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.

  • John 4:10 (3 votes)

    Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.

  • Psalms 143:6 (2 votes)

    I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul [thirsteth] after thee, as a thirsty land. Selah.

  • Psalms 42:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ To the chief Musician, Maschil, for the sons of Korah. As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.