1 Samuel 18:23

And Saul's servants spake those words in the ears of David. And David said, Seemeth it to you [a] light [thing] to be a king's son in law, seeing that I [am] a poor man, and lightly esteemed?

And Saul's {H7586} servants {H5650} spake {H1696} those words {H1697} in the ears {H241} of David {H1732}. And David {H1732} said {H559}, Seemeth {H5869} it to you a light {H7043} thing to be a king's {H4428} son in law {H2859}, seeing that I am a poor {H7326} man {H376}, and lightly esteemed {H7034}?

Sha'ul's servants said this to David; but David replied, "Do you think being the king's son-in-law is something to be treated so casually, given that I'm a poor man without social standing?"

But when Saul’s servants relayed these words to David, he replied, “Does it seem trivial in your sight to be the son-in-law of the king? I am a poor man and lightly esteemed.”

And Saul’s servants spake those words in the ears of David. And David said, Seemeth it to you a light thing to be the king’s son-in-law, seeing that I am a poor man, and lightly esteemed?

Commentary

1 Samuel 18:23 captures a moment of profound humility from David amidst Saul's calculated schemes. After Saul's servants convey the king's offer for David to become his son-in-law by marrying Michal, David's response reveals his true character and perspective on his own standing.

Context

Following David's celebrated victory over Goliath and his subsequent rise in popularity, King Saul grew increasingly jealous and fearful of David (1 Samuel 18:8-9). Saul had previously offered his elder daughter Merab to David, but then gave her to another man (1 Samuel 18:17-19). Now, with Michal, his younger daughter, expressing love for David, Saul saw another opportunity to trap David. His true intent was not to honor David, but to entice him into a dangerous mission against the Philistines, hoping David would be killed in battle, thus eliminating a perceived rival.

Key Themes and Messages

  • David's Humility: David's question, "Seemeth it to you [a] light [thing] to be a king's son in law, seeing that I [am] a poor man, and lightly esteemed?" powerfully underscores his genuine humility. He doesn't see himself as worthy of such a high honor, especially given his background as a shepherd boy from Bethlehem (1 Samuel 16:13). This contrasts sharply with the pride and insecurity of Saul.
  • Saul's Deception and Manipulation: The verse is part of Saul's larger strategy to eliminate David. Saul's offer, though seemingly generous, was a calculated move rooted in fear and malice, highlighting the dangers of jealousy and unchecked power.
  • Divine Elevation: Despite Saul's malicious intentions, God was actively working to elevate David. What Saul intended for evil, God was using to position David closer to the royal family and eventually the throne.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "light thing" (KJV) translates the Hebrew word קָלָה (qalah), which means "to be trifling, insignificant, contemptible." David is genuinely asking if such a monumental honor—to become part of the royal family—is considered a trivial or unimportant matter by Saul's servants, especially for someone of his humble status. His description of himself as a "poor man, and lightly esteemed" further emphasizes his awareness of his social standing and his unworthiness in human terms for such a prestigious connection.

Practical Application

This verse offers several timeless lessons:

  • Embrace Humility: David's example reminds us of the value of genuine humility, even when elevated to positions of influence or honor. True greatness often stems from a humble heart.
  • Discern Motives: Not every offer, even seemingly good ones, comes from pure motives. It is wise to seek discernment regarding the intentions behind opportunities presented to us.
  • God's Sovereignty in Schemes: Even when human beings plot and scheme for ill, God can use those very circumstances to advance His divine purposes and elevate those He has chosen. Our trust should ultimately be in His overarching plan.
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Cross-References

  • Proverbs 14:20 (2 votes)

    ¶ The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich [hath] many friends.

  • Psalms 119:141 (2 votes)

    ¶ I [am] small and despised: [yet] do not I forget thy precepts.

  • 1 Samuel 9:21 (2 votes)

    And Saul answered and said, [Am] not I a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel? and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? wherefore then speakest thou so to me?

  • Proverbs 19:6 (2 votes)

    ¶ Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man [is] a friend to him that giveth gifts.

  • Proverbs 19:7 (2 votes)

    All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth [them with] words, [yet] they [are] wanting [to him].

  • Ecclesiastes 9:15 (2 votes)

    Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man.

  • Ecclesiastes 9:16 (2 votes)

    Then said I, Wisdom [is] better than strength: nevertheless the poor man's wisdom [is] despised, and his words are not heard.