1 Samuel 24:2

Then Saul took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and went to seek David and his men upon the rocks of the wild goats.

Then Saul {H7586} took {H3947} three {H7969} thousand {H505} chosen {H977} men {H376} out of all Israel {H3478}, and went {H3212} to seek {H1245} David {H1732} and his men {H582} upon {H6440} the rocks {H6697} of the wild goats {H3277}.

Sha'ul took three thousand men chosen from all Isra'el and went searching for David and his men on the cliffs where the mountain goats are.

So Saul took three thousand chosen men from all Israel and went to look for David and his men in the region of the Rocks of the Wild Goats.

Then Saul took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and went to seek David and his men upon the rocks of the wild goats.

Commentary

1 Samuel 24:2 vividly illustrates the intense and relentless pursuit of David by King Saul, setting the stage for a dramatic encounter between the two central figures of this historical narrative.

Context

This verse immediately follows David's escape from the city of Keilah, where Saul had attempted to trap him. King Saul, consumed by a deep-seated jealousy and paranoia over David's popularity and God's favor (1 Samuel 18:8), is determined to eliminate him. To achieve this, Saul mobilizes a formidable force of "three thousand chosen men out of all Israel," indicating a significant military effort dedicated solely to hunting David and his small band of loyal followers. The pursuit leads them to the "rocks of the wild goats," a specific and rugged area within the wilderness of Engedi, renowned for its steep cliffs, caves, and natural springs. This harsh, desolate terrain was a known refuge for fugitives like David, as it offered numerous hiding places and challenging conditions for pursuers.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Saul's Obsession and Decline: The mobilization of such a large, elite force against one man underscores the extent of Saul's irrational fear and his spiritual deterioration. He misuses his kingly power for a personal vendetta rather than for the good of Israel.
  • David's Peril and God's Providence: Despite being God's anointed future king (1 Samuel 16:13), David is portrayed as a vulnerable fugitive, constantly on the run and facing imminent danger. Yet, the larger narrative highlights God's unwavering protection and guidance, even in the most precarious circumstances.
  • The Wilderness as a Testing Ground: The "rocks of the wild goats" symbolize the challenging environment where David's faith, patience, and leadership were rigorously tested. It was a period of intense pressure that refined his character and deepened his reliance on God, preparing him for his future role as king.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "rocks of the wild goats" translates the Hebrew Sela'im ha-ye'elim. Sela'im refers to rugged cliffs or crags, while ye'elim specifically denotes the Nubian ibex, a species of wild goat known for its agility on steep, rocky terrain. This precise detail grounds the narrative in the geographical realities of the Engedi region, famous for its ibex population. It emphasizes the rugged and almost inaccessible nature of David's hiding places, which made his capture incredibly difficult despite Saul's overwhelming force.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the destructive nature of unchecked jealousy and paranoia, which can lead individuals to pursue personal vendettas with disproportionate energy and resources. For believers, David's experience in the wilderness offers encouragement: even when facing formidable opposition and seemingly overwhelming odds, God provides refuge and protection in unexpected places. It highlights the importance of trusting in divine providence even when circumstances seem dire. Furthermore, this setting provides the backdrop for David's remarkable act of mercy toward Saul, demonstrating a profound contrast in character and leadership that would soon become evident (1 Samuel 24:4).

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Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 26:2 (3 votes)

    Then Saul arose, and went down to the wilderness of Ziph, having three thousand chosen men of Israel with him, to seek David in the wilderness of Ziph.

  • Psalms 37:32 (2 votes)

    The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him.

  • 1 Samuel 13:2 (2 votes)

    Saul chose him three thousand [men] of Israel; [whereof] two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.

  • Psalms 104:18 (2 votes)

    The high hills [are] a refuge for the wild goats; [and] the rocks for the conies.

  • Psalms 38:12 (2 votes)

    ¶ They also that seek after my life lay snares [for me]: and they that seek my hurt speak mischievous things, and imagine deceits all the day long.

  • Psalms 141:6 (2 votes)

    When their judges are overthrown in stony places, they shall hear my words; for they are sweet.