1 Samuel 25:13

And David said unto his men, Gird ye on every man his sword. And they girded on every man his sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the stuff.

And David {H1732} said {H559} unto his men {H582}, Gird ye on {H2296} every man {H376} his sword {H2719}. And they girded on {H2296} every man {H376} his sword {H2719}; and David {H1732} also girded on {H2296} his sword {H2719}: and there went up {H5927} after {H310} David {H1732} about four {H702} hundred {H3967} men {H376}; and two hundred {H3967} abode {H3427} by the stuff {H3627}.

David said to his men, "Buckle your swords on, all of you!" Each one buckled on his sword, David too; and there went up after David about four hundred men, while two hundred stayed with the equipment.

And David said to his men, “Strap on your swords!” So David and all his men put on their swords, and about four hundred men followed David, while two hundred stayed with the supplies.

And David said unto his men, Gird ye on every man his sword. And they girded on every man his sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the baggage.

Commentary

1 Samuel 25:13 (KJV) describes a pivotal moment in David's life, revealing his immediate and intense reaction to the insult from Nabal. This verse sets the stage for a potential conflict, showcasing David's resolve and his men's loyalty.

Context

This verse occurs immediately after Nabal, a wealthy but churlish man, publicly disrespected David and refused to provide provisions for David's men, even though David and his followers had protected Nabal's shepherds and flocks in the wilderness. David, who was at this time living as an outlaw but maintaining a strong band of loyal men, felt deeply affronted by Nabal's ingratitude and insolence. The command to "Gird ye on every man his sword" is a direct response to this perceived slight, indicating David's intention to take matters into his own hands and exact revenge.

Key Themes

  • David's Anger and Vengeance: The verse vividly portrays David's human side, particularly his vulnerability to wrath when provoked. His command to arm himself and his men signifies a dangerous surge of anger and a firm intent for retaliation, a stark contrast to his later displays of mercy, such as when he spared King Saul's life.
  • Preparation for Conflict: The act of "girding on" a sword was a common idiom for preparing for battle or a serious confrontation. It underscores the immediate and decisive nature of David's response, mobilizing his forces for a violent encounter.
  • Leadership and Loyalty: Despite his outlaw status, David commanded a significant force of men who were ready to follow his orders, even into what would have been a bloody reprisal. This highlights his charismatic leadership and the strong bond of loyalty between him and his followers. The division of forces (400 going, 200 staying "by the stuff") shows practical military organization.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "gird ye on" (from the Hebrew chagar) literally means to bind or fasten on, specifically referring to the sword belt. It's an action word that conveys readiness and immediate preparation for physical engagement. There isn't a complex hidden meaning, but its directness emphasizes the swiftness and seriousness of David's intent to respond to Nabal's insult.

Practical Application

This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the destructive potential of uncontrolled anger and the human tendency to seek immediate revenge when wronged. David, a man after God's own heart, was still susceptible to such impulses. It foreshadows the divine intervention through Abigail's wise and humble intercession, which ultimately prevents David from shedding innocent blood. The narrative reminds us that even when we feel justified in our anger, rash actions can lead to regrettable consequences, and often, God provides a way to prevent us from acting out of raw emotion, as He did for David in this instance.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 23:13 (3 votes)

    Then David and his men, [which were] about six hundred, arose and departed out of Keilah, and went whithersoever they could go. And it was told Saul that David was escaped from Keilah; and he forbare to go forth.

  • Romans 12:19 (2 votes)

    Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

  • Romans 12:21 (2 votes)

    Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

  • Proverbs 19:2 (2 votes)

    ¶ Also, [that] the soul [be] without knowledge, [it is] not good; and he that hasteth with [his] feet sinneth.

  • 1 Samuel 24:5 (2 votes)

    And it came to pass afterward, that David's heart smote him, because he had cut off Saul's skirt.

  • 1 Samuel 24:6 (2 votes)

    And he said unto his men, The LORD forbid that I should do this thing unto my master, the LORD'S anointed, to stretch forth mine hand against him, seeing he [is] the anointed of the LORD.

  • Joshua 9:14 (2 votes)

    And the men took of their victuals, and asked not [counsel] at the mouth of the LORD.