2 Samuel 23:16

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.

And the three {H7969} mighty men {H1368} brake through {H1234} the host {H4264} of the Philistines {H6430}, and drew {H7579} water {H4325} out of the well {H953} of Bethlehem {H1035}, that was by the gate {H8179}, and took {H5375} it, and brought {H935} it to David {H1732}: nevertheless he would {H14} not drink {H8354} thereof, but poured it out {H5258} unto the LORD {H3068}.

The three warrior-heroes broke through the army of the P'lishtim, drew water from the well by the gate of Beit-Lechem, took it and brought it to David. But he wouldn't drink it. Instead, he poured it out to ADONAI

So the three mighty men broke through the Philistine camp, drew water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. But he refused to drink it; instead, he poured it out to the LORD,

And the three mighty men brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Beth-lehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: but he would not drink thereof, but poured it out unto Jehovah.

Commentary

2 Samuel 23:16 recounts a powerful moment that highlights the extraordinary loyalty of David's mighty men and King David's profound reverence for life and for God. This verse is part of a larger section (2 Samuel 23:8-39) detailing the heroic exploits of David's most elite warriors, following his "last words."

Context

At this point in David's reign, he was likely in a stronghold, possibly the cave of Adullam or a similar fortified location, while his hometown of Bethlehem was under the control of the Philistines. David, perhaps parched and nostalgic, expressed a casual longing for a drink from the well of Bethlehem, which was by the city gate. This was not a command, but a mere wistful wish.

Despite the extreme danger, three of David's most valiant mighty men—Jashobeam, Eleazar, and Shammah (mentioned in earlier verses of this chapter)—heard his longing. Without hesitation, they "brake through the host of the Philistines," risking their lives to retrieve the water. Their success in this perilous mission underscores their immense courage and unwavering devotion to their king.

Key Themes

  • Extraordinary Loyalty and Devotion: The mighty men demonstrated unparalleled loyalty, valuing their king's comfort and desire above their own safety. Their willingness to face an armed Philistine garrison for a simple drink of water is a testament to their deep bond and commitment.
  • The Sacredness of Life: David's response to their heroic act is the heart of the verse. He recognized the immense cost of the water—the potential sacrifice of his men's lives. He viewed the water not as a refreshing drink, but as something precious, almost like their "blood." His refusal to drink it shows his profound respect for their lives and their selfless act.
  • Selfless Leadership: David's decision not to drink the water exemplifies a leader who prioritizes the lives and sacrifices of his people over his own personal comfort or desire. He could not bring himself to consume something obtained at such a high risk to his devoted followers.
  • Reverence and Sacrifice to God: Instead of drinking, David "poured it out unto the LORD." This act was a solemn libation or offering, recognizing that something so costly and sacred belonged to God alone. It was an act of worship, acknowledging God's sovereignty and the sanctity of the lives that risked all. This reflects a deeper spiritual understanding, where the most precious things are consecrated to the Divine. David's act here mirrors a profound understanding of the sanctity of life, often associated with blood in the Old Testament.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "poured it out unto the LORD" (KJV) or "poured it out as a drink offering to the LORD" (NIV) signifies a formal act of worship. In ancient Israelite practice, libations (drink offerings) were common, often accompanying burnt offerings (Numbers 15:5). By pouring the water out, David consecrated it to God, declaring it too sacred for human consumption because of the life-threatening effort involved in obtaining it. It was an act of ultimate respect, not waste.

Practical Application

This powerful narrative offers several lessons for today:

  • Value of Selfless Service: It challenges us to appreciate those who serve and sacrifice for others, recognizing the often unseen cost of their devotion.
  • True Leadership: Leaders should emulate David's example by valuing the well-being and sacrifices of their team or community above their own desires.
  • The Cost of Our Blessings: We are reminded that many blessings in our lives come at a significant cost, often through the efforts or sacrifices of others. This should inspire gratitude and humility.
  • Giving Our Best to God: David's act of pouring out the water to the Lord illustrates that the most precious and costly things in our lives should ultimately be dedicated to God, whether it's our talents, resources, or even our very lives.
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Cross-References

  • Genesis 35:14 (5 votes)

    And Jacob set up a pillar in the place where he talked with him, [even] a pillar of stone: and he poured a drink offering thereon, and he poured oil thereon.

  • 2 Corinthians 5:14 (5 votes)

    For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:

  • Lamentations 2:19 (3 votes)

    Arise, cry out in the night: in the beginning of the watches pour out thine heart like water before the face of the Lord: lift up thy hands toward him for the life of thy young children, that faint for hunger in the top of every street.

  • Romans 5:7 (3 votes)

    For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.

  • 1 Samuel 19:5 (2 votes)

    For he did put his life in his hand, and slew the Philistine, and the LORD wrought a great salvation for all Israel: thou sawest [it], and didst rejoice: wherefore then wilt thou sin against innocent blood, to slay David without a cause?

  • Acts 20:24 (2 votes)

    But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

  • Philippians 2:17 (2 votes)

    Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.