1 Samuel 17:58

Analysis & Commentary

And Saul said to him, Whose son art thou, thou young man? And David answered, I am the son of thy servant Jesse the Beth-lehemite.

David's answer 'I am the son of thy servant Jesse the Beth-lehemite' combines humility with clarity. He identifies himself through his father - the customary form of introduction - while using the deferential 'thy servant.' Bethlehem's mention carries prophetic weight: this small town would produce Israel's greatest king and, ultimately, the Messiah (Micah 5:2). David's humble origins from a servant family in an insignificant town became the foundation for God's redemptive purposes. The exchange formally establishes David's identity at the precise moment his public destiny begins - the shepherd boy from Bethlehem now stands before the king whose throne he will inherit.

Historical Context

Identification by father's name and hometown was standard ancient practice, establishing family reputation and tribal affiliation. Bethlehem was a small agricultural town in Judah's territory, far from the centers of power. Jesse's designation as 'thy servant' indicates his lower social status relative to royalty.

Questions for Reflection

• How does David's humble self-identification model appropriate humility even in moments of great achievement?
• What significance do you see in Bethlehem's role in producing both David and, later, Jesus?