1 Samuel 26:22
And David answered and said, Behold the king's spear! and let one of the young men come over and fetch it.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּ֤עַן
answered
H6030
וַיַּ֤עַן
answered
Strong's:
H6030
Word #:
1 of 10
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
וְיַֽעֲבֹ֛ר
come over
H5674
וְיַֽעֲבֹ֛ר
come over
Strong's:
H5674
Word #:
7 of 10
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
אֶחָ֥ד
and let one
H259
אֶחָ֥ד
and let one
Strong's:
H259
Word #:
8 of 10
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
Historical Context
The spear's return would restore Saul's symbol of royal authority while removing any evidence David might use against him. David's willingness to return it demonstrates he sought no permanent advantage from the encounter, only to prove his loyalty and innocence.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you maintain appropriate boundaries with those whose repentance has proven unreliable?
- What role does evidence versus emotion play in evaluating others' changed intentions?
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Analysis & Commentary
David's brief response focuses on the tangible evidence rather than Saul's emotional confession. By directing attention to 'the king's spear,' David keeps the conversation grounded in facts rather than feelings. His instruction to send 'one of the young men' to retrieve it maintains appropriate distance, refusing to personally return what he has taken. This measured response suggests David has learned not to trust Saul's momentary remorse, maintaining boundaries while remaining respectful.