1 Samuel 18:11
And Saul cast the javelin; for he said, I will smite David even to the wall with it. And David avoided out of his presence twice.
Original Language Analysis
וַיָּ֤טֶל
cast
H2904
וַיָּ֤טֶל
cast
Strong's:
H2904
Word #:
1 of 12
to pitch over or reel; hence (transitively) to cast down or out
אֶֽת
H853
אֶֽת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
אַכֶּ֥ה
I will smite
H5221
אַכֶּ֥ה
I will smite
Strong's:
H5221
Word #:
6 of 12
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
וַיִּסֹּ֥ב
avoided out
H5437
וַיִּסֹּ֥ב
avoided out
Strong's:
H5437
Word #:
9 of 12
to revolve, surround, or border; used in various applications, literally and figuratively
Cross References
1 Samuel 20:33And Saul cast a javelin at him to smite him: whereby Jonathan knew that it was determined of his father to slay David.Isaiah 54:17No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.
Historical Context
Royal javelins were designed for throwing in combat. Saul's attempt during a private musical session would have left no witnesses to the 'accident' he might have claimed. David's ability to dodge twice suggests he was watching Saul's unstable behavior carefully.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you remain alert to danger while continuing faithful service?
- What does Saul's violence teach about where unchecked jealousy ultimately leads?
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Analysis & Commentary
And Saul cast the javelin; for he said, I will smite David even to the wall with it. And David avoided out of his presence twice.
Saul's attempt to 'smite David even to the wall' escalated from jealousy to attempted murder. The Hebrew nakah (to strike) indicates lethal intent. David's escape 'out of his presence twice' demonstrates both divine protection and David's alertness. Saul's willingness to murder during worship indicates how completely sin had corrupted his heart. The twice-repeated attempt shows this was pattern, not momentary madness.