1 Samuel 29:5
Is not this David, of whom they sang one to another in dances, saying, Saul slew his thousands, and David his ten thousands?
Original Language Analysis
הֲלוֹא
H3808
הֲלוֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 13
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
אֲשֶׁ֧ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֧ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
4 of 13
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
יַֽעֲנוּ
of whom they sang
H6030
יַֽעֲנוּ
of whom they sang
Strong's:
H6030
Word #:
5 of 13
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,
הִכָּ֤ה
slew
H5221
הִכָּ֤ה
slew
Strong's:
H5221
Word #:
9 of 13
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
בַּֽאֲלָפָ֔יו
his thousands
H505
בַּֽאֲלָפָ֔יו
his thousands
Strong's:
H505
Word #:
11 of 13
hence (the ox's head being the first letter of the alphabet, and this eventually used as a numeral) a thousand
Historical Context
The song's continued circulation indicates its cultural impact. Popular songs often transmitted historical memory in oral cultures. That Philistine lords knew and quoted it shows how thoroughly David's victories had been celebrated.
Questions for Reflection
- How has your reputation, even when it caused problems, also provided unexpected protection?
- What does this reversal suggest about God's ability to use our history for His purposes?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The Philistines' quotation of the women's song, 'Saul slew his thousands, and David his ten thousands,' demonstrates how David's fame had spread even among enemies. This same song provoked Saul's initial jealousy (18:7); now it saves David from fighting against Israel. The irony is profound: the song that began David's troubles with Saul now prevents his greatest moral compromise. God uses David's reputation as a Philistine-slayer to remove him from the Philistine army.