1 Samuel 22:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 22:10
10 And he enquired of the LORD for him, and gave him victuals, and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 22 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, redemption, obedience. Written during the transition to monarchy (c. 1050-1010 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Israel transitioned from tribal confederacy to monarchy while facing Philistine military pressure.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Samuel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Samuel 22:10
10 And he enquired of the LORD for him, and gave him victuals, and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine.
Analysis
And he enquired of the LORD for him, and gave him victuals, and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine.
Doeg's report adds a detail not mentioned in chapter 21—that Ahimelech 'enquired of the LORD' for David. The Hebrew 'sha'al' (enquired/asked) suggests consultation through priestly means, likely the Urim and Thummim. Whether this actually occurred or Doeg embellished to strengthen his accusation remains debated. The threefold assistance—divine guidance, food, and weapon—made Ahimelech appear thoroughly complicit in David's escape. Doeg's testimony would provide Saul legal grounds for his murderous response. The factual elements (food and sword) mixed with possible exaggeration demonstrate how truth can be weaponized when stripped of context and motive.
Historical Context
Priestly inquiry through the ephod containing Urim and Thummim was the authorized means of seeking divine guidance. If Ahimelech did inquire for David, he may have been unaware of the conflict between David and Saul, acting in his normal priestly capacity.
Reflection
- How can accurate facts presented without context become instruments of injustice?
- What responsibility do we bear for how our true but incomplete reports might be used?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Samuel 23:2, 23:4, 30:8
- Word: Numbers 27:21