Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version She bowed down with her face to the ground and said, “I am your servant and am ready to serve you and wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” New Living Translation She bowed low to the ground and responded, “I, your servant, would be happy to marry David. I would even be willing to become a slave, washing the feet of his servants!” English Standard Version And she rose and bowed with her face to the ground and said, “Behold, your handmaid is a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.” Berean Standard Bible She arose, bowed facedown, and said, “Here is your servant, ready to serve and to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” Berean Literal Bible And she arose and bowed her face to the earth, and said, “Here is your maidservant, a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.” King James Bible And she arose, and bowed herself on her face to the earth, and said, Behold, let thine handmaid be a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord. New King James Version Then she arose, bowed her face to the earth, and said, “Here is your maidservant, a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.” New American Standard Bible And she got up and bowed with her face to the ground, and said, “Behold, your slave is a servant to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” NASB 1995 She arose and bowed with her face to the ground and said, “Behold, your maidservant is a maid to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” NASB 1977 And she arose and bowed with her face to the ground and said, “Behold, your maidservant is a maid to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” Legacy Standard Bible And she arose and bowed with her face to the ground and said, “Behold, your maidservant is a servant-woman to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” Amplified Bible And she stood and bowed with her face to the ground and said, “Behold, your maidservant is [ready to be] a maid to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.” Berean Annotated Bible She arose, bowed facedown, and said, “Here is your servant, ready to serve and to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” Christian Standard Bible She stood up, paid homage with her face to the ground, and said, “Here I am, your servant, a slave to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” Holman Christian Standard Bible She stood up, then bowed her face to the ground and said, “Here I am, your servant, to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” American Standard Version And she arose, and bowed herself with her face to the earth, and said, Behold, thy handmaid is a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord. Contemporary English Version She bowed down and said, "I would willingly be David's slave and wash his servants' feet." English Revised Version And she arose, and bowed herself with her face to the earth, and said, Behold, thine handmaid is a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord. GOD'S WORD® Translation She bowed down with her face touching the ground. "I am ready to serve," she said. "I am ready to wash the feet of my master's servants." Good News Translation Abigail bowed down to the ground and said, "I am his servant, ready to wash the feet of his servants." International Standard Version She got up, prostrated herself face down on the ground, and replied, "Your servant would be a slave to wash the feet of your majesty's servants." NET Bible She arose, bowed her face toward the ground, and said, "Your female servant, like a lowly servant, will wash the feet of the servants of my lord." New Heart English Bible She got up and bowed herself with her face to the ground, and said, "Look, your servant is a lowly servant to wash the feet of your servants." Webster's Bible Translation And she arose, and bowed herself on her face to the earth, and said, Behold, let thy handmaid be a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleShe arose, bowed facedown, and said, “Here is your servant, ready to serve and to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” World English Bible She arose and bowed herself with her face to the earth, and said, “Behold, your servant is a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.” Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd she rises and bows herself—face to the earth—and says, “Behold, your handmaid [is] for a maidservant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.” Berean Literal Bible And she arose and bowed her face to the earth, and said, “Here is your maidservant, a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.” Young's Literal Translation And she riseth and boweth herself -- face to the earth -- and saith, 'Lo, thy handmaid is for a maid-servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.' Smith's Literal Translation And she will rise and worship with the face to the earth, and say, Behold, thy servant for a servant to wash the feet of my lord's servants. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd she arose and bowed herself down with her face to the earth, and said: Behold, let thy servant be a handmaid, to wash the feet of the servants of my lord. Catholic Public Domain Version And rising up, she reverenced prone on the ground, and she said, “Behold, let your servant be a handmaid, to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.” New American Bible Rising and bowing to the ground, she answered, “Let your maidservant be the slave who washes the feet of my lord’s servants.” New Revised Standard Version She rose and bowed down, with her face to the ground, and said, “Your servant is a slave to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd she arose and bowed herself on her face to the earth, and said, Behold, let your handmaid be a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And she arose and she bowed down on her face on the ground and she said: “Now your MaidServant is a MaidServant to wash the feet of the Servants of my Lord!” OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917And she arose, and bowed down with her face to the earth, and said: 'Behold, thy handmaid is a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.' Brenton Septuagint Translation And she arose, and did reverence with her face to the earth, and said, Behold, thy servant is for an handmaid to wash the feet of thy servants. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context David Marries Abigail…40When his servants came to Abigail at Carmel, they said, “David has sent us to take you as his wife.” 41She arose, then bowed facedown and said, “Here is your maidservant, ready to serve and to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” 42So Abigail hurried and got on a donkey, and attended by five of her maidens, she followed David’s messengers and became his wife.… Cross References She arose, Ruth 1:6 When Naomi heard in Moab that the LORD had attended to His people by providing them with food, she and her daughters-in-law prepared to leave the land of Moab. Luke 1:39 In those days Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judah, Luke 8:55 Her spirit returned, and at once she got up. And He directed that she be given something to eat. bowed facedown, 1 Samuel 24:8 After that, David got up, went out of the cave, and called out to Saul, “My lord the king!” When Saul looked behind him, David bowed facedown in reverence Genesis 33:3 But Jacob himself went on ahead and bowed to the ground seven times as he approached his brother. Exodus 34:8 Moses immediately bowed down to the ground and worshiped. and said, 2 Samuel 14:4 When the woman from Tekoa went to the king, she fell facedown in homage and said, “Help me, O king!” Esther 7:3 Queen Esther replied, “If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, grant me my life as my petition, and the lives of my people as my request. Genesis 18:27 Then Abraham answered, “Now that I have ventured to speak to the Lord—though I am but dust and ashes— “Here is your servant, 2 Samuel 9:6 And when Mephibosheth son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, came to David, he fell facedown in reverence. Then David said, “Mephibosheth!” “I am your servant,” he replied. Luke 1:38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it happen to me according to your word.” Then the angel left her. 1 Samuel 17:32 And David said to Saul, “Let no man’s heart fail on account of this Philistine. Your servant will go and fight him!” ready to serve Mark 10:45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Luke 22:27 For who is greater, the one who reclines at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines? But I am among you as one who serves. Mark 9:35 Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the last of all and the servant of all.” and to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” Genesis 18:4 Let a little water be brought, that you may wash your feet and rest yourselves under the tree. Treasury of Scripture And she arose, and bowed herself on her face to the earth, and said, Behold, let your handmaid be a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord. thine Ruth 2:10,13 Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger? … Proverbs 15:33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility. Proverbs 18:12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility. to wash Genesis 18:4 Let a little water, I pray you, be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree: John 13:3-5 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God; … 1 Timothy 5:10 Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work. Jump to Previous Bondwoman Bowed Boweth Earth Handmaid Herself Lord's Maid Maidservant Maid-Servant Ready Riseth Rose Servant Servant-Girl Servants Serve WashJump to Next Bondwoman Bowed Boweth Earth Handmaid Herself Lord's Maid Maidservant Maid-Servant Ready Riseth Rose Servant Servant-Girl Servants Serve Wash1 Samuel 25 1. Samuel dies2. David in Paran sends to Nabal 10. Provoked by Nabal's rudeness, he minds to destroy him 14. Abigail understanding thereof 18. takes a present 23. and by her wisdom 32. pacifies David 36. Nabal hearing thereof, dies 39. David takes Abigail and Ahinoam to be his wives 44. Michal is given to Phalti She arose This phrase indicates Abigail's immediate and respectful response to David's proposal. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, rising to one's feet was a sign of readiness and respect. Abigail's actions demonstrate her willingness to act decisively and honorably, reflecting her character as a wise and discerning woman. bowed facedown and said, “Here is your servant, ready to serve and to wash the feet of my lord’s servants.” Persons / Places / Events 1. AbigailA wise and discerning woman, previously the wife of Nabal, who becomes David's wife after Nabal's death. Her humility and willingness to serve are highlighted in this verse. 2. David The future king of Israel, who is on the run from King Saul. He sends messengers to Abigail to propose marriage after Nabal's death. 3. Nabal Abigail's first husband, described as harsh and evil in his dealings. His refusal to help David leads to his demise. 4. David’s Servants The messengers sent by David to Abigail to convey his proposal of marriage. 5. Carmel The place where Abigail lived with Nabal and where the events of 1 Samuel 25 unfold. Teaching Points Humility in ServiceAbigail’s response to David’s proposal is marked by humility. She offers to wash the feet of his servants, a task considered lowly. This teaches us the importance of serving others with a humble heart, regardless of our status. Wisdom in Action Abigail’s actions throughout 1 Samuel 25 demonstrate wisdom and discernment. Her ability to act wisely in difficult situations is a model for us to seek God’s wisdom in our decisions. God’s Providence The events leading to Abigail becoming David’s wife show God’s providential care and timing. Trusting in God’s plan, even when circumstances seem dire, is crucial for believers. Role of Women in Scripture Abigail’s account highlights the significant role women play in God’s account. Her courage and wisdom are celebrated, reminding us of the value and impact of women in the faith community. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 25:41?2. How does Abigail's humility in 1 Samuel 25:41 inspire our daily service? 3. What can we learn from Abigail's response about submission to God's will? 4. How does Abigail's attitude connect with Philippians 2:3 on humility? 5. In what ways can we emulate Abigail's servant-heartedness in our communities? 6. How does Abigail's example challenge our understanding of leadership and servanthood? 7. What does Abigail's response in 1 Samuel 25:41 reveal about humility and servitude in biblical times? 8. How does 1 Samuel 25:41 reflect the cultural norms regarding women in ancient Israel? 9. What theological significance does Abigail's gesture in 1 Samuel 25:41 hold for Christian servanthood? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 25? 11. 1 Samuel 25:39–42 – How do we reconcile David marrying Abigail immediately after Nabal’s death with biblical laws and cultural norms on mourning and remarriage? 12. 1 Samuel 2:25 suggests the Lord intended to kill Eli's sons--how does this reconcile with the concept of a merciful, forgiving deity? 13. 1 Samuel 25:21-22 - Why would David, future king, threaten such violence over a refusal of hospitality, seemingly contradicting biblical ethics of mercy? 14. What does the Bible say about foot washing? What Does 1 Samuel 25:41 Mean She arose• Abigail moves immediately after David’s proposal (1 Samuel 25:39–40), showing decisive obedience. • Rising in response to God’s unfolding plan echoes women of faith like Deborah (Judges 4:9) and the Proverbs 31 woman who “rises while it is still night” (Proverbs 31:15). • Genuine faith doesn’t hesitate; it acts (James 2:22). bowed facedown • Her posture signals deep humility before David, God’s anointed future king (1 Samuel 16:13). • Similar reverence appears when Abraham bowed before the three visitors (Genesis 18:2) and Ruth bowed before Boaz (Ruth 2:10), underscoring respect for God’s provision. • Scripture exalts those who humble themselves (James 4:10). and said • Words follow actions; Abigail’s speech matches her posture. • Scripture warns against empty talk (1 John 3:18). Here, confession and conduct align. • David earlier praised her discernment (1 Samuel 25:32-33); her speech continues to display wisdom (Proverbs 15:23). "Here is your servant" • Abigail adopts the identity of servant, mirroring saints like Eliezer (“I am Abraham’s servant,” Genesis 24:34) and Mary (“I am the Lord’s servant,” Luke 1:38). • A servant mindset signals surrender to God’s purposes (Romans 6:22). "ready to serve" • Readiness conveys eagerness, not reluctance—like Isaiah’s “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8). • Christ models this heart: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45). • Availability precedes ability in kingdom work (2 Timothy 2:21). "and to wash the feet" • Foot-washing epitomizes humble service; Abigail offers what the lowest household servant performed. • Jesus later applies the same act to teach servant leadership (John 13:14-15). • Early church widows known “for washing the feet of the saints” were commended (1 Timothy 5:10). • True greatness is measured by willingness to take the lowest place (Luke 22:26-27). "of my lord’s servants" • Abigail’s humility extends beyond David to those under him. She honors the whole household, echoing “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me” (Matthew 25:40). • Considering others above self fulfills Philippians 2:3-4. • Serving God’s people is inseparable from serving God Himself (Hebrews 6:10). summary Abigail’s response in 1 Samuel 25:41 layers quick obedience, profound humility, servant identity, eager readiness, and practical acts of self-abasement, not just to David but to his attendants. The verse calls every believer to rise without delay, bow the heart, speak consistently with faith, embrace servanthood, stay ready, choose the humblest task, and honor even the least among God’s people—living proof that greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by lowly, loving service. Hebrew She arose,וַתָּ֕קָם (wat·tā·qām) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular Strong's 6965: To arise, stand up, stand then bowed וַתִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ (wat·tiš·ta·ḥū) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hitpael - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular Strong's 7812: To depress, prostrate facedown אַפַּ֖יִם (’ap·pa·yim) Noun - md Strong's 639: The nose, nostril, the face, a person, ire and said, וַתֹּ֗אמֶר (wat·tō·mer) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular Strong's 559: To utter, say “Here is הִנֵּ֤ה (hin·nêh) Interjection Strong's 2009: Lo! behold! your maidservant, אֲמָֽתְךָ֙ (’ă·mā·ṯə·ḵā) Noun - feminine singular construct | second person masculine singular Strong's 519: A maidservant, female slave ready to serve לְשִׁפְחָ֔ה (lə·šip̄·ḥāh) Preposition-l | Noun - feminine singular Strong's 8198: Maid, maidservant and to wash לִרְחֹ֕ץ (lir·ḥōṣ) Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct Strong's 7364: To wash, wash off or away, bathe the feet רַגְלֵ֖י (raḡ·lê) Noun - fdc Strong's 7272: A foot, a step, the pudenda of my lord’s אֲדֹנִֽי׃ (’ă·ḏō·nî) Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular Strong's 113: Sovereign, controller servants.” עַבְדֵ֥י (‘aḇ·ḏê) Noun - masculine plural construct Strong's 5650: Slave, servant Links 1 Samuel 25:41 NIV1 Samuel 25:41 NLT 1 Samuel 25:41 ESV 1 Samuel 25:41 NASB 1 Samuel 25:41 KJV 1 Samuel 25:41 BibleApps.com 1 Samuel 25:41 Biblia Paralela 1 Samuel 25:41 Chinese Bible 1 Samuel 25:41 French Bible 1 Samuel 25:41 Catholic Bible OT History: 1 Samuel 25:41 She arose and bowed herself with her (1Sa iSam 1 Sam i sa) |
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