1 Samuel 22:13

And Saul asked him, "Why have you and the son of Jesse conspired against me? You gave him bread and a sword and inquired of God for him so that he could rise up against me to lie in wait, as he is doing today."

Study Bible

And Saul said to him
This phrase introduces King Saul, the first king of Israel, who is speaking. Saul's reign began with promise but was marred by disobedience and jealousy, particularly towards David, the "son of Jesse." The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) often implies a declaration or command, reflecting Saul's authoritative yet increasingly paranoid leadership. Historically, Saul's insecurity grows as David's popularity and God's favor upon him become evident.

Why have you conspired against me
The word "conspired" (קָשַׁר, qashar) in Hebrew suggests a binding or joining together for a secretive purpose. Saul accuses Ahimelech, the priest, of treason, reflecting his deepening paranoia and fear of losing his throne. This accusation is unfounded, as Ahimelech acted innocently, unaware of the full extent of Saul's animosity towards David. Saul's question reveals his distorted perception of loyalty and threat.

you and the son of Jesse
"Son of Jesse" is a reference to David, emphasizing his humble origins. Saul's refusal to use David's name may indicate disdain or an attempt to diminish David's status. This phrase highlights the tension between Saul and David, who is anointed by God to be the next king. The historical context shows David as a rising figure, beloved by the people and chosen by God, which fuels Saul's jealousy.

giving him bread and a sword
Bread and a sword symbolize sustenance and protection. Ahimelech provided David with the showbread and Goliath's sword, acts of kindness and support. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, providing bread was a sign of hospitality and alliance. The sword, a weapon of war, signifies empowerment. Saul interprets these actions as aiding an enemy, though Ahimelech's intentions were not conspiratorial.

and inquiring of God for him
Inquiring of God (שָׁאַל, sha'al) refers to seeking divine guidance, a common practice for priests. Ahimelech's inquiry was a priestly duty, not an act of rebellion. This phrase underscores the spiritual dimension of the conflict, where Saul feels threatened by David's divine favor. Historically, Saul's own disobedience led to God's silence towards him, intensifying his fear of David's relationship with God.

so that he has risen up against me
The phrase "risen up" (קוּם, qum) implies rebellion or insurrection. Saul perceives David's actions as a direct challenge to his authority. However, David's rise is ordained by God, contrasting Saul's decline due to disobedience. This reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty in raising leaders according to His purpose, despite human opposition.

to lie in wait
"Lying in wait" (אָרַב, 'arab) suggests an ambush or premeditated attack. Saul's accusation is baseless, as David never sought to harm Saul. This phrase reveals Saul's irrational fear and the extent of his delusion. Scripturally, it highlights the destructive nature of jealousy and the importance of trusting in God's plan rather than succumbing to fear and suspicion.

as is the case today
This concluding phrase emphasizes the immediacy and urgency of Saul's perceived threat. It reflects Saul's belief that David's supposed rebellion is an ongoing and present danger. Historically, this moment marks a turning point in Saul's reign, where his actions become increasingly driven by fear rather than faith. It serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of straying from God's guidance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is increasingly paranoid and sees David as a threat to his throne.

2. David (Son of Jesse)
Anointed by God to be the next king of Israel, currently fleeing from Saul's attempts to kill him.

3. Ahimelech
The priest who unknowingly aids David by giving him bread and a sword, and inquiring of God for him.

4. Nob
The city of priests where Ahimelech resides and where David receives help.

5. Conspiracy
Saul accuses Ahimelech and David of conspiring against him, reflecting his growing paranoia and detachment from God's will.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Paranoia and Fear
Saul's fear leads him to see enemies where there are none, causing harm to innocent people. We must guard against letting fear cloud our judgment and lead us away from God's truth.

The Role of God's Anointed
David, though anointed, waits for God's timing to ascend to the throne. This teaches us patience and trust in God's plan, even when circumstances are difficult.

The Importance of Discernment
Ahimelech's actions were innocent, yet they were misinterpreted by Saul. We must seek God's wisdom to discern truth from falsehood in our interactions with others.

God's Sovereignty in Trials
Despite Saul's actions, God's plan for David remains intact. This reminds us that God's purposes will prevail, even when we face opposition.

Mercy Over Sacrifice
Jesus' reference to this event highlights the importance of mercy and understanding God's heart, rather than rigid adherence to rules.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's accusation against Ahimelech reflect his spiritual state and relationship with God?

2. In what ways can fear and paranoia affect our relationships and decision-making today?

3. How does David's response to being pursued by Saul demonstrate trust in God's timing and sovereignty?

4. What can we learn from Ahimelech's actions about the importance of helping others, even when it might be risky?

5. How does Jesus' reference to this event in Matthew 12 challenge us to prioritize mercy and understanding in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 15
Saul's disobedience to God, which leads to his rejection as king, setting the stage for his paranoia and fear of David.

Psalm 52
Written by David concerning Doeg the Edomite, who reports to Saul about Ahimelech's assistance to David, leading to the massacre of the priests.

Matthew 12:1-8
Jesus references David's actions at Nob to illustrate the principle of mercy over sacrifice, showing the importance of understanding God's heart.