1 Samuel 22:17

Then the king ordered the guards at his side, "Turn and kill the priests of the LORD, because they too sided with David. For they knew he was fleeing, but they did not tell me." But the king's servants would not lift a hand to strike the priests of the LORD.

Study Bible

Then the king ordered
This phrase indicates the authority and command of King Saul, who was the first king of Israel. The Hebrew word for "ordered" is "amar," which often denotes a spoken command or decree. Saul's order reflects his increasing paranoia and desperation as he perceives David as a threat to his throne. Historically, this moment marks a significant moral decline in Saul's reign, showcasing his willingness to act against God's anointed priests.

the guards standing by him
The guards, or "runners" in some translations, were likely part of Saul's personal bodyguard or royal attendants. The Hebrew term "ratsim" suggests those who were swift and loyal, expected to carry out the king's commands without question. Their presence highlights the tension between royal authority and moral conscience, as they are faced with a command that challenges their ethical and religious beliefs.

Turn and kill the priests of the LORD
This command is shocking in its directness and severity. The priests of the LORD, or "kohanim," were consecrated servants of God, responsible for maintaining the spiritual life of Israel. Saul's order to kill them represents a grave sin, as it directly opposes God's covenant and the sanctity of the priesthood. This act foreshadows the eventual downfall of Saul's kingship, as it demonstrates his complete departure from God's will.

because they too have sided with David
Saul accuses the priests of treason, believing they have allied with David, his perceived rival. The phrase "sided with" implies a betrayal in Saul's eyes, though the priests' actions were likely innocent or misunderstood. This reflects Saul's distorted perception and inability to see God's hand in David's rise, further isolating him from divine guidance.

They knew he was fleeing, but they did not inform me
Saul's accusation that the priests knew of David's flight and failed to report it underscores his paranoia and mistrust. The Hebrew word for "inform" is "gala," meaning to reveal or disclose. This highlights Saul's expectation of loyalty and transparency, which he feels has been violated. However, the priests' silence may have been an act of protection for David, whom they recognized as God's chosen future king.

But the guards refused to lift a hand
The guards' refusal to obey Saul's command is a powerful act of civil disobedience. The phrase "refused to lift a hand" indicates their moral and spiritual conviction, as they choose to honor God over the king's unjust order. This moment of defiance is significant, as it demonstrates the guards' recognition of a higher authority than Saul's earthly power.

to strike down the priests of the LORD
The phrase "strike down" conveys the violence and finality of the act Saul commanded. The guards' refusal to participate in such an atrocity highlights the sanctity of the priesthood and the reverence due to those who serve the LORD. This decision aligns with the broader biblical theme of God's justice and the protection of His anointed, even in the face of human corruption and sin.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. David
The anointed future king of Israel, currently fleeing from Saul's wrath.

3. Priests of the LORD
The religious leaders serving at Nob, who are accused by Saul of siding with David.

4. Guards/Servants of Saul
The king's attendants who are ordered to kill the priests but refuse to do so.

5. Nob
The city of priests where the events take place, highlighting the religious significance of the location.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's disobedience to God leads to irrational decisions and moral decline. Disobedience to God can have far-reaching consequences in our lives.

The Sanctity of God's Servants
The refusal of Saul's guards to kill the priests highlights the respect and reverence due to those who serve God. We should honor and protect those who dedicate their lives to God's service.

Moral Courage
The guards' refusal to obey an unjust order demonstrates the importance of standing up for righteousness, even when it means defying authority. We are called to act justly and uphold God's standards.

The Cost of Following God
The priests' association with David, though it costs them their lives, shows the potential cost of aligning with God's anointed. Following God may require sacrifice and courage.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
Despite the apparent triumph of evil in this passage, God's justice prevails in the end. We can trust in God's ultimate justice and sovereignty over all situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's order to kill the priests reflect his spiritual state and relationship with God?

2. What can we learn from the guards' refusal to carry out Saul's command about standing up for what is right?

3. How does this passage challenge us to consider the cost of following God's anointed leaders in our own lives?

4. In what ways does this event foreshadow the ultimate justice and sovereignty of God, as seen in other parts of Scripture?

5. How can we apply the lessons of moral courage and reverence for God's servants in our daily interactions and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 15
Saul's disobedience to God's command through Samuel, which sets the stage for his downfall and paranoia.

Psalm 52
David's reflection on the treachery of Doeg the Edomite, who ultimately carries out Saul's order.

Matthew 12:1-8
Jesus references David's actions at Nob to illustrate the principle of mercy over sacrifice.

Hebrews 11:32-34
David is listed among the heroes of faith, showing his reliance on God despite Saul's persecution.