1 Samuel 30:12

a piece of a fig cake and two clusters of raisins. So he ate and was revived, for he had not had any food or water for three days and three nights.

Study Bible

and gave him a piece of a fig cake
In the ancient Near East, figs were a staple food, often dried and pressed into cakes for easy transport and storage. The Hebrew word for "fig cake" is "devela," which refers to a compact mass of dried figs. This act of giving a fig cake symbolizes hospitality and care, reflecting the biblical principle of providing for those in need. In a spiritual sense, it can be seen as a metaphor for the sustenance and revival that God provides to His people, nourishing them both physically and spiritually.

and two clusters of raisins
Raisins, like figs, were a common food item in biblical times, made by drying grapes. The Hebrew word "tsimmuqim" refers to these dried grapes. Raisins were valued for their energy-giving properties, making them an ideal food for someone who was weak or in distress. The provision of raisins alongside the fig cake underscores the completeness of the care given to the man, ensuring he receives both immediate energy and longer-lasting nourishment. This reflects God's comprehensive provision for His people, meeting all their needs.

So he ate and was revived
The act of eating and being revived is significant, as it demonstrates the restorative power of physical nourishment. The Hebrew word "chayah" means to live or revive, indicating a return to strength and vitality. This revival is not just physical but can also be seen as a metaphor for spiritual renewal. In the broader biblical narrative, God often uses physical acts to signify spiritual truths, reminding believers of the importance of both physical and spiritual sustenance.

for he had not eaten any food or drunk any water
This phrase highlights the dire condition of the man before receiving help. The absence of food and water for an extended period signifies extreme deprivation and vulnerability. In the biblical context, fasting or lack of sustenance often precedes a significant encounter with God or a turning point in the narrative. It serves as a reminder of human frailty and the dependence on God's provision for survival and strength.

for three days and three nights
The mention of "three days and three nights" is a recurring motif in the Bible, often associated with periods of trial, waiting, or transformation. In Hebrew culture, the number three signifies completeness or wholeness. This time frame emphasizes the severity of the man's condition and the miraculous nature of his revival. It also foreshadows the resurrection theme found throughout Scripture, where after a period of death or despair, there is a return to life and hope, ultimately pointing to the resurrection of Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, who is leading his men in pursuit of the Amalekites who had raided Ziklag.

2. The Egyptian Servant
A young man found in the field, abandoned by his Amalekite master because he fell ill.

3. Ziklag
The town given to David by the Philistine king Achish, which was raided and burned by the Amalekites.

4. Amalekites
A nomadic tribe that attacked Ziklag, taking captives and plundering the town.

5. David's Men
The group of warriors loyal to David, who are with him in pursuit of the Amalekites.

Teaching Points

Compassion in Action
David's men demonstrate compassion by providing for the Egyptian servant's physical needs, reminding us of the importance of mercy and kindness.

Revival through Provision
The physical revival of the Egyptian servant after receiving food and water illustrates how meeting basic needs can lead to restoration and strength.

God's Sovereignty in Circumstances
The encounter with the Egyptian servant was providential, showing how God can use unexpected situations to fulfill His purposes.

The Power of Generosity
The act of giving, even to a stranger or enemy, can lead to unexpected blessings and alliances.

Faith in Action
True faith is demonstrated through tangible acts of kindness and provision for those in need.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of feeding the Egyptian servant reflect the biblical principle of loving your neighbor, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does this passage demonstrate God's sovereignty and provision, and how can we trust God in our own challenging circumstances?

3. How can the account of the Egyptian servant inspire us to show compassion to those who are marginalized or abandoned in our society?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure our faith is active and not just theoretical, as seen in the actions of David's men?

5. How does the revival of the Egyptian servant after receiving food and water parallel spiritual revival, and what steps can we take to experience spiritual renewal in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 25:35-40
This passage speaks about the importance of caring for those in need, reflecting the compassion David's men showed to the Egyptian servant.

Isaiah 58:7
This verse emphasizes sharing food with the hungry, paralleling the act of giving food to the Egyptian servant.

Luke 10:33-34
The Good Samaritan account highlights the importance of showing mercy and compassion, similar to David's actions.

Proverbs 25:21-22
Advises feeding your enemy if he is hungry, which aligns with David's treatment of the Egyptian, who was part of the enemy camp.

James 2:15-16
Discusses the necessity of providing for physical needs as an expression of faith, akin to the care given to the Egyptian servant.