2 Samuel 1:14

So David asked him, "Why were you not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the LORD's anointed?"

Study Bible

Then David asked him
This phrase introduces David's direct confrontation with the Amalekite who claimed to have killed Saul. The Hebrew root for "asked" is "שָׁאַל" (sha'al), which can also mean to inquire or demand. This indicates David's serious and probing nature in seeking the truth. David's leadership is marked by his commitment to justice and righteousness, reflecting his heart after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14).

Why were you not afraid
The word "afraid" comes from the Hebrew "יָרֵא" (yare), which implies a deep reverence or fear. In the context of ancient Israel, fear of the LORD was foundational to wisdom and obedience (Proverbs 9:10). David's question underscores the expectation that reverence for God should deter one from committing acts against His anointed. This reflects a broader biblical principle that fear of God should guide moral and ethical decisions.

to lift your hand
The phrase "lift your hand" is a Hebrew idiom for taking action, particularly in a violent or aggressive manner. In the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East, raising one's hand against a king was seen as an act of rebellion and treason. This phrase highlights the gravity of the Amalekite's claim and the audacity of his actions against God's chosen leader.

to destroy
The Hebrew word for "destroy" is "שָׁחַת" (shachat), which can mean to ruin, corrupt, or annihilate. This term conveys the severity of the act against Saul, the LORD’s anointed. In biblical theology, destruction is often associated with divine judgment, yet here it is used to describe a human act against God’s appointed king, emphasizing the Amalekite's grave sin.

the LORD’s anointed
The term "anointed" is derived from the Hebrew "מָשִׁיחַ" (mashiach), meaning "Messiah" or "anointed one." In the Old Testament, kings, priests, and prophets were anointed with oil as a sign of being set apart for God’s service. Saul, despite his failures, was still the LORD’s anointed, and David consistently respected this divine appointment (1 Samuel 24:6). This respect for God’s anointed reflects a deep understanding of God’s sovereignty and the sacredness of His choices.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart after God and his complex life of triumphs and failures. In this passage, he is responding to the news of King Saul's death.

2. The Amalekite
A young man who claimed to have killed Saul, expecting a reward from David. His actions and words are central to the unfolding of this account.

3. Saul
The first king of Israel, anointed by God but later rejected due to disobedience. His death marks a significant transition in Israel's history.

4. The LORD’s Anointed
A term used to describe someone chosen by God for a specific purpose, in this case, King Saul. It underscores the sacredness of God's chosen leaders.

5. Mount Gilboa
The location where Saul and his sons died in battle against the Philistines, setting the stage for the events in this chapter.

Teaching Points

Respect for God’s Anointed
David’s reaction highlights the importance of respecting those whom God has placed in positions of authority, even when they are flawed.

The Fear of the Lord
The Amalekite’s lack of fear in killing Saul contrasts with David’s reverence for God’s anointed, teaching us about the importance of fearing God in our actions.

Integrity in Leadership
David’s consistent respect for Saul, despite Saul’s pursuit of him, demonstrates integrity and faithfulness to God’s principles.

God’s Sovereignty in Leadership
Recognizing that God appoints leaders, and our role is to respect and pray for them, trusting in God’s ultimate plan.

Consequences of Disobedience
The Amalekite’s fate serves as a warning about the consequences of taking matters into our own hands and acting against God’s will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David’s response to the Amalekite reflect his understanding of God’s authority and anointing?

2. In what ways can we show respect for those in authority over us, even when we disagree with them?

3. How does the concept of "the LORD’s anointed" apply to our lives today, particularly in the context of church leadership?

4. What can we learn from David’s example about handling conflicts with those who oppose us?

5. How do the principles in 2 Samuel 1:14 challenge us to examine our own actions and attitudes towards God’s appointed leaders?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 24:6
David previously spared Saul's life, demonstrating his respect for the LORD's anointed, which provides context for his reaction in 2 Samuel 1:14.

1 Chronicles 16:22
This verse reiterates the principle of not harming the LORD's anointed, emphasizing the sacredness of God's chosen leaders.

Romans 13:1
This New Testament passage speaks to respecting authorities, as they are established by God, echoing the respect David shows for Saul.