Old Testament
1 Samuel 20:29
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He said, 'Please let me go. Our family is holding a sacrifice in the city, and my brother insisted I be there. If you'll do me this favor, please let me slip away and see my brothers.' That's why he hasn't come to the king's table."
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And he said, Let me go, I pray thee; for our family hath a sacrifice in the city; and my brother, he hath commanded me to be there: and now, if I have found favour in thine eyes, let me get away, I pray thee, and see my brethren. Therefore he cometh not unto the king’s table.
What 1 Samuel 20:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, a young man is asking for permission to leave a gathering. He explains that his family is hosting a special sacrifice in the city, and his brother has specifically requested his presence. This request highlights the importance of family obligations and traditions. The young man is trying to navigate his responsibilities while also being respectful to the king. He emphasizes that this is the reason he has not been at the king's table. His words reflect a deep sense of loyalty to his family, showing how personal relationships can sometimes take precedence over royal duties. This moment reveals the tension between personal commitments and public expectations, a theme that resonates with many of us today. It reminds us that we often have to balance our obligations to family and friends with our responsibilities in other areas of life. Understanding this balance is crucial for maintaining healthy relationships and fulfilling our roles in various aspects of life.
How to apply 1 Samuel 20:29 to your life
Consider your own commitments and how they affect your relationships. Are there times when you need to prioritize family or friends over other obligations? Reflect on how you can balance these responsibilities while still honoring your commitments to others. This balance is essential for a fulfilling life and strong relationships. Remember, it's okay to ask for understanding when you need to prioritize personal matters over public ones.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from David's story: Jonathan's Arrows (1 Samuel 20:1–42)
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David
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying 1 Samuel 20:29
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 20:29 mean?
1 Samuel 20:29 describes a young man requesting permission to leave a gathering to attend a family sacrifice. It highlights the importance of family obligations and the tension between personal commitments and public duties.
What is the significance of family in 1 Samuel 20:29?
In this verse, family plays a crucial role as the young man prioritizes his brother's request to attend a sacrifice over his presence at the king's table, illustrating the value of familial loyalty.
How does 1 Samuel 20:29 relate to personal commitments?
1 Samuel 20:29 shows how personal commitments, like family obligations, can sometimes take precedence over public responsibilities, reminding us of the need to balance these aspects in our lives.
What themes are present in 1 Samuel 20:29?
The themes in 1 Samuel 20:29 include family obligations, loyalty, personal commitments, and public expectations, illustrating the complexities of navigating relationships and responsibilities.
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