Old Testament
1 Samuel 20:7
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If he says, 'That's fine,' then I'm safe. But if he flies into a rage, you'll know he's made up his mind to harm me.
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If he say thus, It is well; thy servant shall have peace: but if he be very wroth, then be sure that evil is determined by him.
What 1 Samuel 20:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, David is trying to understand King Saul's feelings towards him. He knows that Saul's reaction will reveal his true intentions. If Saul responds calmly, David feels safe and believes there is no threat against him. However, if Saul becomes angry, it will signal that he has decided to harm David. This moment highlights the tension in their relationship and David's need to navigate it carefully. David is seeking clarity about his safety and the loyalty of those around him. His awareness of Saul's mood shows his wisdom and caution in a dangerous situation. This verse illustrates the importance of reading people's emotions and intentions, especially when your safety is at stake. It reminds us that sometimes, understanding others' reactions can be crucial for our well-being and decision-making in life. David's situation is a powerful reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the need for discernment in our interactions with others. It encourages us to be observant and thoughtful in our own lives.
How to apply 1 Samuel 20:7 to your life
In your own life, pay attention to the emotions and reactions of those around you. Understanding how others feel can help you navigate relationships more effectively. Trust your instincts when you sense danger or conflict. Being aware of these dynamics can protect you and guide your decisions wisely. Stay observant and thoughtful in your interactions with others, as it can make a significant difference in your safety and peace.
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 20:7
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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 20:7 mean?
1 Samuel 20:7 shows David trying to gauge King Saul's feelings towards him. David believes that Saul's reaction will indicate whether he is safe or in danger.
What is the meaning of 'very wroth' in 1 Samuel 20:7?
In 1 Samuel 20:7, 'very wroth' means extremely angry. David understands that if Saul reacts with intense anger, it signals that he intends to harm him.
How does 1 Samuel 20:7 relate to trust?
1 Samuel 20:7 illustrates the theme of trust, as David seeks to understand whether he can trust Saul based on his emotional reaction. David's safety depends on interpreting Saul's feelings accurately.
What can we learn from 1 Samuel 20:7 about relationships?
From 1 Samuel 20:7, we learn the importance of being aware of others' emotions in relationships. Understanding how someone feels can help us navigate potential conflicts and ensure our safety.
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