Old Testament
1 Samuel 22:17
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Then the king ordered his guards, "Go and kill the priests of the LORD, because they sided with David. They knew he was running from me and didn't tell me." But the king's guards refused to raise a hand against the priests of the LORD.
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And the king said unto the footmen that stood about him, Turn, and slay the priests of the LORD: because their hand also is with David, and because they knew when he fled, and did not shew it to me. But the servants of the king would not put forth their hand to fall upon the priests of the LORD.
What 1 Samuel 22:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, King Saul is consumed by jealousy and fear of David, who he sees as a threat to his throne. He orders his guards to kill the priests who helped David, believing they betrayed him. However, the guards refuse to carry out this brutal command, showing their respect for the priests and their loyalty to God. This act of defiance highlights the moral conflict between following a corrupt leader and adhering to one's conscience. The priests, innocent in this situation, become victims of Saul's paranoia. Their refusal to betray David demonstrates the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of danger. This story serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of unchecked power and the value of integrity. It challenges us to consider how we respond to authority when it conflicts with our values and beliefs. Ultimately, it emphasizes the need for courage in the pursuit of justice and righteousness, even when it is difficult to do so in a hostile environment.
How to apply 1 Samuel 22:17 to your life
When faced with difficult choices, we must evaluate our values and the impact of our decisions. Like the guards, we can choose to stand up for what is right, even when it is unpopular. This story encourages us to be brave in our convictions and to support those who are unjustly treated. Remember, integrity often requires courage in challenging situations. Stand firm in your beliefs and act with compassion towards others in need.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from David's story: Saul Kills the Priests of Nob (1 Samuel 22:6–23)
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David
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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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 22:17 mean?
1 Samuel 22:17 describes King Saul's command to kill the priests of the LORD because they aided David. This reflects Saul's paranoia and jealousy, as he views David as a threat to his kingship. The guards' refusal to obey highlights their respect for the priests and moral integrity.
What is the significance of the guards' refusal in 1 Samuel 22:17?
The guards' refusal to kill the priests shows their loyalty to God and moral courage. It illustrates the conflict between following a corrupt leader and adhering to one's conscience, emphasizing the importance of standing up for what is right.
What themes are present in 1 Samuel 22:17?
Key themes in 1 Samuel 22:17 include betrayal, loyalty, courage, integrity, and authority. The verse illustrates the dangers of power when misused and the importance of standing firm in one's beliefs against injustice.
How does 1 Samuel 22:17 relate to integrity?
1 Samuel 22:17 highlights integrity through the guards' decision to refuse Saul's orders. Their choice to protect the innocent priests, despite the risk to themselves, underscores the importance of moral courage and standing up for justice.
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