Old Testament
1 Samuel 25:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Why should I take my bread, my water, and the meat I've slaughtered for my shearers and hand it over to men I've never even heard of?"
Compare translations
Shall I then take my bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my shearers, and give it unto men, whom I know not whence they be?
What 1 Samuel 25:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a man named Nabal is expressing his frustration about sharing his resources. He questions why he should give away his food and drink to strangers he doesn't know. Nabal feels that his hard work and the provisions he has prepared for his workers should not be given to people who haven't earned it or who he has no relationship with. This highlights a common human instinct to protect what we have and to be cautious about sharing with those we don't know. Nabal's response reflects a mindset focused on self-preservation and a lack of generosity. It raises questions about how we view our resources and our willingness to help others, especially those who are unfamiliar to us. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the potential benefits of being open-hearted, even when it feels risky. Nabal's attitude contrasts with the values of kindness and hospitality that are often encouraged in relationships with others, especially those in need.
How to apply 1 Samuel 25:11 to your life
Consider how you view your resources and whether you are open to sharing them with others. Reflect on opportunities to help those in need, even if they are strangers. Being generous can create connections and foster a sense of community that benefits everyone involved. Don't let fear of the unknown hold you back from kindness. Embrace the chance to make a difference in someone's life today.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Abigail Stops David (1 Samuel 25:1–42)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Samuel 25:11
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Samuel 25:11
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 25:11 mean?
In 1 Samuel 25:11, Nabal is expressing his reluctance to share his resources with strangers. He questions why he should give away his food and drink to people he does not know, reflecting a mindset focused on self-preservation and a lack of generosity.
What is the meaning of generosity in 1 Samuel 25:11?
Generosity in 1 Samuel 25:11 is contrasted with Nabal's refusal to share his provisions. The verse highlights the importance of being open-hearted and willing to help others, even those who are unfamiliar, as a way to foster community and kindness.
How does Nabal's attitude in 1 Samuel 25:11 reflect self-preservation?
Nabal's attitude in this verse shows self-preservation as he prioritizes his own needs and resources over helping others. He feels justified in withholding his provisions from strangers, which highlights a fear of the unknown and a reluctance to share.
What lessons can we learn from 1 Samuel 25:11?
From 1 Samuel 25:11, we learn the importance of being generous and open to sharing our resources. It encourages us to reflect on our willingness to help those in need, even if they are strangers, and to consider the benefits of fostering community through kindness.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.