Old Testament

1 Samuel 25:34

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this passage, David is speaking to Abigail, Nabal's wife, after she intervenes to prevent David from taking revenge on her husband.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
Written
Around 930 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
The Israelites of the early monarchy
CBTClear Bible Translation

Because as surely as the LORD, the God of Israel, lives, who has kept me from harming you, if you hadn't hurried to meet me, by morning there would not have been left to Nabal any that pisseth against the wall.

KJVKing James Version

For in very deed, as the LORD God of Israel liveth, which hath kept me back from hurting thee, except thou hadst hasted and come to meet me, surely there had not been left unto Nabal by the morning light any that pisseth against the wall.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, David is speaking to Abigail, Nabal's wife, after she intervenes to prevent David from taking revenge on her husband. David acknowledges that it was God who stopped him from causing harm. He emphasizes the urgency of Abigail's actions, suggesting that if she hadn't come quickly, there would have been severe consequences for Nabal and his household. The phrase about 'any that pisseth against the wall' refers to all the males in Nabal's household, indicating total destruction. David's words reflect his respect for God's guidance and the importance of wise intervention. This moment highlights the power of quick thinking and the impact one person can have in averting disaster. It also shows David's character, as he chooses mercy over vengeance, recognizing the value of life and relationships. Abigail's wisdom and courage are celebrated here, demonstrating how one can influence others positively, even in tense situations. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to wise counsel and acting swiftly in difficult circumstances.

Key themes

Related topics

mercy, wisdom, consequences

How to apply 1 Samuel 25:34 to your life

When faced with conflict, consider the impact of your actions. Like Abigail, be proactive in seeking peace and resolution. Your quick response can change the course of events for the better. Always listen to wise advice and act with compassion in challenging situations. Choose mercy over anger whenever possible, as it can lead to healing and understanding in relationships.

Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does 1 Samuel 25:34 mean?

1 Samuel 25:34 shows David acknowledging that God prevented him from harming Nabal after Abigail intervened. David emphasizes that if Abigail hadn't acted quickly, Nabal and his household would have faced severe consequences.

What is the significance of 'pisseth against the wall' in 1 Samuel 25:34?

The phrase 'any that pisseth against the wall' refers to all the males in Nabal's household. It signifies total destruction, highlighting the seriousness of David's potential revenge.

How does 1 Samuel 25:34 relate to the theme of mercy?

In 1 Samuel 25:34, David chooses not to harm Nabal due to Abigail's wise intervention, demonstrating mercy over vengeance. This highlights the value of compassion in resolving conflicts.

What lesson can we learn from 1 Samuel 25:34?

The lesson from 1 Samuel 25:34 is the importance of acting quickly and wisely in conflict situations. Like Abigail, being proactive and listening to wise advice can prevent disaster and promote peace.

The Book of 1 Samuel
Book Summary

The Book of 1 Samuel

1 Samuel 1: The Birth of Samuel

The book opens during the time of the judges, introducing a man named Elkanah with two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. While Peninnah has children, Hannah is barren and is cruelly taunted by her rival. During their annual pilgrimage to the sanctuary at Shiloh, the deeply distressed Hannah prays silently to the Lord, weeping and vowing that if God will give her a son, she will dedicate him to the Lord's service for his entire life as a Nazirite. Eli, the high priest, sees her lips moving and initially mistakes her for a drunken woman, but after she explains her sorrowful prayer, he blesses her, saying, "Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition."

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