King James Version

What Does 1 Samuel 18:15 Mean?

Wherefore when Saul saw that he behaved himself very wisely, he was afraid of him. — study this verse from 1 Samuel chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Wherefore when Saul saw that he behaved himself very wisely, he was afraid of him.

1 Samuel 18:15 · King James Version


Context

13

Therefore Saul removed him from him, and made him his captain over a thousand; and he went out and came in before the people.

14

And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the LORD was with him. behaved: or, prospered

15

Wherefore when Saul saw that he behaved himself very wisely, he was afraid of him.

16

But all Israel and Judah loved David, because he went out and came in before them.

17

And Saul said to David, Behold my elder daughter Merab, her will I give thee to wife: only be thou valiant for me, and fight the LORD'S battles. For Saul said, Let not mine hand be upon him, but let the hand of the Philistines be upon him. valiant: Heb. a son of valour


Commentaries2 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
Wherefore when Saul saw that he behaved himself very wisely, he was afraid of him.

The paradox deepens: David's excellent conduct increased rather than decreased Saul's fear. The Hebrew yare' (to fear) indicates genuine terror. Saul feared David precisely because David gave him no legitimate cause for action against him. Wise behavior in the face of unjust opposition can intensify rather than diminish the opposition. Those who cannot find fault become more dangerous when their hatred lacks rational foundation. Saul's fear reveals his spiritual bankruptcy - the king fears his own servant because God's favor has visibly transferred.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient kings constantly watched for threats to their power. David's combination of military success, popular support, and prudent conduct made him appear increasingly capable of challenging Saul. Ironically, David's faithfulness was itself threatening to the faithless king.

Reflection Questions

  1. When has your faithful conduct provoked rather than placated opposition?
  2. What does Saul's fear of David's wisdom teach about how guilt responds to innocence?
KS
Written by KJV Study CommentaryBiblical Commentary

Compare 2 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.


Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וַיַּ֣רְא
1 of 8

saw

H7200
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
שָׁא֔וּל
2 of 8

Wherefore when Saul

H7586
shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites
אֲשֶׁר
3 of 8
H834
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
ה֖וּא
4 of 8
H1931
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
מַשְׂכִּ֣יל
5 of 8

that he behaved

H7919
to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent
מְאֹ֑ד
6 of 8

himself very

H3966
properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or
וַיָּ֖גָר
7 of 8

he was afraid

H1481
properly, to turn aside from the road (for a lodging or any other purpose), i.e., sojourn (as a guest); also to shrink, fear (as in a strange place);
מִפָּנָֽיו׃
8 of 8

of

H6440
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Samuel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Samuel 18:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Samuel 18:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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