King James Version
What Does 1 Samuel 29:10 Mean?
“Wherefore now rise up early in the morning with thy master's servants that are come with thee: and as soon as ye be up early in the morning, and have light, depart.”
1 Samuel 29:10 · KJV
Context
8
And David said unto Achish, But what have I done? and what hast thou found in thy servant so long as I have been with thee unto this day, that I may not go fight against the enemies of my lord the king? with: Heb. before thee
9
And Achish answered and said to David, I know that thou art good in my sight, as an angel of God: notwithstanding the princes of the Philistines have said, He shall not go up with us to the battle.
10
Wherefore now rise up early in the morning with thy master's servants that are come with thee: and as soon as ye be up early in the morning, and have light, depart.
11
So David and his men rose up early to depart in the morning, to return into the land of the Philistines. And the Philistines went up to Jezreel.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAchish's final instructions establish the practical arrangements for David's departure. The phrase 'thy master's servants that are come with thee' (Hebrew: 'avdey adonekha') may refer to David's men as servants of Saul (their former allegiance) or as David's own followers. The instruction to leave at first light ensures David's departure is orderly and visible, preventing any accusation of desertion. The practical details conclude the diplomatic resolution that saves David from his impossible situation.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Early morning departure was standard for military movements, allowing maximum daylight travel. David's honorable discharge with clear instructions prevented any later accusation of abandonment or treachery.
Reflection Questions
- How do practical arrangements help navigate the conclusion of difficult situations?
- What role do timing and visibility play in maintaining honor amid complex circumstances?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 13 wordsוְהִשְׁכַּמְתֶּ֣ם2 of 13
“Wherefore now rise up early”
H7925literally, to load up (on the back of man or beast), i.e., to start early in the morning
אֲשֶׁר6 of 13
H834who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
אִתָּ֑ךְ8 of 13
H854properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
וְהִשְׁכַּמְתֶּ֣ם9 of 13
“Wherefore now rise up early”
H7925literally, to load up (on the back of man or beast), i.e., to start early in the morning
לָכֶ֖ם12 of 13
H0Study 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 29:10 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 29:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge