King James Version
What Does 1 Samuel 30:2 Mean?
“And had taken the women captives, that were therein: they slew not any, either great or small, but carried them away, and went on their way.”
Context
1
And it came to pass, when David and his men were come to Ziklag on the third day, that the Amalekites had invaded the south, and Ziklag, and smitten Ziklag, and burned it with fire;
2
And had taken the women captives, that were therein: they slew not any, either great or small, but carried them away, and went on their way.
3
So David and his men came to the city, and, behold, it was burned with fire; and their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, were taken captives.
4
Then David and the people that were with him lifted up their voice and wept, until they had no more power to weep.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(2) **They slew not any.**—There was no one in the hapless city to resist the attack of the fierce sons of the desert. David—never dreaming of the sudden invasion—had marched with Achish, accompanied by his whole force. The Amalekites slew none of their captives; they were, we read, women and children. These possessed a marketable value, and were carried off to be sold into slavery, probably in Egypt, with which country the Amalekites, as neighbours, had constant dealings. We read a few verses on specially of an *Egyptian *slave in the army.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 30:2 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 30:2
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge