King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 22:18 Mean?
“He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them that hated me: for they were too strong for me.”
Context
16
And the channels of the sea appeared, the foundations of the world were discovered, at the rebuking of the LORD, at the blast of the breath of his nostrils.
17
He sent from above, he took me; he drew me out of many waters; many: or, great
18
He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them that hated me: for they were too strong for me.
19
They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the LORD was my stay.
20
He brought me forth also into a large place: he delivered me, because he delighted in me.
Commentary
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary**Verses 6-19**
See the nature of jealous malice and its pitiful arts. Saul looks upon all about him as his enemies, because they do not just say as he says. In Ahimelech's answer to Saul we have the language of conscious innocence. But what wickedness will not the evil spirit hurry men to when he gets the dominion! Saul alleges that which was utterly false and unproved. But the most bloody tyrants have found instruments of their cruelty as barbarous as themselves. Doeg, having murdered the priests, went to the city, Nob, and put all to the sword there. Nothing so vile but those may do it, who have provoked God to give them up to their hearts' lusts. Yet this was the accomplishment of the threatenings against the house of Eli. Though Saul was unrighteous in doing this, yet God was righteous in permitting it. No word of God shall fall to the ground.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Samuel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Samuel 22:18 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 2 Samuel 22:18
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge