1 Samuel 18:7 Meaning and Explanation
“And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The women sing in chorus that Saul has slain thousands and David ten thousands.
What Does 1 Samuel 18:7 Mean?
The celebration takes the form of an antiphonal song, one group answering another. Their refrain honors both men but lifts David higher: Saul his thousands, David his ten thousands. The words are praise, not provocation, yet they place the younger man above the king.
The song tells the truth, and truth can be hard to hear when pride is listening. The people simply name what God has done through David. How we respond to another's honor reveals our heart; the humble rejoice with those who rejoice, while the envious hear only what they have lost.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Samuel 18:7
What does 1 Samuel 18:7 mean?
The women sing in chorus that Saul has slain thousands and David ten thousands.