1 Samuel 22:15 Meaning and Explanation
“Did I then begin to enquire of God for him? be it far from me: let not the king impute any thing unto his servant, nor to all the house of my father: for thy servant knew nothing of all this, less or more.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Ahimelech protests his innocence: inquiring of God for David was nothing new, and he knew nothing of any conflict between Saul and David.
What Does 1 Samuel 22:15 Mean?
Ahimelech finishes his defense. Inquiring of God for David was no novelty, he says; it was his ordinary duty for a man he believed served the king. He pleads that no guilt be charged to him or his family, for he knew nothing -- 'less or more' -- of any quarrel between Saul and David.
His words are wholly true. The priest acted in innocence and ignorance of the king's private hatred. 'Be it far from me' is the cry of a clear conscience that will not confess a sin it never committed. Yet truth and innocence do not move a heart set against God. Sometimes the righteous must simply speak the truth, commit themselves to the Lord, and accept that they cannot control how the powerful will answer. Their vindication rests with God, not with men.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Samuel 22:15
What does 1 Samuel 22:15 mean?
Ahimelech protests his innocence: inquiring of God for David was nothing new, and he knew nothing of any conflict between Saul and David.