1 Samuel 25:13 Meaning and Explanation
“And David said unto his men, Gird ye on every man his sword. And they girded on every man his sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the stuff.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Stung by the insult, David arms four hundred men and sets out against Nabal.
What Does 1 Samuel 25:13 Mean?
David's restraint snaps. He orders his men to gird on their swords, straps on his own, and marches with four hundred armed men toward Nabal's house, leaving two hundred behind to guard the supplies. The peaceful errand has become a war party.
Here even a man after God's own heart shows how quickly wounded honor can drive toward bloodshed. David, who had spared Saul, is now ready to destroy a household over an insult. The story does not flatter its hero; it shows how near the godly stand to grievous sin when anger is given the sword. Mercy will have to come from elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Samuel 25:13
What does 1 Samuel 25:13 mean?
Stung by the insult, David arms four hundred men and sets out against Nabal.