Bible Commentaries
1 Samuel 24

Verses 1-22

1 Samuel 24. David Spares Saul at Engedi (E).— Chs. 24 and 26 give two versions of the same story, located at different places. Probably both versions are early. It is not clear which is the earlier, but it is often considered that 26 has the more primitive flavour. It is not necessary to suppose that either story has been developed from the other; they are probably independent developments from the actual facts.

1 Samuel 24:1-7 . Saul resumes the pursuit of David; under the stress of a necessity of nature, he goes alone into a cave, in the recesses of which David and his men are hidden. His followers urge him to slay Saul, but he contents himself with secretly cutting off the skirt of his robe; and even then he has qualms of conscience as to taking this liberty with “ his master, the Anointed of Yahweh.” Saul goes out, unconscious of his danger.

1 Samuel 24:8-15 . David calls after Saul, tells him what has happened, and protests his innocence.

1 Samuel 24:14 . Commonly regarded as an editorial addition.

1 Samuel 24:16-22 . Saul is touched, and acknowledges David’ s consistent loyalty, of which his recent conduct has been the climax. He induces David to swear that when he becomes king he will not put to death Saul’ s family. They separate.