← Back to 1 Samuel

1 Samuel 24

22 verses

TL;DR

David spares King Saul in a cave, showing mercy that reflects divine justice and sets the stage for David’s future kingship.

Summary

Saul, having pursued David in the wilderness of Engedi, catches up with him at a cave near the sheepcotes. David enters the cave to catch Saul, but when Saul seeks the exit, David sees his chance to kill the king. He cuts a piece of Saul’s robe, but then is moved by conscience and leaves Saul alive. David then confronts Saul, explains his restraint, and offers the evidence of the cut robe. Saul weeps, acknowledges David’s righteousness, and grants David a blessing that he will be king. The chapter ends with Saul’s vow to protect David’s lineage.

Outline
  1. Saul’s pursuit and capture of David in Engedi
  2. David’s decision to spare Saul and the confrontation in the cave
  3. Saul’s remorse, blessing, and David’s future kingship
Themes
mercy over vengeancethe anointed as divine instrumentdivine justice and leadership
Keywords
SaulDavidanointedmercyvengeancecaverobekingLord
People
SaulDavidDavid’s men
Places
Wilderness of EngediCave near the sheepcotes
Things
Saul’s robeDavid’s sword (implied)the cave
Key Verses
  • 1 Samuel 24:4: David’s act of cutting Saul’s robe illustrates his restraint.
  • 1 Samuel 24:8-10: Shows David’s mercy and the moral dilemma.
  • 1 Samuel 24:17: Saul’s emotional reaction confirms David’s righteousness.
Questions
  • Why did David choose to spare Saul rather than kill him?
  • How does David’s mercy reflect his understanding of the anointed?
  • What does Saul’s weeping reveal about his own moral state?
  • In what ways does this episode foreshadow David’s future reign?
  • How is divine justice portrayed through the actions of both men?
Sentiment

positive
David’s mercy and Saul's remorse create a hopeful tone.