This verse showcases a stern warning against selfishness and pride.
In this verse, Nabal, described as a wealthy but harsh man living in the region of Carmel, refuses to share his resources with David’s men. He exclaims, “Shall I then take my bread and my water and my meat that I have slaughtered for my shearers, and give it to men whose origin I do not know?” (v.11). This situation unfolds near Carmel, a rural area in the southern portion of ancient Israel known for its farmland and sheep pastures. In the broader context of 1 Samuel 25, David—who would eventually serve as the second king of Israel from about 1010 BC to 970 BC—sends men to seek gracious hospitality from Nabal, only to be met with scorn and a refusal to help.
By asking, “Shall I then take my bread and my water…” (v.11), Nabal reveals his prideful and suspicious nature. Instead of recognizing David’s kindness toward his shepherds, he elevates his own comforts above the needs of others. According to the customs of that time, hospitality was a highly regarded virtue, especially in rural regions where resources—while carefully managed—were customarily shared with travelers in need. Nabal’s refusal runs counter to the spirit of generosity that later finds perfect expression in Jesus’ teachings about caring for others (Luke 6:38).
The statement, “…and give it to men whose origin I do not know?” (v.11), further underscores Nabal’s contempt; rather than demonstrating respect or gratitude, he belittles David’s men, ignoring the protection they had given to his shepherds (1 Samuel 25:15-16). Historically, David was anointed by the prophet Samuel to succeed King Saul, placing these events just before David’s official reign as Israel’s king around 1010 BC. Nabal’s insult and ultimate downfall mark a pivotal contrast between those who display arrogance and those who trust in the LORD’s justice.
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1 Samuel 25:11 meaning
In this verse, Nabal, described as a wealthy but harsh man living in the region of Carmel, refuses to share his resources with David’s men. He exclaims, “Shall I then take my bread and my water and my meat that I have slaughtered for my shearers, and give it to men whose origin I do not know?” (v.11). This situation unfolds near Carmel, a rural area in the southern portion of ancient Israel known for its farmland and sheep pastures. In the broader context of 1 Samuel 25, David—who would eventually serve as the second king of Israel from about 1010 BC to 970 BC—sends men to seek gracious hospitality from Nabal, only to be met with scorn and a refusal to help.
By asking, “Shall I then take my bread and my water…” (v.11), Nabal reveals his prideful and suspicious nature. Instead of recognizing David’s kindness toward his shepherds, he elevates his own comforts above the needs of others. According to the customs of that time, hospitality was a highly regarded virtue, especially in rural regions where resources—while carefully managed—were customarily shared with travelers in need. Nabal’s refusal runs counter to the spirit of generosity that later finds perfect expression in Jesus’ teachings about caring for others (Luke 6:38).
The statement, “…and give it to men whose origin I do not know?” (v.11), further underscores Nabal’s contempt; rather than demonstrating respect or gratitude, he belittles David’s men, ignoring the protection they had given to his shepherds (1 Samuel 25:15-16). Historically, David was anointed by the prophet Samuel to succeed King Saul, placing these events just before David’s official reign as Israel’s king around 1010 BC. Nabal’s insult and ultimate downfall mark a pivotal contrast between those who display arrogance and those who trust in the LORD’s justice.