Saul orders the death of the priests due to fear and paranoia, but his servants reject the unjust act, displaying a glimmer of reverence for the LORD’s anointed.
“And the king said to the guards who were attending him, ‘Turn around and put the priests of the LORD to death; because their hand also is with David and because they knew that he was fleeing and did not reveal it to me.’ But the servants of the king were not willing to put forth their hands to attack the priests of the LORD.” (v.17) King Saul, reigning from about 1050 BC to 1010 BC, issues a command that reveals his deep fear and suspicion of David, his loyal servant who would become the second king of Israel (2 Samuel 5:4). By demanding the execution of the priests who assisted David, Saul believes he can eliminate any threat to his rule. Yet this verse also highlights the moral hesitation of Saul’s own servants, who refuse to harm these consecrated men of God despite the king’s direct order. Their refusal indicates a recognition of Saul’s deteriorating judgment and the greater importance of honoring the LORD’s anointed.
This event takes place near Nob, a city in ancient Israel located close to Jerusalem, known at that time for its sanctuary and the presence of the priests. King Saul’s order is motivated by his perception that the priests “knew that [David] was fleeing and did not reveal it” (v.17). The priests presumably offered David aid, perhaps providing him with bread and a weapon during his escape (1 Samuel 21:1-9), acts that Saul has interpreted as treason. Historically, these incidents unfold during a tumultuous period in Israel’s monarchy, as Saul’s insecurity grows and David’s destiny as king begins to emerge more clearly.
Within the broader biblical narrative, David’s presence foreshadows Jesus the Messiah, who is often called “the Son of David” (Matthew 1:1). Although David is unjustly persecuted, his ultimate vindication by the LORD points forward to how Christ, though righteous, would also face unjust accusations (Luke 23:1-25). Saul’s brutal overreach against the priests contrasts with God’s steadfast commitment to His plan: David will ascend to the throne, and through his lineage the true King of kings, Jesus, will come (2 Samuel 7:12-13).
Set to dark mode
1 Samuel 22:17 meaning
“And the king said to the guards who were attending him, ‘Turn around and put the priests of the LORD to death; because their hand also is with David and because they knew that he was fleeing and did not reveal it to me.’ But the servants of the king were not willing to put forth their hands to attack the priests of the LORD.” (v.17) King Saul, reigning from about 1050 BC to 1010 BC, issues a command that reveals his deep fear and suspicion of David, his loyal servant who would become the second king of Israel (2 Samuel 5:4). By demanding the execution of the priests who assisted David, Saul believes he can eliminate any threat to his rule. Yet this verse also highlights the moral hesitation of Saul’s own servants, who refuse to harm these consecrated men of God despite the king’s direct order. Their refusal indicates a recognition of Saul’s deteriorating judgment and the greater importance of honoring the LORD’s anointed.
This event takes place near Nob, a city in ancient Israel located close to Jerusalem, known at that time for its sanctuary and the presence of the priests. King Saul’s order is motivated by his perception that the priests “knew that [David] was fleeing and did not reveal it” (v.17). The priests presumably offered David aid, perhaps providing him with bread and a weapon during his escape (1 Samuel 21:1-9), acts that Saul has interpreted as treason. Historically, these incidents unfold during a tumultuous period in Israel’s monarchy, as Saul’s insecurity grows and David’s destiny as king begins to emerge more clearly.
Within the broader biblical narrative, David’s presence foreshadows Jesus the Messiah, who is often called “the Son of David” (Matthew 1:1). Although David is unjustly persecuted, his ultimate vindication by the LORD points forward to how Christ, though righteous, would also face unjust accusations (Luke 23:1-25). Saul’s brutal overreach against the priests contrasts with God’s steadfast commitment to His plan: David will ascend to the throne, and through his lineage the true King of kings, Jesus, will come (2 Samuel 7:12-13).