1 Chronicles 11:18
And the three brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: but David would not drink of it, but poured it out to the LORD,
1 Chronicles 11:18 · King James Version
Meaning
When the three mighty men broke through the Philistine forces to draw water from the well of Bethlehem for David, they displayed great loyalty and bravery. The act of risking their lives to fulfill David's simple request shows their unwavering dedication to their leader. However, David's refusal to quench his thirst with the precious water, instead choosing to pour it out as an offering to the Lord, demonstrates his deep reverence and gratitude for God's protection and provision. By pouring out the water, David acknowledges that it is ultimately God who sustains him and gives him victory in battle. This verse highlights the themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and faith in God's sovereignty, serving as a reminder of the importance of honoring God above all else.
Theological Overview
Within this verse from 2 Samuel 23:16, there is a profound theological interpretation that stems from David's actions upon receiving the water from the three mighty men. The act of breaking through the host of the Philistine army to draw water from the well of Bethlehem was a demonstration of loyalty and courage. However, when the water was brought to David, he refused to drink it and instead poured it out as an offering to the Lord. This act can be seen as a symbolic gesture of humility and reverence, as David acknowledges that the water is too precious to be consumed casually. By pouring it out as an offering, David is giving thanks and recognition to the Lord for the bravery and sacrifice of his men. This act of pouring out the water also serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and honoring the blessings that come our way, attributing them to God's grace and providence.
1 Chronicles 11:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the three brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Beth-lehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: but David would not drink thereof, but poured it out unto Jehovah,
World English Bible
The three broke through the army of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: but David would not drink of it, but poured it out to Yahweh,
Douay-Rheims
And these three broke through the midst of the camp of the Philistines, and drew water out of the cistern of Bethlehem, which was in the gate, and brought it to David to drink: and he would not drink of it, but rather offered it to the Lord,
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then these three brake thorowe the hoste of the Philistims, and drewe water out of the well of Beth-lehem that was by the gate, and tooke it and brought it to Dauid: but Dauid would not drinke of it, but powred it for an oblation to the Lord,