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1 Samuel 16:16

Let our lord now command thy servants, which are before thee, to seek out a man, who is a cunning player on an harp: and it shall come to pass, when the evil spirit from God is upon thee, that he shall play with his hand, and thou shalt be well.

1 Samuel 16:16 · King James Version

Meaning

1 Samuel 16:16-23 tells the story of King Saul, who was troubled by an evil spirit from God. His servants suggested finding a skilled musician to play the harp for him, as music was believed to have a calming effect on the spirit. Thus, they were instructed to seek out a cunning player on the harp. David, who was known for his musical talent, was brought before Saul. Whenever Saul was troubled by the evil spirit, David would play his harp, and Saul would feel better.

This verse highlights the power of music in soothing the soul and bringing peace to troubled hearts. In this context, David's harp playing not only provided relief for King Saul but also revealed his God-given gift of music. It serves as a reminder of how music has the ability to heal and uplift individuals, making it a powerful tool for expressing emotions and connecting with the divine. Through David's skillful harp playing, we see the importance of using our talents to bring comfort and solace to others, just as he did for King Saul.

Theological Overview

In this passage from 1 Samuel 16:16, we see King Saul struggling with an evil spirit from God, which causes him distress. His servants suggest that a skillful musician be found to play the harp for him, as music was believed to have a calming effect on the mind and spirit. The term "cunning player" here refers to someone who is skilled and proficient in playing the harp, able to soothe and bring comfort through their musical abilities. This verse highlights the power of music as a form of spiritual therapy, showing how music can be used to drive away negative spirits and bring peace and healing to the troubled soul. It also demonstrates the importance of seeking out and engaging with talented individuals who can minister to others through their gifts and abilities, ultimately showing the connection between music, spirituality, and emotional well-being.

1 Samuel 16:16 in other translations

American Standard Version

Let our lord now command thy servants, that are before thee, to seek out a man who is a skilful player on the harp: and it shall come to pass, when the evil spirit from God is upon thee, that he shall play with his hand, and thou shalt be well.

World English Bible

Let our lord now command your servants who are before you, to seek out a man who is a skillful player on the harp. It shall happen, when the evil spirit from God is on you, that he shall play with his hand, and you shall be well.”

Douay-Rheims

Let our lord give orders, and thy servants who are before thee, will seek out a man skilful in playing on the harp, that when the evil spirit from the Lord is upon thee, he may play with his hand, and thou mayst bear it more easily.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Let our Lord therefore command thy seruants, that are before thee, to seeke a man that is a cunning plaier vpon the harpe: that when the euil spirit of God commeth vpon thee, hee may play with his hand, and thou maiest be eased.