1 Samuel 17:12
Now David was the son of that Ephrathite of Bethlehemjudah, whose name was Jesse; and he had eight sons: and the man went among men for an old man in the days of Saul.
1 Samuel 17:12 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, we are provided with insight into the background of David, who was the youngest son of Jesse, an Ephrathite from Bethlehemjudah. The verse mentions that Jesse had eight sons, and David was the youngest of them all. Despite being the youngest, David would go on to become one of the most significant figures in Israelite history, eventually becoming the king of Israel. The mention of Jesse being an Ephrathite is important as it highlights his lineage, tracing it back to the tribe of Judah. This detail becomes crucial when considering the Messianic prophecies that foretold the coming of a ruler from the tribe of Judah. Furthermore, the verse also mentions that Jesse was known as an old man during the time of Saul, indicating that David was born into a family with a rich history and a respected reputation within the community.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of 1 Samuel, the focus is on Jesse, the father of David, who is described as an Ephrathite from Bethlehemjudah. The use of the term "Ephrathite" here is significant because it connects Jesse to a specific region, emphasizing his lineage and heritage. Bethlehemjudah is also highlighted as the place of origin for both Jesse and David, linking them closely to the town where significant events in the Bible would later unfold. Additionally, the mention of Jesse having eight sons indicates a large family, with David being the youngest and eventually rising to prominence as king. This verse not only sets the stage for the introduction of David but also provides important context about his family background and the setting in which he grew up.
1 Samuel 17:12 in other translations
American Standard Version
Now David was the son of that Ephrathite of Beth-lehem-judah, whose name was Jesse; and he had eight sons: and the man was an old man in the days of Saul, stricken [in years] among men.
World English Bible
Now David was the son of that Ephrathite of Bethlehem Judah, whose name was Jesse; and he had eight sons: and the man was an old man in the days of Saul, stricken among men.
Douay-Rheims
Now David was the son of that Ephrathite, of Bethlehem Juda, before mentioned, whose name was Isai, who had eight sons, and was an old man in the days of Saul, and of great age among men.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Nowe this Dauid was the sonne of an Ephrathite of Beth-lehem Iudah, named Ishai, which had eight sonnes: and this man was taken for an olde man in the daies of Saul.