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1 Samuel 24:11

Moreover, my father, see, yea, see the skirt of thy robe in my hand: for in that I cut off the skirt of thy robe, and killed thee not, know thou and see that there is neither evil nor transgression in mine hand, and I have not sinned against thee; yet thou huntest my soul to take it.

1 Samuel 24:11 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the speaker is addressing his father and attempting to justify his actions. He explains that he had the opportunity to harm his father but chose not to, demonstrating his loyalty and innocence. By cutting off a piece of his father's robe instead of harming him, the speaker proves that he has no ill intentions and has not sinned against his father. Despite this, his father is still pursuing him, seeking to harm him. This verse showcases the theme of betrayal and the struggle for power within relationships. It highlights the complexities of familial bonds and the potential for misunderstanding and conflict. By examining the emotions and intentions of the speaker, readers can delve deeper into the moral and ethical dilemmas presented in the text. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of communication and understanding in maintaining healthy relationships.

Theological Overview

This verse, from the story of David sparing King Saul's life in the cave, is a powerful example of David's loyalty to and respect for his authority, despite the animosity between them. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights David's unwillingness to harm Saul, even when he had the opportunity to do so. By cutting off a piece of Saul's robe, David symbolically demonstrates that he could have killed the king, but chose not to. This act shows David's understanding of the sacredness of Saul's position as king, even though Saul was actively trying to kill him. The word studies in this verse reveal the depth of David's conviction that he has not sinned against Saul, despite Saul's relentless pursuit of his life. The verse emphasizes David's innocence and righteous behavior, contrasting it with Saul's unjust actions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of forgiveness, even in the face of persecution, and the value of maintaining one's integrity in the most challenging circumstances.

1 Samuel 24:11 in other translations

American Standard Version

Moreover, my father, see, yea, see the skirt of thy robe in my hand; for in that I cut off the skirt of thy robe, and killed thee not, know thou and see that there is neither evil nor transgression in my hand, and I have not sinned against thee, though thou huntest after my life to take it.

World English Bible

Moreover, my father, behold, yes, see the skirt of your robe in my hand; for in that I cut off the skirt of your robe, and didn’t kill you, know and see that there is neither evil nor disobedience in my hand, and I have not sinned against you, though you hunt for my life to take it.

Douay-Rheims

Behold this day thy eyes have seen, that the Lord hath delivered thee into my hand, in the cave, and I had a thought to kill thee, but my eye hath spared thee. For I said: I will not put out my hand against my lord, because he is the Lord's anointed.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Behold, this day thine eyes haue seene, that the Lord had deliuered thee this day into mine hand in the caue, and some bade me kill thee, but I had compassion on thee, and said, I will not lay mine hande on my master: for he is the Lordes Anoynted.