Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

1 Samuel 24:12

The LORD judge between me and thee, and the LORD avenge me of thee: but mine hand shall not be upon thee.

1 Samuel 24:12 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of 1 Samuel is a powerful statement from David to his enemy, King Saul. In this verse, David is declaring that he will not take revenge into his own hands, but instead will trust in the Lord to judge between them and to avenge him if necessary. By saying, "The LORD judge between me and thee, and the LORD avenge me of thee: but mine hand shall not be upon thee," David is showing his commitment to leaving justice in the hands of God. This verse reflects the importance of trusting in God's justice and not seeking revenge or retaliation on our own. It also demonstrates David's faith in God's ability to bring about justice in the face of his enemies. As users read this verse on our website, they can be reminded of the importance of seeking God's justice and trusting in His timing and plan for resolution in difficult situations.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the psalmist is calling upon the Lord to be the ultimate judge between him and his adversary, asking for divine justice and vengeance to be carried out by the hand of God. The word "judge" in the Hebrew context carries the meaning of making a legal decision or pronouncement, indicating a desire for God to intervene on behalf of the psalmist. The psalmist acknowledges that it is not for him to take matters into his own hands, as seen in the phrase "but mine hand shall not be upon thee." This shows a commitment to allowing God to bring about justice in His timing and in His way. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and timing, even in the face of conflict or injustice. It serves as a reminder of the psalmist's reliance on God's judgment and vindication, rather than seeking revenge or retribution on his own. Overall, this verse highlights the psalmist's faith in God as the ultimate arbiter of justice and the one who will ultimately right all wrongs.

1 Samuel 24:12 in other translations

American Standard Version

Jehovah judge between me and thee, and Jehovah avenge me of thee; but my hand shall not be upon thee.

World English Bible

May Yahweh judge between me and you, and may Yahweh avenge me of you; but my hand shall not be on you.

Douay-Rheims

Moreover, see and know, O my father, the hem of thy robe in my hand, that when I cut off the hem of thy robe, I would not put out my hand against thee. Reflect, and see, that there is no evil in my hand, nor iniquity, neither have I sinned against thee: but thou liest in wait for my life, to take it away.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Moreouer my father, behold: behold, I say, the lappe of thy garment in mine hand: for when I cut off the lappe of thy garment, I killed thee not. Vnderstad and see, that there is neither euil nor wickednesse in mee, neither haue I sinned against thee, yet thou huntest after my soule to take it.