Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

1 Samuel 25:13

And David said unto his men, Gird ye on every man his sword. And they girded on every man his sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the stuff.

1 Samuel 25:13 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, we see David instructing his men to prepare for battle by putting on their swords. David himself also equipped himself with a sword as they geared up for action. The number of men who followed David into battle was about four hundred, showing the strength of David's army. Additionally, two hundred men remained behind to guard their possessions, referred to as the "stuff." This verse highlights the strategic planning and organization of David's military forces, as well as his leadership qualities in mobilizing his men for battle. It also symbolizes the importance of being prepared and well-equipped in facing challenges and adversaries, as demonstrated by David and his men in this particular context.

Theological Overview

David's command to his men to gird on their swords in this verse reflects his readiness for battle. This action signifies preparation and determination to face whatever challenges lie ahead. By arming themselves with swords, David and his men demonstrated their willingness to defend themselves and their cause. The number of men who followed David into battle, about four hundred, indicates a sizeable force. Additionally, the mention of the two hundred who stayed behind to guard their belongings highlights the importance of protecting their possessions while engaged in warfare. Through this passage, we see a leader who is not only brave and strategic in his military decisions but also responsible and mindful of the well-being of his entire company. The act of girding on their swords serves as a tangible symbol of their commitment to support and follow their leader, David, in the face of adversity.

1 Samuel 25:13 in other translations

American Standard Version

And David said unto his men, Gird ye on every man his sword. And they girded on every man his sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the baggage.

World English Bible

David said to his men, “Every man put on his sword!” Every man put on his sword. David also put on his sword. About four hundred men followed David; and two hundred stayed by the baggage.

Douay-Rheims

Then David said to his young men: Let every man gird on his sword. And they girded on every man his sword. And David also girded on his sword: and there followed David about four hundred men, and two hundred remained with the baggage.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And Dauid said vnto his men, Girde euery man his sword about him. And they girded euery man his sworde: Dauid also girded his sworde. And about foure hundreth men went vp after Dauid, and two hundreth abode by the cariage.