1 Samuel 30:17
And David smote them from the twilight even unto the evening of the next day: and there escaped not a man of them, save four hundred young men, which rode upon camels, and fled.
1 Samuel 30:17 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of 1 Samuel describes a battle between David and the Amalekites. The phrase "from the twilight even unto the evening of the next day" indicates the intensity and duration of the battle. It signifies that the fighting was relentless and continued for an extended period, from dusk until dusk the following day. The fact that "there escaped not a man of them" except for four hundred young men shows the thoroughness of David's victory. This demonstrates David's military prowess and strategic skills in securing a decisive win. The reference to the young men riding camels highlights their attempt to escape the battlefield but ultimately failing to do so. Overall, this verse showcases the determination and success of David in defeating his enemies and establishing his dominance.
Theological Overview
In this passage from 1 Samuel 30:17, the theological interpretation revolves around the concept of divine intervention and justice. The phrase "And David smote them from the twilight even unto the evening of the next day" showcases the extent of David's victory over his enemies, indicating a prolonged and decisive battle against those who sought to harm him and his followers. This event highlights David's faith in God's protection and his role as a righteous leader chosen by God. Additionally, the mention of the four hundred young men who escaped on camels emphasizes the persistence of evil forces even in the face of overwhelming defeat. Through careful analysis of this verse, we can draw parallels to our own lives, recognizing the importance of faith, perseverance, and ultimately, the triumph of good over evil.
1 Samuel 30:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
And David smote them from the twilight even unto the evening of the next day: and there escaped not a man of them, save four hundred young men, who rode upon camels and fled.
World English Bible
David struck them from the twilight even to the evening of the next day. Not a man of them escaped from there, except four hundred young men, who rode on camels and fled.
Douay-Rheims
And David slew them from the evening unto the evening of the next day, and there escaped not a man of them, but four hundred young men, who had gotten upon camels, and fled.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Dauid smote them from the twilight, euen vnto the euening of the next morowe, so that there escaped not a man of them, saue foure hundreth yong men, which rode vpon camels, and fled.