1 Samuel 19:8
New International Version
Once more war broke out, and David went out and fought the Philistines. He struck them with such force that they fled before him.

New Living Translation
War broke out again after that, and David led his troops against the Philistines. He attacked them with such fury that they all ran away.

English Standard Version
And there was war again. And David went out and fought with the Philistines and struck them with a great blow, so that they fled before him.

Berean Standard Bible
When war broke out again, David went out and fought the Philistines and struck them with such a mighty blow that they fled before him.

Berean Literal Bible
And it added to be war, and David went out and fought with the Philistines, and he struck them with a mighty blow, and they fled from his face.

King James Bible
And there was war again: and David went out, and fought with the Philistines, and slew them with a great slaughter; and they fled from him.

New King James Version
And there was war again; and David went out and fought with the Philistines, and struck them with a mighty blow, and they fled from him.

New American Standard Bible
When there was war again, David went out and fought the Philistines and defeated them with great slaughter, so that they fled from him.

NASB 1995
When there was war again, David went out and fought with the Philistines and defeated them with great slaughter, so that they fled before him.

NASB 1977
When there was war again, David went out and fought with the Philistines, and defeated them with great slaughter, so that they fled before him.

Legacy Standard Bible
Then there was war again. And David went out and fought with the Philistines and struck them with a great slaughter, so that they fled before him.

Amplified Bible
Then there was war again, and David went out and fought with the Philistines and defeated them with a great slaughter, and they fled before him.

Berean Annotated Bible
When war broke out again, David (beloved) went out and fought the Philistines (immigrants) and struck them with such a mighty blow that they fled before him.

Christian Standard Bible
When war broke out again, David went out and fought against the Philistines. He defeated them with such great force that they fled from him.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
When war broke out again, David went out and fought against the Philistines. He defeated them with such a great force that they fled from him.

American Standard Version
And there was war again: and David went out, and fought with the Philistines, and slew them with a great slaughter; and they fled before him.

Contemporary English Version
The next time there was a war with the Philistines, David fought hard and forced them to retreat.

English Revised Version
And there was war again: and David went out, and fought with the Philistines, and slew them with a great slaughter; and they fled before him.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
When war broke out again, David went to fight the Philistines. He defeated them so decisively that they fled from him.

Good News Translation
War with the Philistines broke out again. David attacked them and defeated them so thoroughly that they fled.

International Standard Version
The war continued and David went out to fight against the Philistines. He thoroughly defeated them, and they fled before David.

NET Bible
Now once again there was war. So David went out to fight the Philistines. He defeated them thoroughly and they ran away from him.

New Heart English Bible
There was war again. David went out, and fought with the Philistines, and killed them with a great slaughter; and they fled before him.

Webster's Bible Translation
And there was war again: and David went out, and fought with the Philistines, and slew them with a great slaughter; and they fled from him.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
When war broke out again, David went out and fought the Philistines and struck them with such a mighty blow that they fled before him.

World English Bible
There was war again. David went out and fought with the Philistines, and killed them with a great slaughter; and they fled before him.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And there adds to be war, and David goes out and fights against the Philistines, and strikes among them [with] a great striking, and they flee from his face.

Berean Literal Bible
And it added to be war, and David went out and fought with the Philistines, and he struck them with a mighty blow, and they fled from his face.

Young's Literal Translation
And there addeth to be war, and David goeth out and fighteth against the Philistines, and smiteth among them -- a great smiting, and they flee from his face.

Smith's Literal Translation
And there will add to be war: and David will go forth and fight against the rovers, and will strike among them a great blow, and they will flee from his face.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And the war began again, and David went out and fought against the Philistines, and defeated them with a great slaughter, and they fled from his face.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Then the war was stirred up again. And David went out and fought against the Philistines. And he struck them down with a great slaughter. And they fled from his face.

New American Bible
When war broke out again, David went out to fight against the Philistines and inflicted such a great defeat upon them that they fled from him.

New Revised Standard Version
Again there was war, and David went out to fight the Philistines. He launched a heavy attack on them, so that they fled before him.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And there was war again; and David went out and fought with the Philistines, and slew them with a great slaughter; and they fled before him.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And war continued, and David went out and fought with the Philistines, and he struck at them a great slaughter, and they fled from before him
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And there was war again; and David went out, and fought with the Philistines, and slew them with a great slaughter; and they fled before him.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And there was again war against Saul; and David did valiantly, and fought against the Philistines, and smote them with a very great slaughter, and they fled from before him.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Saul Attempts to Kill David
7So Jonathan summoned David and told him all these things. Then Jonathan brought David to Saul to serve him as he had before. 8When war broke out again, David went out and fought the Philistines and struck them with such a mighty blow that they fled before him. 9But as Saul was sitting in his house with his spear in his hand, a spirit of distress from the LORD came upon him. While David was playing the harp,…

Cross References
When war broke out again,

2 Samuel 21:15
Once again the Philistines waged war against Israel, and David and his servants went down and fought against the Philistines. But David became exhausted.

2 Samuel 5:22
Once again the Philistines came up and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim.

2 Samuel 5:17-18
When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, they all went in search of him; but David learned of this and went down to the stronghold. / Now the Philistines had come and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim.
David went out and fought the Philistines

2 Samuel 5:19-20
So David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” “Go up,” replied the LORD, “for I will surely deliver the Philistines into your hand.” / So David went to Baal-perazim, where he defeated the Philistines and said, “Like a bursting flood, the LORD has burst out against my enemies before me.” So he called that place Baal-perazim.

1 Chronicles 14:14-15
So David again inquired of God, who answered him, “Do not march up after them, but circle around them and attack them in front of the balsam trees. / As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move out to battle, because this will mean that God has gone out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines.”

2 Samuel 8:1
Some time later, David defeated the Philistines, subdued them, and took Metheg-ammah from the hand of the Philistines.
and struck them with such a mighty blow

1 Samuel 17:50-51
Thus David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him. / David ran and stood over him. He grabbed the Philistine’s sword and pulled it from its sheath and killed him, and he cut off his head with the sword. When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they turned and ran.

2 Samuel 5:20
So David went to Baal-perazim, where he defeated the Philistines and said, “Like a bursting flood, the LORD has burst out against my enemies before me.” So he called that place Baal-perazim.

1 Chronicles 14:11
So David and his men went up to Baal-perazim, where he defeated the Philistines and said, “Like a bursting flood, God has burst out against my enemies by my hand.” So they called that place Baal-perazim.
that they fled before him.

1 Samuel 17:52
Then the men of Israel and Judah charged forward with a shout and pursued the Philistines to the entrance of Gath and to the gates of Ekron. And the bodies of the Philistines were strewn along the Shaaraim road to Gath and Ekron.

2 Samuel 5:21
There the Philistines abandoned their idols, and David and his men carried them away.

2 Samuel 5:25
So David did as the LORD had commanded him, and he struck down the Philistines all the way from Gibeon to Gezer.
1 Samuel 18:6-7
As the troops were returning home after David had killed the Philistine, the women came out of all the cities of Israel to meet King Saul with singing and dancing, with joyful songs, and with tambourines and other instruments. / And as the women danced, they sang out: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.”

1 Samuel 14:47-48
After Saul had assumed the kingship over Israel, he fought against all his enemies on every side—the Moabites, the Ammonites, the Edomites, the kings of Zobah, and the Philistines. Wherever he turned, he routed them. / He fought valiantly and defeated the Amalekites, delivering Israel from the hands of its plunderers.

1 Samuel 23:1-5
Now it was reported to David, “Look, the Philistines are fighting against Keilah and looting the threshing floors.” / So David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go and attack these Philistines?” And the LORD said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.” / But David’s men said to him, “Look, we are afraid here in Judah; how much more if we go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?” …

1 Samuel 11:11
The next day Saul organized the troops into three divisions, and during the morning watch they invaded the camp of the Ammonites and slaughtered them, until the hottest part of the day. And the survivors were so scattered that no two of them were left together.


Treasury of Scripture

And there was war again: and David went out, and fought with the Philistines, and slew them with a great slaughter; and they fled from him.

David

Psalm 18:32
It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect.

Psalm 27:3
Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.

him [heb] his face

Jump to Previous
Addeth Broke Causing David Defeated Destruction Killed Once Philistines Slaughter Slew Smiteth Smiting Smote Struck War
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Addeth Broke Causing David Defeated Destruction Killed Once Philistines Slaughter Slew Smiteth Smiting Smote Struck War
1 Samuel 19
1. Elkanah, a Levite, having two wives, worships yearly at Shiloh
4. He cherishes Hannah, though barren, and provoked by Peninnah
9. Hannah in grief prays for a child
12. Eli first rebuking her, afterwards blesses her
19. Hannah, having born Samuel, stays at home till he is weaned
24. She presents him, according to her vow, to the Lord












When war broke out again
This phrase indicates the recurring conflict between Israel and the Philistines, a common theme throughout the books of Samuel. The Philistines were a significant threat to Israel during this period, often engaging in battles for control over territories. This ongoing warfare highlights the instability and danger faced by Israel, as well as the need for strong leadership.

David went out and fought the Philistines
David's role as a military leader is emphasized here. Despite being a young man, David had already proven himself in battle, most notably against Goliath. His willingness to engage the Philistines demonstrates his courage and commitment to Israel's defense. This also foreshadows David's future as a king who would lead Israel to numerous military victories.

and struck them with such a mighty blow
David's success in battle is attributed to his skill and perhaps divine favor. The phrase suggests a decisive victory, underscoring David's prowess as a warrior. This victory can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to protect and deliver Israel from its enemies, with David as His chosen instrument.

that they fled before him
The Philistines' retreat signifies a complete and overwhelming defeat. This not only highlights David's effectiveness as a leader but also serves as a testament to the power of God working through him. The Philistines' fear and retreat can be seen as a parallel to the spiritual victories believers are promised through faith and reliance on God.

Persons / Places / Events
1. David
The anointed future king of Israel, known for his faithfulness to God and his military prowess. In this verse, he is depicted as a valiant warrior who defeats the Philistines.

2. Philistines
A recurring enemy of Israel, representing opposition to God's people. They are often seen as a symbol of the challenges and adversities faced by believers.

3. War
The ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines, highlighting the constant spiritual and physical battles faced by God's people.
Teaching Points
Faith in Action
David's success against the Philistines is a testament to his faith in God. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's strength in their own battles.

God's Anointing and Empowerment
David's victories are a result of God's anointing. Christians should seek God's empowerment through the Holy Spirit to overcome challenges.

Perseverance in Conflict
The recurring battles with the Philistines remind us that spiritual warfare is ongoing. Believers must remain vigilant and persistent in prayer and faith.

Leadership and Responsibility
David's role as a leader in battle underscores the responsibility of Christian leaders to guide and protect their communities with courage and reliance on God.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 19:8?

2. How does 1 Samuel 19:8 demonstrate God's protection over David during battles?

3. What can we learn about David's reliance on God from 1 Samuel 19:8?

4. How does David's victory in 1 Samuel 19:8 connect to God's promises in Scripture?

5. How can we apply David's courage in 1 Samuel 19:8 to our challenges today?

6. What does 1 Samuel 19:8 teach about trusting God in times of conflict?

7. Why did David continue to fight the Philistines despite Saul's attempts on his life in 1 Samuel 19:8?

8. How does 1 Samuel 19:8 reflect God's protection over David?

9. What does 1 Samuel 19:8 reveal about the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 19?

11. In 2 Samuel 21:19, how could Elhanan have killed Goliath when David is credited with that feat in 1 Samuel 17?

12. In 1 Samuel 29:3-5, why would the Philistines fear David so abruptly if Achish had trusted him for an extended time?

13. 1 Samuel 18:17-27: Is the story of David collecting Philistine foreskins historically plausible, and what does it imply about the reliability of the text?

14. Did David or Elhanan kill Goliath?
What Does 1 Samuel 19:8 Mean
When war broke out again

• Scripture records a recurring pattern of Philistine aggression (1 Samuel 18:30, “Every time the Philistine commanders came out to fight, David was more successful than all of Saul’s officers”).

• The phrase signals yet another round in Israel’s long-running struggle with its pagan neighbors (Judges 3:1-4).

• God allows these repeated conflicts to test and hone His people, just as He had promised in Exodus 23:29-30.


David went out

• David does not hesitate; he steps forward in faith, confident in God’s calling (1 Samuel 18:5, “David went out wherever Saul sent him and prospered”).

• His willingness contrasts sharply with Saul’s growing paralysis (1 Samuel 17:11; 18:12).

• The shepherd-king in training shows the heart God desires—swift obedience rather than fearful delay (Psalm 18:29).


and fought the Philistines

• David’s battle is literal, not symbolic; the inspired narrative affirms an actual military engagement (1 Samuel 17:50; 23:5).

• He confronts Israel’s chief enemy with the same confidence that felled Goliath, proving God’s faithfulness has not changed (1 Samuel 17:47).

• Every skirmish foreshadows David’s future role as the one who will secure Israel’s borders (2 Samuel 5:17-25).


and struck them with such a mighty blow

• The victory is decisive, leaving no doubt that the Lord is fighting for His anointed (2 Samuel 8:1, 14).

• “Mighty blow” underscores God’s power working through David, echoing earlier triumphs like Joshua 10:10, “The LORD threw them into confusion before Israel… striking them with a great slaughter”.

• Results of this strike:

– Israel’s morale rises.

– Saul’s jealousy intensifies (1 Samuel 18:8-9; 19:9).

– God’s promise to protect His people is publicly demonstrated (Deuteronomy 20:4).


that they fled before him

• The enemy’s retreat fulfills Deuteronomy 28:7, “The LORD will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before you; they shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways”.

• Fear shifts from Israel to the Philistines, mirroring James 4:7, “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

• David’s life continues to vindicate Saul’s earlier confession: “You are more righteous than I… you have done me good” (1 Samuel 24:17-20). God’s hand on David is unmistakable.


summary

1 Samuel 19:8 shows yet another Philistine invasion met by David’s prompt, Spirit-empowered response. The inspired text presents an actual battle in which God grants Israel overwhelming victory through His chosen servant. Each phrase reveals fresh evidence of divine faithfulness: conflict permitted, courage displayed, combat engaged, conquest achieved, and the enemy driven off—all pointing to the Lord who keeps His word and protects His people.

Verses 8, 9. - The - more correctly an - evil spirit from Jehovah. The friendly relations between Saul and David continued for some time; but when at length war broke out again, David acquitted himself with his usual ability and success, whereupon Saul's envy and jealousy returned, and fits of melancholy, deepening into insanity, once again over. clouded his reason. It is no longer called "an evil spirit from God," as in 1 Samuel 18:10, but from Jehovah, as in 1 Samuel 16:14, suggesting that it was no longer a natural influence, but that Saul, having broken his covenant relations with Jehovah, was now punished by him. While in this moody state the same temptation to slay David with his javelin came over him, but with such violence that he was no longer able to restrain his evil intent.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
When war
הַמִּלְחָמָ֖ה (ham·mil·ḥā·māh)
Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 4421: A battle, war

broke out
לִֽהְי֑וֹת (lih·yō·wṯ)
Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 1961: To fall out, come to pass, become, be

again,
וַתּ֥וֹסֶף (wat·tō·w·sep̄)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 3254: To add, augment

David
דָוִ֜ד (ḏā·wiḏ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 1732: David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse

went out
וַיֵּצֵ֨א (way·yê·ṣê)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 3318: To go, bring, out, direct and proxim

and fought
וַיִּלָּ֣חֶם (way·yil·lā·ḥem)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Nifal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 3898: To feed on, to consume, to battle

the Philistines
בַּפְּלִשְׁתִּ֗ים (bap·pə·liš·tîm)
Preposition-b, Article | Noun - proper - masculine plural
Strong's 6430: Philistines -- inhabitants of Philistia

and struck
וַיַּ֤ךְ (way·yaḵ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5221: To strike

them
בָּהֶם֙ (bā·hem)
Preposition | third person masculine plural
Strong's Hebrew

with such a mighty
גְדוֹלָ֔ה (ḡə·ḏō·w·lāh)
Adjective - feminine singular
Strong's 1419: Great, older, insolent

blow
מַכָּ֣ה (mak·kāh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 4347: A wound, carnage, pestilence

that they fled
וַיָּנֻ֖סוּ (way·yā·nu·sū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 5127: To flit, vanish away

before him.
מִפָּנָֽיו׃ (mip·pā·nāw)
Preposition-m | Noun - common plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 6440: The face


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OT History: 1 Samuel 19:8 There was war again: and David went (1Sa iSam 1 Sam i sa)
1 Samuel 19:7
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