Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version Saul said nothing that day, for he thought, “Something must have happened to David to make him ceremonially unclean—surely he is unclean.” New Living Translation Saul didn’t say anything about it that day, for he said to himself, “Something must have made David ceremonially unclean.” English Standard Version Yet Saul did not say anything that day, for he thought, “Something has happened to him. He is not clean; surely he is not clean.” Berean Standard Bible Saul said nothing that day because he thought, “Something has happened to David to make him ceremonially unclean—surely he is unclean.” Berean Literal Bible And Saul did not say anything on that day, for he said, “Something has happened to that he is not clean; he surely is not clean.” King James Bible Nevertheless Saul spake not any thing that day: for he thought, Something hath befallen him, he is not clean; surely he is not clean. New King James Version Nevertheless Saul did not say anything that day, for he thought, “Something has happened to him; he is unclean, surely he is unclean.” New American Standard Bible Nevertheless Saul did not say anything that day, because he thought, “It must have been an accident; he is not clean, undoubtedly he is not clean.” NASB 1995 Nevertheless Saul did not speak anything that day, for he thought, “It is an accident, he is not clean, surely he is not clean.” NASB 1977 Nevertheless Saul did not speak anything that day, for he thought, “It is an accident, he is not clean, surely he is not clean.” Legacy Standard Bible Nevertheless Saul did not speak anything that day, for he said, “It is an accident; he is not clean; surely he is not clean.” Amplified Bible Yet Saul did not say anything that day, for he thought, “It is an incident [of some kind] and he is not [ceremonially] clean—surely he is unclean.” Berean Annotated Bible Saul (desired) said nothing that day because he thought, “Something has happened to David to make him ceremonially unclean—surely he is unclean.” Christian Standard Bible Saul did not say anything that day because he thought, “Something unexpected has happened; he must be ceremonially unclean—yes, that’s it, he is unclean.” Holman Christian Standard Bible Saul did not say anything that day because he thought, “Something unexpected has happened; he must be ceremonially unclean—yes, that’s it, he is unclean.” American Standard Version Nevertheless Saul spake not anything that day: for he thought, Something hath befallen him, he is not clean; surely he is not clean. Contemporary English Version Saul didn't say anything that day, because he was thinking, "Something must have happened to make David unfit to be at the Festival. Yes, something must have happened." English Revised Version Nevertheless Saul spake not any thing that day: for he thought, Something hath befallen him, he is not clean; surely he is not clean. GOD'S WORD® Translation Saul didn't say anything that day, thinking, "Something has happened to him so that he's unclean. He must be unclean." Good News Translation but Saul said nothing that day, because he thought, "Something has happened to him, and he is not ritually pure." International Standard Version Saul didn't say anything that day because he told himself, "Something has happened; he's unclean; surely he's not clean." NET Bible However, Saul said nothing about it that day, for he thought, "Something has happened to make him ceremonially unclean. Yes, he must be unclean." New Heart English Bible Nevertheless Saul did not say anything that day: for he thought, "Something has happened to him. He is not clean. Surely he is not clean." Webster's Bible Translation Nevertheless Saul spoke not any thing that day: for he thought, Something hath befallen him, he is not clean; surely he is not clean. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleSaul said nothing that day because he thought, “Something has happened to David to make him ceremonially unclean—surely he is unclean.” World English Bible Nevertheless Saul didn’t say anything that day, for he thought, “Something has happened to him. He is not clean. Surely he is not clean.” Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd Saul has not spoken anything on that day, for he said, “It [is] an accident; he is not clean—surely not clean.” Berean Literal Bible And Saul did not say anything on that day, for he said, “Something has happened to that he is not clean; he surely is not clean.” Young's Literal Translation And Saul hath not spoken anything on that day, for he said, 'It is an accident; he is not clean -- surely not clean.' Smith's Literal Translation And Saul spake not anything in that day, for he said, It is an accident; he is not clean; for he is not clean. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd Saul said nothing that day, for he thought it might have happened to him, that he was not clean, nor purified. Catholic Public Domain Version And Saul did not say anything on that day. For he was thinking that perhaps something happened to him, so that he was not clean, or not purified. New American Bible Saul, however, said nothing that day, for he thought, “He must have become unclean by accident.” New Revised Standard Version Saul did not say anything that day; for he thought, “Something has befallen him; he is not clean, surely he is not clean.” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleNevertheless Saul did not say anything that day; for he thought, Something has happened to him, or perhaps he is unclean, or perhaps he has not purified himself. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And Shaul did not say a thing on that day, because he said ‘Perhaps it happens that he is being purified, or perhaps he has not been purified’ OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917Nevertheless Saul spoke not any thing that day; for he thought: 'Something hath befallen him, he is unclean; surely he is not clean.' Brenton Septuagint Translation And Saul said nothing on that day, for he said, It seems to have fallen out that he is not clean, because he has not purified himself. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Jonathan and David Renew Their Covenant…25He sat in his usual place by the wall, opposite Jonathan and beside Abner, but David’s place was empty. 26Saul said nothing that day because he thought, “Something has happened to David to make him ceremonially unclean — surely he is unclean.” 27But on the day after the New Moon, the second day, David’s place was still empty, and Saul asked his son Jonathan, “Why hasn’t the son of Jesse come to the meal either yesterday or today?”… Cross References Saul said nothing that day Job 2:13 Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and seven nights, but no one spoke a word to him because they saw how intense his suffering was. Leviticus 10:3 Then Moses said to Aaron, “This is what the LORD meant when He said: ‘To those who come near Me I will show My holiness, and in the sight of all the people I will reveal My glory.’” But Aaron remained silent. Proverbs 17:28 Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue. because he thought, Luke 12:17 So he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, since I have nowhere to store my crops?’ Proverbs 14:15 The simple man believes every word, but the prudent man watches his steps. Proverbs 18:13 He who answers a matter before he hears it—this is folly and disgrace to him. “Something has happened to David Numbers 19:11-13 Whoever touches any dead body will be unclean for seven days. / He must purify himself with the water on the third day and on the seventh day; then he will be clean. But if he does not purify himself on the third and seventh days, he will not be clean. / Anyone who touches a human corpse and fails to purify himself defiles the tabernacle of the LORD. That person must be cut off from Israel. He remains unclean, because the water of purification has not been sprinkled on him, and his uncleanness is still on him. Leviticus 15:16-18 When a man has an emission of semen, he must bathe his whole body with water, and he will be unclean until evening. / Any clothing or leather on which there is an emission of semen must be washed with water, and it will remain unclean until evening. / If a man lies with a woman and there is an emission of semen, both must bathe with water, and they will remain unclean until evening. Deuteronomy 23:10-11 If any man among you becomes unclean because of a nocturnal emission, he must leave the camp and stay outside. / When evening approaches, he must wash with water, and when the sun sets he may return to the camp. to make him ceremonially unclean— Leviticus 22:4-7 If a descendant of Aaron has a skin disease or a discharge, he may not eat the sacred offerings until he is clean. Whoever touches anything defiled by a corpse or by a man who has an emission of semen, / or whoever touches a crawling creature or a person that makes him unclean, whatever the uncleanness may be— / the man who touches any of these will remain unclean until evening. He must not eat from the sacred offerings unless he has bathed himself with water. … Leviticus 11:24-25 These creatures will make you unclean. Whoever touches their carcasses will be unclean until evening, / and whoever picks up one of their carcasses must wash his clothes, and he will be unclean until evening. Numbers 5:2-3 “Command the Israelites to send away from the camp anyone with a skin disease, anyone who has a bodily discharge, and anyone who is defiled by a dead body. / You must send away male and female alike; send them outside the camp so they will not defile their camp, where I dwell among them.” surely he is unclean.” 1 Samuel 21:4-5 “There is no common bread on hand,” the priest replied, “but there is some consecrated bread—provided that the young men have kept themselves from women.” / David answered, “Women have indeed been kept from us, as is usual when I set out. And the bodies of the young men are holy even on common missions. How much more so today!” Leviticus 7:20-21 But if anyone who is unclean eats meat from the peace offering that belongs to the LORD, that person must be cut off from his people. / If one touches anything unclean, whether human uncleanness, an unclean animal, or any unclean, detestable thing, and then eats any of the meat of the peace offering that belongs to the LORD, that person must be cut off from his people.” Numbers 9:10-13 “Tell the Israelites: ‘When any one of you or your descendants is unclean because of a dead body, or is away on a journey, he may still observe the Passover to the LORD. / Such people are to observe it at twilight on the fourteenth day of the second month. They are to eat the lamb, together with unleavened bread and bitter herbs; / they may not leave any of it until morning or break any of its bones. They must observe the Passover according to all its statutes. … 1 Samuel 16:2 “How can I go?” Samuel asked. “Saul will hear of it and kill me!” The LORD answered, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.’ Treasury of Scripture Nevertheless Saul spoke not any thing that day: for he thought, Something has befallen him, he is not clean; surely he is not clean. he is not clean Leviticus 7:21 Moreover the soul that shall touch any unclean thing, as the uncleanness of man, or any unclean beast, or any abominable unclean thing, and eat of the flesh of the sacrifice of peace offerings, which pertain unto the LORD, even that soul shall be cut off from his people. Leviticus 11:24,27,31,40 And for these ye shall be unclean: whosoever toucheth the carcase of them shall be unclean until the even… Leviticus 15:5,16,17,19-21 And whosoever toucheth his bed shall wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the even… Jump to Previous Accident Befallen Ceremonially Clean David ly Making Nevertheless Saul Something Speak Surely Thought UncleanJump to Next Accident Befallen Ceremonially Clean David ly Making Nevertheless Saul Something Speak Surely Thought Unclean1 Samuel 20 1. David consults with Jonathan for his safety11. Jonathan and David renew their covenant by oath 18. Jonathan's token to David 23. Saul, missing David, seeks to kill Jonathan 35. Jonathan affectionately takes his leave of David Saul said nothing that day In the context of 1 Samuel 20, Saul's silence is significant. It reflects his internal conflict and suspicion regarding David. Saul's silence can be seen as a temporary restraint, as he is known for his volatile temper and jealousy towards David, who is favored by God and the people. This moment of silence is a brief pause in Saul's ongoing pursuit of David, highlighting the tension and uncertainty in their relationship. because he thought, “Something has happened to David to make him ceremonially unclean— surely he is unclean.” Persons / Places / Events 1. SaulThe first king of Israel, who is increasingly paranoid and hostile towards David, perceiving him as a threat to his throne. 2. David The anointed future king of Israel, who is in hiding due to Saul's attempts to kill him. 3. Jonathan Saul's son and David's close friend, who is caught between his loyalty to his father and his covenant with David. 4. Ceremonial Uncleanness A state described in the Mosaic Law where an individual is temporarily unfit to participate in religious activities, often due to contact with certain things or situations. 5. New Moon Festival A significant religious observance in ancient Israel, marking the beginning of a new month, during which special sacrifices and feasts were held. Teaching Points Understanding Ceremonial LawRecognize the importance of ceremonial laws in ancient Israel as a means to maintain holiness and order within the community. Reflect on how these laws pointed to the need for inner purity. The Danger of Assumptions Saul's assumption about David's absence highlights the danger of jumping to conclusions without seeking the truth. In our lives, we should seek understanding and clarity before making judgments about others. The Role of Festivals The New Moon Festival was a time for communal worship and reflection. Consider how regular spiritual practices and observances can help us stay connected to God and community. Friendship and Loyalty Jonathan's relationship with David exemplifies true friendship and loyalty, even in difficult circumstances. Reflect on the importance of maintaining integrity and faithfulness in our relationships. Spiritual vs. Ceremonial Cleanliness While ceremonial cleanliness was important in the Old Testament, the New Testament shifts focus to the heart's condition. Evaluate how we prioritize spiritual cleanliness in our daily lives. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 20:26?2. Why did Saul think David was "ceremonially unclean" in 1 Samuel 20:26? 3. How does Saul's assumption reveal his understanding of religious law and customs? 4. What does 1 Samuel 20:26 teach about assumptions without seeking truth? 5. How can we avoid making assumptions about others' spiritual conditions today? 6. Compare Saul's reaction here with Jesus' teachings on judgment in Matthew 7:1-5. 7. Why did Saul assume David was ceremonially unclean in 1 Samuel 20:26? 8. What does 1 Samuel 20:26 reveal about Saul's understanding of religious laws? 9. How does 1 Samuel 20:26 reflect the tension between Saul and David? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 20? 11. How could David and Abishai enter Saul's camp and take his spear and water jug unnoticed by 3,000 soldiers? (1 Samuel 26:7-12) 12. Does the nature of Jonathan's covenant with David in 1 Samuel 20:16 present any inconsistencies with later depictions of Israelite covenants? 13. Why did Abner, responsible for guarding Saul, face no immediate consequences for failing to protect the king? (1 Samuel 26:15-16) 14. If Saul previously admitted David's righteousness in 1 Samuel 24, why is he chasing David again in 1 Samuel 26? What Does 1 Samuel 20:26 Mean Saul said nothing that day– The king’s silence is striking, especially after his growing hostility toward David (1 Samuel 18:11; 19:1). – Scripture shows that silence can mask simmering anger (Psalm 39:2–3) or give the impression of patience (Proverbs 26:24). – The setting is the first day of the New Moon feast (1 Samuel 20:24). A sacred meal is underway, and Saul’s restraint preserves outward decorum even while resentment brews beneath the surface. Because he thought – Saul’s mind is racing, but he keeps his reasoning private. God’s Word often exposes the hidden dialogue of the heart (Luke 7:39; Mark 2:6–8). – The king assumes a logical, even pious explanation for David’s absence instead of admitting the real issue—his own jealousy (1 Samuel 18:8–9). – Saul’s inward speculation contrasts with Jonathan’s open concern for David (1 Samuel 20:4, 17), highlighting the difference between fear-driven suspicion and covenantal loyalty. Something has happened to David to make him ceremonially unclean – Under the Law, uncleanness could arise from several causes: • Contact with a dead body (Numbers 19:11–13) • Certain bodily emissions (Leviticus 15:2–16) • Eating unclean food or touching a carcass (Leviticus 11:24) – Anyone unclean was barred from holy assemblies or sacred meals until purified (Leviticus 7:20–21). Saul assumes David, a faithful worshiper, would honor these commands (Psalm 24:3–4). – The king’s reference to ritual purity shows that the feast was more than a political banquet; it was a covenant celebration before the LORD (Numbers 10:10). Surely he is unclean – Saul repeats the conclusion, locking in his assumption. The double emphasis underlines his certainty. – His statement, however, is based on conjecture, not evidence. James 1:19–20 warns against quick conclusions that spring from anger, and Proverbs 18:13 calls it folly to answer before listening. – The irony: while Saul judges ceremonial purity, he himself is spiritually compromised by murderous intent (Matthew 23:25–28). God looks past ritual to the heart (1 Samuel 16:7; Isaiah 29:13). summary 1 Samuel 20:26 records Saul’s silent calculation during the New Moon feast. He masks his animosity, assumes David’s ritual uncleanness, and feels justified in his conclusion. The verse reminds us that outward decorum and religious language can conceal sinful motives, while true purity begins with a heart aligned to God’s truth. Hebrew Saulשָׁא֛וּל (šā·’ūl) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 7586: Saul -- first king of Israel, also an Edomite and two Israelites said דִבֶּ֥ר (ḏib·ber) Verb - Piel - Perfect - third person masculine singular Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue nothing וְלֹֽא־ (wə·lō-) Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle Strong's 3808: Not, no that הַה֑וּא (ha·hū) Article | Pronoun - third person masculine singular Strong's 1931: He, self, the same, this, that, as, are day בַּיּ֣וֹם (bay·yō·wm) Preposition-b, Article | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 3117: A day because כִּ֤י (kî) Conjunction Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction he thought, אָמַר֙ (’ā·mar) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular Strong's 559: To utter, say “Something has happened to מִקְרֶ֣ה (miq·reh) Noun - masculine singular Strong's 4745: Something met with, an accident, fortune [David] ה֔וּא (hū) Pronoun - third person masculine singular Strong's 1931: He, self, the same, this, that, as, are to make him ceremonially unclean— בִּלְתִּ֥י (bil·tî) Preposition Strong's 1115: A failure of, not, except, without, unless, besides, because not, until surely כִּֽי־ (kî-) Conjunction Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction he [is] ה֖וּא (hū) Pronoun - third person masculine singular Strong's 1931: He, self, the same, this, that, as, are unclean.” לֹ֥א (lō) Adverb - Negative particle Strong's 3808: Not, no Links 1 Samuel 20:26 NIV1 Samuel 20:26 NLT 1 Samuel 20:26 ESV 1 Samuel 20:26 NASB 1 Samuel 20:26 KJV 1 Samuel 20:26 BibleApps.com 1 Samuel 20:26 Biblia Paralela 1 Samuel 20:26 Chinese Bible 1 Samuel 20:26 French Bible 1 Samuel 20:26 Catholic Bible OT History: 1 Samuel 20:26 Nevertheless Saul didn't say anything that day: (1Sa iSam 1 Sam i sa) |
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