Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version “You are more righteous than I,” he said. “You have treated me well, but I have treated you badly. New Living Translation And he said to David, “You are a better man than I am, for you have repaid me good for evil. English Standard Version He said to David, “You are more righteous than I, for you have repaid me good, whereas I have repaid you evil. Berean Standard Bible and said to David, “You are more righteous than I, for you have rewarded me with good, though I have rewarded you with evil. King James Bible And he said to David, Thou art more righteous than I: for thou hast rewarded me good, whereas I have rewarded thee evil. New King James Version Then he said to David: “You are more righteous than I; for you have rewarded me with good, whereas I have rewarded you with evil. New American Standard Bible And he said to David, “You are more righteous than I; for you have dealt well with me, while I have dealt maliciously with you. NASB 1995 He said to David, “You are more righteous than I; for you have dealt well with me, while I have dealt wickedly with you. NASB 1977 And he said to David, “You are more righteous than I; for you have dealt well with me, while I have dealt wickedly with you. Legacy Standard Bible And he said to David, “You are more righteous than I; for you have dealt well with me, while I have dealt evil with you. Amplified Bible He said to David, “You are more righteous and upright [in God’s eyes] than I; for you have done good to me, but I have done evil to you. Christian Standard Bible and said to David, “You are more righteous than I, for you have done what is good to me though I have done what is evil to you. Holman Christian Standard Bible and said to David, “You are more righteous than I, for you have done what is good to me though I have done what is evil to you. American Standard Version And he said to David, Thou art more righteous than I; for thou hast rendered unto me good, whereas I have rendered unto thee evil. Contemporary English Version and said: David, you're a better person than I am. You treated me with kindness, even though I've been cruel to you. English Revised Version And he said to David, Thou art more righteous than I: for thou hast rendered unto me good, whereas I have rendered unto thee evil. GOD'S WORD® Translation He told David, "You are more righteous than I. You treated me well while I treated you badly. Good News Translation Then he said to David, "You are right, and I am wrong. You have been so good to me, while I have done such wrong to you! International Standard Version to David, "You are more righteous than I am, because you have treated me well even though I've treated you poorly. NET Bible He said to David, "You are more innocent than I, for you have treated me well, even though I have tried to harm you! New Heart English Bible He said to David, "You are more righteous than I; for you have done good to me, whereas I have done evil to you. Webster's Bible Translation And he said to David, thou art more righteous than I: for thou hast rewarded me with good, whereas I have rewarded thee with evil. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard Bibleand said to David, “You are more righteous than I, for you have rewarded me with good, though I have rewarded you with evil. World English Bible He said to David, “You are more righteous than I; for you have done good to me, whereas I have done evil to you. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd he says to David, “You [are] more righteous than I; for you have done me good, and I have done you evil; Young's Literal Translation And he saith unto David, 'More righteous thou art than I; for thou hast done me good, and I have done thee evil; Smith's Literal Translation And he will say to David, Thou art just above me, for thou didst reward me good and I rewarded thee evil. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd he said to David: Thou art more just than I: for thou hast done good to me, and I have rewarded thee with evil. Catholic Public Domain Version New American Bible Saul then admitted to David: “You are more in the right than I am. You have treated me graciously, while I have treated you badly. New Revised Standard Version He said to David, “You are more righteous than I; for you have repaid me good, whereas I have repaid you evil. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd he said to David, You are more righteous than I; for you have rewarded me with good, whereas I have rewarded you with evil. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And Shaul said to David: “You are more righteous than I, because you paid me good and I have paid you evil! OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917And he said to David: 'Thou art more righteous than I; for thou hast rendered unto me good, whereas I have rendered unto thee evil. Brenton Septuagint Translation And Saul said to David, Thou art more righteous that I, for thou hast recompensed me good, but I have recompensed thee evil. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context David's Oath to Saul16When David had finished saying these things, Saul called back, “Is that your voice, David my son?” Then Saul wept aloud 17and said to David, “You are more righteous than I, for you have rewarded me with good, though I have rewarded you with evil. 18And you have shown this day how well you have dealt with me; for when the LORD delivered me into your hand, you did not kill me.… Cross References Genesis 50:15-21 When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “What if Joseph bears a grudge? Then he will surely repay us for all the evil that we did to him.” / So they sent word to Joseph, saying, “Before he died, your father commanded, / ‘This is what you are to say to Joseph: I beg you, please forgive the transgression and sin of your brothers, for they did you wrong.’ So now, Joseph, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.” When their message came to him, Joseph wept. ... Matthew 5:44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, Romans 12:20-21 On the contrary, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head.” / Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Proverbs 25:21-22 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. / For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you. Luke 6:27-28 But to those of you who will listen, I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, / bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Genesis 33:4 Esau, however, ran to him and embraced him, threw his arms around his neck, and kissed him. And they both wept. Matthew 18:21-22 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother who sins against me? Up to seven times?” / Jesus answered, “I tell you, not just seven times, but seventy-seven times! Romans 12:17-19 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. / If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. / Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” 1 Peter 3:9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. Genesis 45:4-5 Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come near me.” And they did so. “I am Joseph, your brother,” he said, “the one you sold into Egypt! / And now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves that you sold me into this place, because it was to save lives that God sent me before you. Luke 23:34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up His garments by casting lots. Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you. Colossians 3:13 Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 1 Peter 2:23 When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly. Proverbs 24:17-18 Do not gloat when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart rejoice when he stumbles, / or the LORD will see and disapprove, and turn His wrath away from him. Treasury of Scripture And he said to David, You are more righteous than I: for you have rewarded me good, whereas I have rewarded you evil. Thou art 1 Samuel 26:21 Then said Saul, I have sinned: return, my son David: for I will no more do thee harm, because my soul was precious in thine eyes this day: behold, I have played the fool, and have erred exceedingly. Genesis 38:26 And Judah acknowledged them, and said, She hath been more righteous than I; because that I gave her not to Shelah my son. And he knew her again no more. Exodus 9:27 And Pharaoh sent, and called for Moses and Aaron, and said unto them, I have sinned this time: the LORD is righteous, and I and my people are wicked. thou hast Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; Romans 12:20,21 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head… Jump to Previous Badly David Dealt Evil Rendered Repaid Rewarded Right Righteous Treated Whereas Wickedly WrongJump to Next Badly David Dealt Evil Rendered Repaid Rewarded Right Righteous Treated Whereas Wickedly Wrong1 Samuel 24 1. David, in a cave at En Gedi, spares his life8. He shows thereby his innocence, 16. Saul, acknowledging his fault, takes an oath of David, and departs. and said to David, This phrase occurs after David spares King Saul's life in the cave at En Gedi. Saul acknowledges David's actions, highlighting the tension between the two. David's restraint is significant, as it demonstrates his respect for God's anointed king, despite Saul's pursuit to kill him. This encounter is a pivotal moment in their relationship, showcasing David's integrity and faithfulness to God. “You are more righteous than I, for you have rewarded me with good, though I have rewarded you with evil. Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, who is being pursued by King Saul out of jealousy and fear of losing his throne. 2. Saul The first king of Israel, who is in a state of paranoia and insecurity, leading him to seek David's life despite David's loyalty. 3. The Wilderness of En Gedi A rugged, desert area near the Dead Sea where David and his men were hiding from Saul. 4. The Cave Encounter A significant event where David spares Saul's life, demonstrating mercy and righteousness, despite having the opportunity to kill him. 5. The Acknowledgment of Righteousness Saul's recognition of David's righteousness and his own wrongdoing, highlighting a moment of clarity and truth. Teaching Points Righteousness in ActionDavid exemplifies true righteousness by choosing to do good to Saul despite being wronged. This challenges us to act righteously even when it is difficult. Mercy Over Revenge David's decision to spare Saul's life teaches the importance of mercy over revenge. As Christians, we are called to show mercy as God has shown us. Recognition of Sin Saul's acknowledgment of David's righteousness and his own sinfulness is a reminder of the importance of self-reflection and repentance. Trust in God's Justice David's restraint shows his trust in God's justice rather than taking matters into his own hands. We are encouraged to trust God to right wrongs in His timing. The Power of a Good Example David's behavior serves as a powerful witness to Saul and his men. Our actions can influence others and lead them to recognize truth and righteousness. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 24:17?2. How does 1 Samuel 24:17 demonstrate David's respect for God's anointed leader? 3. What can we learn about humility from Saul's acknowledgment in 1 Samuel 24:17? 4. How does Romans 12:19 relate to David's actions in 1 Samuel 24? 5. How can we apply David's restraint in our conflicts with others today? 6. What does Saul's admission teach about recognizing righteousness in others? 7. How does 1 Samuel 24:17 demonstrate David's righteousness compared to Saul's actions? 8. What does Saul's acknowledgment in 1 Samuel 24:17 reveal about his character and leadership? 9. How does 1 Samuel 24:17 reflect the theme of divine justice in the Bible? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 24? 11. How do we reconcile the differences between 1 Chronicles 17 and 2 Samuel 7 regarding the details of God's covenant with David? 12. If Saul recognized David’s righteousness (1 Samuel 24:16–21), why did hostilities continue in later chapters, suggesting inconsistency? 13. If Saul previously admitted David’s righteousness in 1 Samuel 24, why is he chasing David again in 1 Samuel 26? 14. How is it historically accurate that David carried Goliath's head to Jerusalem if it wasn't yet under Israelite control (1 Samuel 17:54)? What Does 1 Samuel 24:17 Mean and said to David,Saul has just exited the cave at En-gedi when David calls out, showing the corner of Saul’s robe he has cut off (1 Samuel 24:11). Saul’s first words back are not threats but confession. • The Spirit has pinned Saul’s conscience, so he initiates a humbled conversation (1 Samuel 24:16). • Moments earlier Saul had entered the cave intent on killing David (1 Samuel 24:2), yet now he must acknowledge the truth placed before him—God’s anointed spared him. Cross references woven into this scene highlight how the Lord confronts sin through unexpected words: Nathan to David (2 Samuel 12:7), Elijah to Ahab (1 Kings 21:20), John to Herod (Mark 6:18). God often starts change with direct address. You are more righteous than I, Saul openly contrasts his own heart with David’s. “Righteous” here means acting in line with God’s revealed will. • David has respected the Lord’s timing and refused to seize the throne by violence (1 Samuel 24:6). • Saul confesses his own lack of righteousness—he has pursued an innocent man (1 Samuel 19:1, 23:14). • Similar admissions appear when Judah tells Tamar, “She is more righteous than I” (Genesis 38:26), and when Peter weeps after denying Christ (Luke 22:62). These moments underline Proverbs 28:13: “He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.” for you have rewarded me with good, David answered hatred with kindness. His “good” was practical and immediate: sparing Saul’s life, calling him “my father,” and appealing for peace (1 Samuel 24:11–15). • David’s choice previews the New-Covenant ethic later written, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing” (1 Peter 3:9). • Romans 12:17-21 echoes the same principle: “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… overcome evil with good.” • Proverbs 25:21-22 shows that such goodness “heaps burning coals” on an enemy’s head—precisely what David’s mercy does to Saul’s conscience. David demonstrates that genuine faith acts, not just speaks (James 2:18). though I have rewarded you with evil. Saul finally names his behavior for what it is—evil. • Envy (1 Samuel 18:9), attempted murder (18:11), and relentless pursuit (23:19-23) are the “evil” deeds he references. • Proverbs 17:13: “If anyone returns evil for good, evil will never leave his house,” a warning already unfolding in Saul’s tragic downfall. • 1 John 3:12 contrasts Cain, who murdered his brother because “his own deeds were evil,” with the righteous. Saul has been walking Cain’s path. This confession spotlights the stark divide between fleshly jealousy and Spirit-led mercy. summary Saul’s fourfold statement stands as a living illustration of Romans 12:21—David’s goodness overcomes Saul’s evil, at least for this moment. The passage teaches that: • Righteousness is revealed when a believer refuses to seize advantage but waits on God. • Kindness toward an enemy exposes sin and moves even hardened hearts toward confession. • Naming evil for what it is marks the first step out of darkness. David’s restraint, rooted in reverence for the Lord’s anointing, foreshadows the Savior who would “commit no sin, nor was deceit found in His mouth… but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:22-23). Hebrew and saidוַיֹּ֙אמֶר֙ (way·yō·mer) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular Strong's 559: To utter, say to אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to David, דָּוִ֔ד (dā·wiḏ) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 1732: David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse “You אַתָּ֖ה (’at·tāh) Pronoun - second person masculine singular Strong's 859: Thou and thee, ye and you are more righteous צַדִּ֥יק (ṣad·dîq) Adjective - masculine singular Strong's 6662: Just, righteous than I, מִמֶּ֑נִּי (mim·men·nî) Preposition | first person common singular Strong's 4480: A part of, from, out of for כִּ֤י (kî) Conjunction Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction you אַתָּה֙ (’at·tāh) Pronoun - second person masculine singular Strong's 859: Thou and thee, ye and you have rewarded me גְּמַלְתַּ֣נִי (gə·mal·ta·nî) Verb - Qal - Perfect - second person masculine singular | first person common singular Strong's 1580: To deal fully or adequately with, deal out to, wean, ripen with good, הַטּוֹבָ֔ה (haṭ·ṭō·w·ḇāh) Article | Noun - feminine singular Strong's 2896: Pleasant, agreeable, good though I וַאֲנִ֖י (wa·’ă·nî) Conjunctive waw | Pronoun - first person common singular Strong's 589: I have rewarded you גְּמַלְתִּ֥יךָ (gə·mal·tî·ḵā) Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular | second person masculine singular Strong's 1580: To deal fully or adequately with, deal out to, wean, ripen with evil. הָרָעָֽה׃ (hā·rā·‘āh) Article | Adjective - feminine singular Strong's 7451: Bad, evil Links 1 Samuel 24:17 NIV1 Samuel 24:17 NLT 1 Samuel 24:17 ESV 1 Samuel 24:17 NASB 1 Samuel 24:17 KJV 1 Samuel 24:17 BibleApps.com 1 Samuel 24:17 Biblia Paralela 1 Samuel 24:17 Chinese Bible 1 Samuel 24:17 French Bible 1 Samuel 24:17 Catholic Bible OT History: 1 Samuel 24:17 He said to David You are more (1Sa iSam 1 Sam i sa) |