What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 18:11? He hurled it “and he hurled it” (1 Samuel 18:11) • Saul’s spear is a literal weapon in his hand, but it also reveals his heart. Earlier the king loved David (18:2); now, inflamed by jealousy after the women’s song (18:7–9), he acts on murderous rage. • Scripture consistently shows how unchecked anger escalates into violence—Cain rose up against Abel (Genesis 4:5–8), and an angry man stirs up strife (Proverbs 29:22). • Saul’s action is deliberate. Unlike a sudden outburst, he waits with the spear in hand while David ministers to him with music (18:10), highlighting the contrast between Saul’s hatred and David’s service. • The scene foreshadows Saul’s later attempts (19:9–10) and illustrates James 1:20: “For man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness of God.” Thinking, “I will pin David to the wall.” • The phrase gives us Saul’s internal dialogue; his intent is unmistakably lethal. Murder in the heart precedes murder by the hand (Matthew 5:21–22). • Jealousy drives the plot. Saul resents God’s favor on David (18:12) much like Joseph’s brothers envied him (Genesis 37:11). • Saul’s words expose rebellion against God’s command, “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13). Instead of defending Israel’s anointed champion, he seeks to destroy him. • 1 John 3:12 reminds us that, like Cain, Saul’s jealousy is rooted in unrighteousness: “And why did he kill him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s were righteous.” But David eluded him twice. • Though the spear flies twice, David survives twice. The repetition underscores God’s protective hand (Psalm 34:19; 2 Samuel 22:31). • David does not retaliate. His restraint anticipates his later mercy in the caves of En-gedi and Hakilah (1 Samuel 24; 26), embodying Proverbs 19:11: “A man’s insight gives him patience, and his virtue is to overlook an offense.” • God’s sovereign preservation allows David to continue serving, composing, and ultimately ascending to the throne (2 Samuel 5:4). The enemy’s weapons cannot overturn the Lord’s purposes (Isaiah 54:17). summary 1 Samuel 18:11 pictures a jealous king hurling his spear, intent on murder, while God shields His chosen servant. Saul’s violent act exposes the corrosive power of envy; David’s escape highlights divine protection and patient faith. The verse warns against nurturing anger and comforts us with the assurance that God’s plans for His people stand firm, even when spears are flying. |
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