Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the lion slain by David is a testament to the young shepherd's courage, faith, and divine favor. This event is primarily referenced in the context of David's preparation for his encounter with Goliath, as recorded in the First Book of Samuel.Biblical Account The account of David's encounter with the lion is found in 1 Samuel 17:34-36. When David volunteers to fight Goliath, he recounts his past experiences as a shepherd defending his flock. He tells King Saul, "Your servant has been tending his father’s sheep, and whenever a lion or a bear came and carried off a lamb from the flock, I went after it, struck it down, and rescued the lamb from its mouth. If it reared up against me, I would grab it by its fur, strike it down, and kill it" (1 Samuel 17:34-35). David's recounting of these events serves to demonstrate his capability and reliance on God's deliverance. Symbolism and Significance The lion, often a symbol of strength and ferocity, represents formidable challenges and adversaries. David's victory over the lion signifies his God-given strength and courage, qualities that would define his future leadership as king of Israel. This episode foreshadows David's triumph over Goliath, emphasizing that his victories are not by human might but through divine intervention. David's ability to slay the lion also highlights his role as a protector and shepherd, a motif that resonates throughout his life and reign. This imagery is later echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus is referred to as the "Good Shepherd" (John 10:11), drawing a parallel between David's protective nature and Christ's care for His followers. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, David's encounter with the lion underscores the theme of divine empowerment. It illustrates the belief that God equips His chosen servants with the necessary strength and courage to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This narrative encourages believers to trust in God's provision and protection, even in the face of daunting challenges. Furthermore, David's reliance on God rather than conventional means of warfare (such as armor or weapons) serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and obedience. His confidence in God's deliverance is a model for believers, demonstrating that faith can lead to victory over the "lions" in one's life. Historical and Cultural Context In the ancient Near East, lions were common and posed a real threat to livestock and people. Shepherds like David would have been familiar with the dangers posed by these predators. The ability to protect one's flock from such threats was a valued skill and indicative of a shepherd's bravery and competence. David's triumph over the lion would have resonated with the Israelites, who understood the peril and courage involved in such an encounter. This account would have served to bolster David's reputation as a divinely chosen leader, capable of protecting and guiding the nation of Israel. Conclusion The account of David slaying the lion is a powerful narrative that highlights themes of divine empowerment, faith, and leadership. It serves as a prelude to David's greater victories and his eventual role as king, illustrating the profound impact of God's presence in the lives of those He calls. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 17:35,36And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library How Jadon the Prophet was Persuaded by Another Lying Prophet and ... How the Hebrews were Delivered from a Famine when the Gibeonites ... One Lion Two Lions no Lion at All David the Shepherd Youth. David's Weakness From the Fifth Chapter. There have Come to Me Ransomers from among the Saints, but None ... How the Philistines Made Another Expedition against the Hebrews ... The Sealed Book. This Affection the Martyrs of Christ Contending for the Truth did ... Resources Who/what is the Lion of the tribe of Judah? | GotQuestions.orgHow should we understand the Lion and the Lamb passage? | GotQuestions.org What are the Christian themes in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe? | GotQuestions.org Lion: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lion used for the Torture of Criminals Lion: An Unnamed Person Killed By Lion: Disobedient Prophet Killed By Lion: Instincts of, in Taking Prey Lion: Samson's Riddle Concerning Lion: Sent As Judgment Upon the Samaritans Lion: The Bases in the Temple Ornamented by Mouldings of Lion: Twelve Statues of, on the Stairs Leading to Solomon's Throne The Lion of Boldness of Saints The Lion of Cruel and Powerful Enemies The Lion of God in Executing Judgments The Lion of God in Protecting his Church The Lion of Imaginary Fears of the Slothful The Lion of the Tribe of Judah The Lion: (Roaring of) a King's Wrath The Lion: (Tamed) the Natural Man Subdued by Grace The Lion: A Swarm of Bees Found in the Carcass of, by Samson The Lion: Attacks and Destroys Men The Lion: Attacks the Sheepfolds The Lion: Conceals Itself by Day The Lion: Criminals often Thrown To The Lion: Disobedient Prophet Slain By The Lion: Fearless Even of Man The Lion: God's Power Exhibited in Restraining The Lion: Greatness of Its Teeth Alluded To The Lion: Hunting of, Alluded To The Lion: Majestic in Movement The Lion: Often Carries Its Prey to Its Den The Lion: Often Perishes for Lack of Food The Lion: Roars when Seeking Prey The Lion: Superior in Strength The Lion: Universal Terror Caused by Roaring of Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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