This verse, 1 Samuel 16:20, describes Jesse, David's father, sending a gift of provisions to King Saul. It's important to understand the context of the surrounding verses to fully grasp its meaning:
Context: In the previous verses, the spirit of the Lord had departed from Saul, and he was troubled by an evil spirit. Saul's servants recommended finding someone skilled in playing the lyre to soothe him. One of the servants knew David, who was not only skilled in music but also a valiant warrior. Saul sent for David, and he served Saul as a musician, and Saul loved him greatly and became his armor-bearer.
Meaning of the verse:
Jesse's intention: Jesse's action of sending these provisions indicates that he recognized David's new position in Saul's court and wanted to show respect and support. It's a way of acknowledging Saul's authority and ensuring that David would be well-received and cared for.
The gifts: The gifts themselves are significant:
Bread: A staple food, indicating a desire to provide sustenance.
Wine: A beverage that could be used for refreshment or offering as a courtesy.
Young Goat: A valuable source of meat.
David as the messenger: Sending David shows Jesse's trust in his son's ability to deliver the gifts properly and conduct himself appropriately in the presence of the king.
Symbolic Significance: Some scholars interpret this gesture beyond mere hospitality. The gifts can be seen as a form of tribute, acknowledging Saul's kingship and David's role in serving him.
Summary: The verse signifies Jesse's recognition of David's service to Saul. The gifts of food and wine are practical expressions of support, respect, and a desire to ensure David's well-being in his new role at the royal court. They also demonstrate Jesse's acknowledgment of Saul's authority. It reinforces David's humble origins and his entry into the royal court through his musical abilities and subsequent favor with Saul.
This verse, 1 Samuel 16:20, describes Jesse, David's father, sending a gift of provisions to King Saul. It's important to understand the context of the surrounding verses to fully grasp its meaning:
Context: In the previous verses, the spirit of the Lord had departed from Saul, and he was troubled by an evil spirit. Saul's servants recommended finding someone skilled in playing the lyre to soothe him. One of the servants knew David, who was not only skilled in music but also a valiant warrior. Saul sent for David, and he served Saul as a musician, and Saul loved him greatly and became his armor-bearer.
Meaning of the verse:
Jesse's intention: Jesse's action of sending these provisions indicates that he recognized David's new position in Saul's court and wanted to show respect and support. It's a way of acknowledging Saul's authority and ensuring that David would be well-received and cared for.
The gifts: The gifts themselves are significant:
Bread: A staple food, indicating a desire to provide sustenance.
Wine: A beverage that could be used for refreshment or offering as a courtesy.
Young Goat: A valuable source of meat.
David as the messenger: Sending David shows Jesse's trust in his son's ability to deliver the gifts properly and conduct himself appropriately in the presence of the king.
Symbolic Significance: Some scholars interpret this gesture beyond mere hospitality. The gifts can be seen as a form of tribute, acknowledging Saul's kingship and David's role in serving him.
Summary: The verse signifies Jesse's recognition of David's service to Saul. The gifts of food and wine are practical expressions of support, respect, and a desire to ensure David's well-being in his new role at the royal court. They also demonstrate Jesse's acknowledgment of Saul's authority. It reinforces David's humble origins and his entry into the royal court through his musical abilities and subsequent favor with Saul.