This verse from 1 Samuel 30:3 describes a devastating scene. It means that when David and his soldiers returned to their city, Ziklag, they found it completely destroyed.
"When David and his men came to the city..." This establishes the context. David and his soldiers were returning after a period away, likely on a military campaign with the Philistines.
"...behold, it was burned with fire..." They discovered that their city had been attacked and burned down. The word "behold" indicates a startling and unexpected sight.
"...and their wives, their sons, and their daughters were taken captive." To make matters worse, the Amalekites had not just destroyed the city, they had also kidnapped all the women and children. This would have been a catastrophic loss for the men, both emotionally and practically. It's important to note that "taken captive" in ancient times often meant slavery or worse.
In summary, the verse paints a picture of utter desolation and loss. It sets the stage for the reaction of David and his men (grief and anger) and the subsequent actions they take to recover their families. It is a pivotal moment in the narrative, testing David's leadership and faith.
This verse from 1 Samuel 30:3 describes a devastating scene. It means that when David and his soldiers returned to their city, Ziklag, they found it completely destroyed.
"When David and his men came to the city..." This establishes the context. David and his soldiers were returning after a period away, likely on a military campaign with the Philistines.
"...behold, it was burned with fire..." They discovered that their city had been attacked and burned down. The word "behold" indicates a startling and unexpected sight.
"...and their wives, their sons, and their daughters were taken captive." To make matters worse, the Amalekites had not just destroyed the city, they had also kidnapped all the women and children. This would have been a catastrophic loss for the men, both emotionally and practically. It's important to note that "taken captive" in ancient times often meant slavery or worse.
In summary, the verse paints a picture of utter desolation and loss. It sets the stage for the reaction of David and his men (grief and anger) and the subsequent actions they take to recover their families. It is a pivotal moment in the narrative, testing David's leadership and faith.