1 Samuel 26:8 · KJV

"Then said Abishai to David, God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day: now therefore let me smite him, I pray thee, with the spear even to the earth at once, and I will not smite him the second time."

King James Version

Passage Context

⁶Then answered David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, brother to Joab, saying, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? And Abishai said, I will go down with thee.

⁷So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay sleeping within the trench, and his spear stuck in the ground at his bolster: but Abner and the people lay round about him.

⁸Then said Abishai to David, God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day: now therefore let me smite him, I pray thee, with the spear even to the earth at once, and I will not smite him the second time.

⁹And David said to Abishai, Destroy him not: for who can stretch forth his hand against the LORD'S anointed, and be guiltless?

¹⁰David said furthermore, As the LORD liveth, the LORD shall smite him; or his day shall come to die; or he shall descend into battle, and perish.

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Reflection Questions

How do you respond to temptations for revenge?

What does it mean for you to show mercy?

When have you chosen not to retaliate?

Life Application

forgiveness

Consider how you can practice forgiveness in your life.

morality

Reflect on the ethical choices you face in difficult situations.

People in This Verse

AbishaiOT

Joab's brother and a valiant warrior who served under David. He was known for his bravery and loyalty.

First appearance: 1 Samuel 26:6

DavidBoth

The second king of Israel, known for his leadership, poetry, and a heart for God. He is a central figure in both Jewish and Christian traditions.

First appearance: 1 Samuel 16:1

SaulOT

Saul was the first king of Israel, chosen by God but later rejected for disobedience. His life serves as a cautionary tale about pride and the consequences of turning away from God.

First appearance: 1 Samuel 9:1

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