1 Samuel 16:20 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 16:20 mean?

1 Samuel 16:20 describes Jesse sending his son David to Saul with gifts: a donkey loaded with bread, a bottle of wine, and a young goat. This verse shows Jesse’s respect for Saul by sending these provisions as David goes to serve in the king’s court.

Jesse, David’s father, is acting in response to Saul’s earlier request for David to come to him. The setting is Bethlehem, and David is being sent to Saul, who is king of Israel at this time. The verse highlights the custom of bringing gifts when approaching someone important, and it sets up David’s entrance into Saul’s household.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 16:20

• חֲמוֹר (ḥamor, “ass”): The word refers to a donkey, which was a common animal for carrying loads. The mention of a donkey “laden” with goods emphasizes the generosity and respectfulness of Jesse’s gesture.
• לֶחֶם (leḥem, “bread”): This word means bread or food in general. Including bread in the gifts shows thoughtfulness, as bread was a staple and symbol of hospitality.
• נֹאד (no’d, “bottle”): This refers to a leather container for liquids, often wine or water. The use of a bottle of wine (יַיִן, yayin) underlines the completeness of the provision, as wine was a valued part of meals and offerings.
• גְּדִי (gədi, “kid”): This word means a young goat. Bringing a kid as part of the gift shows generosity, since meat was not eaten daily and was considered a special offering.

Why 1 Samuel 16:20 matters

• This verse clarifies that David’s arrival at Saul’s court was not abrupt or disrespectful; Jesse sends him with appropriate gifts, following the customs of the time.
• The verse connects to the wider story by showing David’s humble beginnings and his family’s obedience to the king’s request, setting the stage for David’s later rise.
• The details of the gifts help the reader see the seriousness and honor with which Jesse approaches Saul, highlighting the importance of hospitality and respect in ancient Israel.