1 Samuel 24:5 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 24:5 mean?

1 Samuel 24:5 describes how David felt guilty in his heart after secretly cutting off a piece of Saul’s robe. Even though David had the chance to harm Saul, he was troubled by his own action of just damaging Saul’s clothing.

David was hiding in a cave when Saul, the king who was hunting him, entered without knowing David was there. Instead of attacking Saul, David quietly cut off part of Saul’s robe. Afterward, David’s conscience bothered him, showing his deep respect for Saul’s position as king and his sensitivity to doing what was right, even in small things.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 24:5

• לֵב (lev, “heart”): This word often refers to the inner self or conscience, not just emotions. Here, it means David’s conscience was deeply affected, not just that he felt a passing emotion.
• נָכָה (nakah, “smote”): This verb means to strike or hit. In this context, it describes David’s heart “striking” him, a vivid way to say he felt a sharp pang of guilt or regret.
• כָּנָף (kanaph, “skirt”): This word means the edge or corner of a garment. Cutting off the “skirt” of Saul’s robe was more than just damaging clothing; it symbolized touching the authority or dignity of the king.

Why 1 Samuel 24:5 matters

• This verse shows that David’s sense of right and wrong was so strong that even a small act against Saul’s dignity troubled him, highlighting his respect for God’s chosen king.
• The verse helps explain why David later refuses to harm Saul, even when pressured by his men—his conscience would not allow him to disrespect Saul’s role.
• Understanding David’s reaction here adds depth to his character in the wider story, showing why he is often described as “a man after God’s own heart.”