1 Samuel 25:15 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 25:15 mean?

1 Samuel 25:15 describes how David’s men treated Nabal’s shepherds with kindness and respect, never harming them or allowing any loss while they were together in the fields. The verse highlights the safety and good treatment the shepherds experienced as long as David’s men were around.

In this verse, one of Nabal’s servants is speaking to Abigail, Nabal’s wife, explaining how David’s men acted honorably and protected the shepherds during their time in the fields. This is part of a larger story where David’s men had been guarding Nabal’s flocks, and the servant is trying to persuade Abigail that David’s request for provisions was reasonable, given the protection they had provided.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 25:15

• "Very" (מְאֹד, me’od): This word emphasizes the degree of goodness shown by David’s men, stressing that their kindness was not just ordinary but exceptional.
• "Good" (טוֹב, tov): This word means "good" or "beneficial," and here it refers to the positive, protective actions of David’s men toward Nabal’s shepherds.
• "Hurt" (כָּלַם, khalam): This word often means "to be harmed" or "to be shamed." The servant is saying there was no harm or disgrace brought upon them.
• "Missed" (פָּקַד, paqad): This word can mean "to lack" or "to miss." The servant is making it clear that nothing was lost or stolen while David’s men were present.
• "Conversant" (הָלַךְ, halakh): This word literally means "to walk" or "to go about." Here, it refers to the time the shepherds spent moving around and working in the fields with David’s men nearby.

Why 1 Samuel 25:15 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that David’s men were a threat or nuisance; instead, they acted as protectors, which is important for understanding why David later feels wronged by Nabal’s refusal.
• The servant’s testimony shows that David’s request for food and hospitality was based on a relationship of goodwill and mutual benefit, not intimidation or extortion.
• This detail helps set up Abigail’s wise intervention and highlights the contrast between David’s honorable behavior and Nabal’s foolishness in the wider story.