CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Samuel 16:18 One of the servants answered, "I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the harp. He is a mighty man of valor, a warrior, eloquent and handsome, and the LORD is with him."</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_samuel/16-18.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/20/09_1Sa_16_18.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Samuel 16:18 - David Serves Saul" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="One of the servants answered, I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the harp. He is a mighty man of valor, a warrior, eloquent and handsome, and the LORD is with him." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_samuel/16-18.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_samuel/16-18.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_samuel/">1 Samuel</a> > <a href="/1_samuel/16.htm">Chapter 16</a> > Verse 18</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad18.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_samuel/16-17.htm" title="1 Samuel 16:17">◄</a> 1 Samuel 16:18 <a href="/1_samuel/16-19.htm" title="1 Samuel 16:19">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_samuel/16.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_samuel/16.htm">New International Version</a> One of the servants answered, &#8220I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the lyre. He is a brave man and a warrior. He speaks well and is a fine-looking man. And the LORD is with him.&#8221 <a href="/nlt/1_samuel/16.htm">New Living Translation</a> One of the servants said to Saul, “One of Jesse’s sons from Bethlehem is a talented harp player. Not only that—he is a brave warrior, a man of war, and has good judgment. He is also a fine-looking young man, and the LORD is with him.” <a href="/esv/1_samuel/16.htm">English Standard Version</a> One of the young men answered, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the LORD is with him.” <a href="/bsb/1_samuel/16.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> One of the servants answered, “I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the harp. He is a mighty man of valor, a warrior, eloquent and handsome, and the LORD is with him.” <a href="/kjv/1_samuel/16.htm">King James Bible</a> Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, that is cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the LORD is with him. <a href="/nkjv/1_samuel/16.htm">New King James Version</a> Then one of the servants answered and said, “Look, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a mighty man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a handsome person; and the LORD is with him.” <a href="/nasb_/1_samuel/16.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Then one of the young men responded and said, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is a skillful musician, a valiant mighty man, a warrior, skillful in speech, and a handsome man; and the LORD is with him.” <a href="/nasb/1_samuel/16.htm">NASB 1995</a> Then one of the young men said, &#8220Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is a skillful musician, a mighty man of valor, a warrior, one prudent in speech, and a handsome man; and the LORD is with him.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/1_samuel/16.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Then one of the young men answered and said, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is a skillful musician, a mighty man of valor, a warrior, one prudent in speech, and a handsome man; and the LORD is with him.” <a href="/lsb/1_samuel/16.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Then one of the young men answered and said, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is a skillful musician, a mighty man of valor, a warrior, one who is understanding in speech, and man of fine form; and Yahweh is with him.” <a href="/amp/1_samuel/16.htm">Amplified Bible</a> One of the young men said, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is a skillful musician, a brave and competent man, a warrior, discerning (prudent, eloquent) in speech, and a handsome man; and the LORD is with him.” <a href="/csb/1_samuel/16.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> One of the young men answered, “I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the lyre. He is also a valiant man, a warrior, eloquent, handsome, and the LORD is with him.” <a href="/hcsb/1_samuel/16.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> One of the young men answered, &#8220I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the lyre. He is also a valiant man, a warrior, eloquent, handsome, and the LORD is with him.&#8221 <a href="/asv/1_samuel/16.htm">American Standard Version</a> Then answered one of the young men, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Beth-lehemite, that is skilful in playing, and a mighty man of valor, and a man of war, and prudent in speech, and a comely person; and Jehovah is with him. <a href="/cev/1_samuel/16.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> "A man named Jesse who lives in Bethlehem has a son who can play the harp," one official said. "He's a brave warrior, he's good-looking, he can speak well, and the LORD is with him." <a href="/erv/1_samuel/16.htm">English Revised Version</a> Then answered one of the young men, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Beth-lehemite, that is cunning in playing, and a mighty man of valour, and a man of war, and prudent in speech, and a comely person, and the LORD is with him. <a href="/gwt/1_samuel/16.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> One of the officials said, "I know one of Jesse's sons from Bethlehem who can play well. He's a courageous man and a warrior. He has a way with words, he is handsome, and the LORD is with him." <a href="/gnt/1_samuel/16.htm">Good News Translation</a> One of his attendants said, "Jesse of the town of Bethlehem has a son who is a good musician. He is also a brave and handsome man, a good soldier, and an able speaker. The LORD is with him." <a href="/isv/1_samuel/16.htm">International Standard Version</a> One of the young men answered: "Look, I've seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is skilled in playing. The man is a valiant soldier, gifted in speech, and handsome. And the LORD is with him." <a href="/msb/1_samuel/16.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> One of the servants answered, ?I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the harp. He is a mighty man of valor, a warrior, eloquent and handsome, and the LORD is with him.? <a href="/net/1_samuel/16.htm">NET Bible</a> One of his attendants replied, "I have seen a son of Jesse in Bethlehem who knows how to play the lyre. He is a brave warrior and is articulate and handsome, for the LORD is with him." <a href="/nheb/1_samuel/16.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Then one of the young men answered, and said, "Look, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is playing, and a mighty man of valor, and a warrior, and articulate in speech, and a handsome man; and the LORD is with him." <a href="/wbt/1_samuel/16.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Beth-lehemite, that is skillful in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the LORD is with him. <a href="/web/1_samuel/16.htm">World English Bible</a> Then one of the young men answered and said, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is skillful in playing, a mighty man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a handsome person; and Yahweh is with him.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_samuel/16.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And one of the servants answers and says, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Beth-Lehemite, skillful in playing, and a mighty, virtuous man, and a man of battle, and intelligent in word, and a man of form, and YHWH [is] with him.” <a href="/ylt/1_samuel/16.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And one of the servants answereth and saith, 'Lo, I have seen a son of Jesse the Beth-Lehemite, skilful in playing, and a mighty virtuous man, and a man of battle, and intelligent in word, and a man of form, and Jehovah is with him.' <a href="/slt/1_samuel/16.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And one of his boys will answer and say, I saw a son to Jesse of the House of Bread, knowing to play, mighty of strength, and a man of war, and discerning the word, and a man of figure, and Jehovah with him.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_samuel/16.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And one of the servants answering, said: Behold I have seen a son of Isai the Bethlehemite, a skilful player, and one of great strength, and a man fit for war, and prudent in his words, and a comely person: and the Lord is with him. <a href="/cpdv/1_samuel/16.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And one of the servants, responding, said: “Behold, I have seen the son of Jesse of Bethlehem, a skillful player, and very strong and robust, a man fit for war, and prudent in words, a handsome man. And the Lord is with him.” <a href="/nabre/1_samuel/16.htm">New American Bible</a> One of the servants spoke up: “I have observed that a son of Jesse of Bethlehem is a skillful harpist. He is also a brave warrior, an able speaker, and a handsome young man. The LORD is certainly with him.” <a href="/nrsvce/1_samuel/16.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> One of the young men answered, “I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a warrior, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence; and the LORD is with him.”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_samuel/16.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Then one of the young men answered and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Beth-lehemite, who is skilful in playing and a mighty valiant man, a man of war and prudent in speech, a handsome man, and the LORD is with him. <a href="/hpbt/1_samuel/16.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And one of the young men answered and said: “Behold, I have seen a son of Iyshay who is from Bayth Lekhem, and he knows how to play and is mighty of his power, and the man is a warrior and is discerning of mind, and his appearance is handsome and LORD JEHOVAH is with him”<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/1_samuel/16.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> Then answered one of the young men, and said: 'Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Beth-lehemite, that is skilful in playing, and a mighty man of valour, and a man of war, and prudent in affairs, and a comely person, and the LORD is with him.' <a href="/sep/1_samuel/16.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> And one of his servants answered and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jessae the Bethleemite, and he understands playing on the harp, and the man is prudent, and a warrior, and wise in speech, and the man is handsome, and the Lord is with him. <a href="/parallel/1_samuel/16-18.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H8oQfYUMRZg?start=4564" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_samuel/16.htm">David Serves Saul</a> …17And Saul commanded his servants, “Find me someone who plays well, and bring him to me.” 18<a href="/hebrew/259.htm" title="259: ’e·ḥāḏ (Number-ms) -- One. A numeral from 'achad; properly, united, i.e. One; or first.">One</a> <a href="/hebrew/5288.htm" title="5288: mê·han·nə·‘ā·rîm (Prep-m, Art:: N-mp) -- A boy, lad, youth, retainer. From na'ar; a boy, from the age of infancy to adolescence; by implication, a servant; also, a girl.">of the servants</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: way·yō·mer (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say."></a> <a href="/hebrew/2009.htm" title="2009: hin·nêh (Interjection) -- Lo! behold! Prolongation for hen; lo!"></a> <a href="/hebrew/6030.htm" title="6030: way·ya·‘an (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To answer, respond.">answered,</a> <a href="/hebrew/7200.htm" title="7200: rā·’î·ṯî (V-Qal-Perf-1cs) -- To see. A primitive root; to see, literally or figuratively.">“I have seen</a> <a href="/hebrew/1121.htm" title="1121: bên (N-ms) -- Son. From banah; a son, in the widest sense (like 'ab, 'ach, etc.).">a son</a> <a href="/hebrew/3448.htm" title="3448: lə·yi·šay (Prep-l:: N-proper-ms) -- Father of David. By Aramaic Iyshay; from the same as yesh; extant; Jishai, David's father.">of Jesse</a> <a href="/hebrew/1022.htm" title="1022: bêṯ (Prep) -- An inhab. of Bethlehem. Patrial from Beyth Lechem with the article inserted; a Beth-lechemite, or native of Bethlechem."></a> <a href="/hebrew/1022.htm" title="1022: hal·laḥ·mî (N-proper-ms) -- An inhab. of Bethlehem. Patrial from Beyth Lechem with the article inserted; a Beth-lechemite, or native of Bethlechem.">of Bethlehem</a> <a href="/hebrew/3045.htm" title="3045: yō·ḏê·a‘ (V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- A primitive root; to know; used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially.">who knows</a> <a href="/hebrew/5059.htm" title="5059: nag·gên (V-Piel-Inf) -- A primitive root; properly, to thrum, i.e. Beat a tune with the fingers; expec. To play on a stringed instrument; hence, to make music.">how to play the harp.</a> <a href="/hebrew/1368.htm" title="1368: wə·ḡib·bō·wr (Conj-w:: Adj-msc) -- Strong, mighty. Or gibbor; intensive from the same as geber; powerful; by implication, warrior, tyrant.">He is a mighty man</a> <a href="/hebrew/2428.htm" title="2428: ḥa·yil (N-ms) -- From chuwl; probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength.">of valor,</a> <a href="/hebrew/376.htm" title="376: wə·’îš (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- Man. Contracted for 'enowsh; a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term.">a warrior,</a> <a href="/hebrew/4421.htm" title="4421: mil·ḥā·māh (N-fs) -- A battle, war. From lacham; a battle; generally, war."></a> <a href="/hebrew/995.htm" title="995: ū·nə·ḇō·wn (Conj-w:: V-Nifal-Prtcpl-msc) -- To discern. A primitive root; to separate mentally, i.e.(generally) understand.">eloquent</a> <a href="/hebrew/1697.htm" title="1697: dā·ḇār (N-ms) -- Speech, word. From dabar; a word; by implication, a matter or thing; adverbially, a cause."></a> <a href="/hebrew/376.htm" title="376: wə·’îš (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- Man. Contracted for 'enowsh; a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term."></a> <a href="/hebrew/8389.htm" title="8389: tō·’ar (N-ms) -- Outline, form. From ta'ar; outline, i.e. Figure or appearance.">and handsome,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (Conj-w:: N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">and the LORD</a> <a href="/hebrew/5973.htm" title="5973: ‘im·mōw (Prep:: 3ms) -- From amam; adverb or preposition, with, in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix.">is with him.”</a> 19So Saul sent messengers to Jesse and said, “Send me your son David, who is with the sheep.”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/psalms/78-70.htm">Psalm 78:70-72</a> He chose David His servant and took him from the sheepfolds; / from tending the ewes He brought him to be shepherd of His people Jacob, of Israel His inheritance. / So David shepherded them with integrity of heart and guided them with skillful hands. <a href="/1_samuel/17-34.htm">1 Samuel 17:34-37</a> David replied, “Your servant has been tending his father’s sheep, and whenever a lion or a bear came and carried off a lamb from the flock, / I went after it, struck it down, and delivered the lamb from its mouth. If it reared up against me, I would grab it by its fur, strike it down, and kill it. / Your servant has killed lions and bears; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God.” ... <a href="/1_samuel/13-14.htm">1 Samuel 13:14</a> But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought a man after His own heart and appointed him ruler over His people, because you have not kept the command of the LORD.” <a href="/2_samuel/23-1.htm">2 Samuel 23:1</a> These are the last words of David: “The oracle of David son of Jesse, the oracle of the man raised on high, the one anointed by the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel: <a href="/1_chronicles/11-2.htm">1 Chronicles 11:2</a> Even in times past, while Saul was king, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them back. And the LORD your God said, ‘You will shepherd My people Israel, and you will be ruler over them.’” <a href="/1_chronicles/16-7.htm">1 Chronicles 16:7</a> On that day David first committed to Asaph and his associates this song of thanksgiving to the LORD: <a href="/1_chronicles/25-1.htm">1 Chronicles 25:1</a> Additionally, David and the commanders of the army set apart some of the sons of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun to prophesy with the accompaniment of lyres, harps, and cymbals. The following is the list of the men who performed this service: <a href="/2_chronicles/29-25.htm">2 Chronicles 29:25</a> Hezekiah stationed the Levites in the house of the LORD with cymbals, harps, and lyres according to the command of David, of Gad the king’s seer, and of Nathan the prophet. For the command had come from the LORD through His prophets. <a href="/psalms/89-20.htm">Psalm 89:20</a> I have found My servant David; with My sacred oil I have anointed him. <a href="/psalms/23-1.htm">Psalm 23:1</a> A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. <a href="/psalms/144-1.htm">Psalm 144:1</a> Of David. Blessed be the LORD, my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle. <a href="/acts/13-22.htm">Acts 13:22</a> After removing Saul, He raised up David as their king and testified about him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse a man after My own heart; he will carry out My will in its entirety.’ <a href="/acts/13-36.htm">Acts 13:36</a> For when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep. His body was buried with his fathers and saw decay. <a href="/matthew/1-1.htm">Matthew 1:1</a> This is the record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham: <a href="/luke/3-31.htm">Luke 3:31</a> the son of Melea, the son of Menna, the son of Mattatha, the son of Nathan, the son of David,</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, that is cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the LORD is with him.a mighty<a href="/1_samuel/17-32.htm">1 Samuel 17:32-36</a> And David said to Saul, Let no man's heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this Philistine… <a href="/2_samuel/17-8.htm">2 Samuel 17:8,10</a> For, said Hushai, thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds, as a bear robbed of her whelps in the field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge with the people… and prudent<a href="/2_samuel/14-20.htm">2 Samuel 14:20</a> To fetch about this form of speech hath thy servant Joab done this thing: and my lord is wise, according to the wisdom of an angel of God, to know all things that are in the earth.matters.<a href="/1_samuel/17-12.htm">1 Samuel 17:12</a> Now David was the son of that Ephrathite of Bethlehemjudah, whose name was Jesse; and he had eight sons: and the man went among men for an old man in the days of Saul.the Lord<a href="/1_samuel/3-19.htm">1 Samuel 3:19</a> And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground.<a href="/1_samuel/10-7.htm">1 Samuel 10:7</a> And let it be, when these signs are come unto thee, that thou do as occasion serve thee; for God is with thee.<a href="/1_samuel/18-12.htm">1 Samuel 18:12-14</a> And Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with him, and was departed from Saul… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_timothy/2-4.htm">Affairs</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-1.htm">Bethlehemite</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-1.htm">Beth-Lehemite</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-16.htm">Cunning</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-11.htm">Jesse</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-8.htm">Matters</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-52.htm">Mighty</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-17.htm">Playing</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-2.htm">Prudent</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-17.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-16.htm">Skilful</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-16.htm">Skillful</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/32-2.htm">Speech</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-52.htm">Valiant</a> <a href="/1_samuel/10-26.htm">Valor</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-52.htm">Valour</a> <a href="/1_samuel/15-18.htm">War</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-2.htm">Young</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_samuel/14-20.htm">Affairs</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-58.htm">Bethlehemite</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-58.htm">Beth-Lehemite</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-22.htm">Cunning</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-19.htm">Jesse</a> <a href="/2_samuel/11-18.htm">Matters</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-51.htm">Mighty</a> <a href="/1_samuel/18-7.htm">Playing</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-3.htm">Prudent</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-19.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/5-18.htm">Skilful</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/5-18.htm">Skillful</a> <a href="/2_samuel/14-20.htm">Speech</a> <a href="/1_samuel/18-17.htm">Valiant</a> <a href="/1_kings/11-28.htm">Valor</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-12.htm">Valour</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-1.htm">War</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-20.htm">Young</a><div class="vheading2">1 Samuel 16</div>1. <a href="/1_samuel/16-1.htm">Samuel sent by God, under pretense of a sacrifice, comes to Bethlehem</a> 6. <a href="/1_samuel/16-6.htm">His human judgment is reproved</a> 11. <a href="/1_samuel/16-11.htm">He anoints David</a> 15. <a href="/1_samuel/16-15.htm">Saul sends for David to quiet his evil spirit</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_samuel/16.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_samuel/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_samuel/16.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>One of the servants answered In the context of <a href="/1_samuel/16.htm">1 Samuel 16</a>, King Saul is troubled by an evil spirit, and his servants suggest finding someone who can play the harp to soothe him. This phrase indicates the proactive role of Saul's servants in seeking a solution. Servants in ancient Israel often held significant responsibilities and could influence decisions, as seen here.I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem Jesse is introduced as the father of David, who is from Bethlehem. Bethlehem, a small town in Judah, is significant as the birthplace of David and later Jesus Christ, fulfilling the prophecy of the Messiah's lineage (<a href="/micah/5-2.htm">Micah 5:2</a>). This connection underscores the importance of David's origins in biblical history.who knows how to play the harp David's skill with the harp is highlighted, showing his musical talent. Music played a vital role in ancient Israelite culture, often used in worship and royal courts. David's ability to play the harp foreshadows his role in composing many of the Psalms, which are central to worship in both Jewish and Christian traditions.He is a mighty man of valor This description of David emphasizes his bravery and strength, qualities that would later be demonstrated in his battle with Goliath (1 Samuel 17). The term "mighty man of valor" is often used in the Old Testament to describe warriors and leaders, indicating David's potential as a future king.a warrior David's reputation as a warrior is established early, even before his famous encounter with Goliath. This characteristic is crucial for his future role as a military leader and king of Israel, who would expand and secure the nation's borders.eloquent and handsome David's eloquence and appearance are noted, suggesting his ability to communicate effectively and his favorable presence. These traits would aid him in gaining favor with both God and people, as seen in his interactions with Saul, Jonathan, and the people of Israel.and the LORD is with him This phrase is the most significant, indicating divine favor and presence with David. It echoes the biblical theme that true success and leadership come from God's presence and blessing. This divine endorsement sets David apart and foreshadows his anointing as king, aligning with the biblical narrative that God chooses leaders based on the heart (<a href="/1_samuel/16-7.htm">1 Samuel 16:7</a>). David's life and reign are often seen as a type of Christ, the ultimate anointed one, who would also be known for God's presence with Him (<a href="/matthew/1-23.htm">Matthew 1:23</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a> The son of Jesse, described as skilled in music, a brave warrior, articulate, handsome, and most importantly, having the LORD with him. This verse marks the beginning of David's introduction to King Saul's court. 2. <a href="/topical/j/jesse.htm">Jesse</a> David's father, from Bethlehem. Jesse is a significant figure as the patriarch of the family from which David, the future king, comes. 3. <a href="/topical/b/bethlehem.htm">Bethlehem</a> A small town in Judah, known as the birthplace of David and later, Jesus Christ. It holds significant historical and theological importance. 4. <a href="/topical/s/saul's_servant.htm">Saul's Servant</a> An unnamed servant of King Saul who recommends David to the king. His observation and recommendation play a crucial role in David's introduction to the royal court. 5. <a href="/topical/k/king_saul.htm">King Saul</a> The first king of Israel, who is troubled by an evil spirit and seeks relief through music, leading to David's introduction to him.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/g/god's_preparation_and_timing.htm">God's Preparation and Timing</a> God prepares individuals for His purposes long before they are called into action. David's skills and character were developed in obscurity before he was brought to Saul's attention. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_character.htm">The Importance of Character</a> David's attributes—bravery, eloquence, and appearance—are noted, but the most crucial aspect is that "the LORD is with him." Our character and relationship with God are paramount. <a href="/topical/u/using_our_gifts_for_god's_glory.htm">Using Our Gifts for God's Glory</a> David's musical talent was used to serve and bring relief to Saul. We should seek to use our God-given talents to serve others and glorify God. <a href="/topical/g/god's_presence_as_the_ultimate_qualification.htm">God's Presence as the Ultimate Qualification</a> While David had many commendable qualities, the presence of the LORD with him was the ultimate qualification for his future role as king.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_samuel_16.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 16</a> <a href="/q/who_was_jesse_in_the_bible.htm">Who was Jesse in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/how_do_you_use_your_talents.htm">How are you using your God-given talents?</a> <a href="/q/why_does_1_chr_16_7-36_echo_ps_105,_96.htm">Why does 1 Chronicles 16:7–36 reuse lines from Psalm 105 and Psalm 96 if David was the original composer? </a> <a href="/q/is_there_proof_david_wrote_psalm_64.htm">What proof exists that David truly authored Psalm 64, given the lack of concrete historical records to confirm its original context?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_samuel/16.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(18) Then answered one of the servants.--The Dean of Canterbury calls attention to the fact that the word in the original here rendered "servants" is not the same as was translated by "servants" in <a href="/context/1_samuel/16-15.htm" title="And Saul's servants said to him, Behold now, an evil spirit from God troubles you.">1Samuel 16:15-17</a>. In each of these passages the Hebrew word rendered "servant," no doubt signifies officers connected with the royal court. Here the different word hann'-?rim lays stress on the royal attendant in question being a young man. Probably, the one spoken of in this place was a contemporary of David, very likely a youth trained with David in Samuel's prophetic school at Naioth in Ramah, and consequently able to speak thus in detail about the young shepherd pupil of the great seer.Cunning in playing.--As a boy, it is certain that David possessed rare gifts of poetry, and, no doubt, of music. It is probable that some of his early Psalms were originally composed while watching his father's sheep among those hills and vales round the village of Bethlehem, where "in later centuries shepherds were still watching over their flocks by night, when the angel host appeared to them to tell them of the birth of a child in Bethlehem."These gifts of poetry and music were further cultivated and developed in the prophets' school of Samuel, and there the young pupil of the seer no doubt quickly acquired among his companions that reputation and skill which induced the "young man" of the court of Saul to tell his afflicted master of the shepherd son of Jesse, famous for his "cunning in playing."And a mighty valiant man, and a man of war.--The description of the Bethlehemite David at a mighty valiant man can well be explained from what is related in <a href="/context/1_samuel/17-34.htm" title="And David said to Saul, Your servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock:">1Samuel 17:34-35</a>, about the young shepherd's prowess in the conflicts with the lions and the bears. A question has, however, been raised respecting the expression "a man of war," as it would seem from the narrative of 1 Samuel 17 that the combat with the giant Philistine was David's first great military exploit. It has, however, been suggested that, in addition to the combat with those wild beasts, which we know in those days frequented the thickets of the Jordan, and were a terror to the Israelitish shepherds, David had most likely been engaged in repelling one or more of the Philistine marauding expeditions so common in those wild days. Bethlehem, we know, was a strong place or garrison of these hereditary foes of Israel. (See <a href="/2_samuel/23-14.htm" title="And David was then in an hold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem.">2Samuel 23:14</a>; <a href="/1_chronicles/11-16.htm" title="And David was then in the hold, and the Philistines' garrison was then at Bethlehem.">1Chronicles 11:16</a>.) . . . <a href="/commentaries/1_samuel/16-18.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>One אֶחָ֨ד (’e·ḥāḏ) Number - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_259.htm">Strong's 259: </a> United, one, first of the servants מֵהַנְּעָרִ֜ים (mê·han·nə·‘ā·rîm) Preposition-m, Article | Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5288.htm">Strong's 5288: </a> A boy, lad, youth, retainer answered, וַיַּעַן֩ (way·ya·‘an) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6030.htm">Strong's 6030: </a> To answer, respond “I have seen רָאִ֜יתִי (rā·’î·ṯî) Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7200.htm">Strong's 7200: </a> To see a son בֵּ֣ן (bên) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1121.htm">Strong's 1121: </a> A son of Jesse לְיִשַׁי֮ (lə·yi·šay) Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3448.htm">Strong's 3448: </a> Jesse -- father of David of Bethlehem הַלַּחְמִי֒ (hal·laḥ·mî) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1022.htm">Strong's 1022: </a> Bethlehemite -- a Beth-lechemite who knows יֹדֵ֣עַ (yō·ḏê·a‘) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3045.htm">Strong's 3045: </a> To know how to play [the harp]. נַ֠גֵּן (nag·gên) Verb - Piel - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5059.htm">Strong's 5059: </a> To touch or play a stringed instrument He is a mighty וְגִבּ֨וֹר (wə·ḡib·bō·wr) Conjunctive waw | Adjective - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1368.htm">Strong's 1368: </a> Powerful, warrior, tyrant man of valor, חַ֜יִל (ḥa·yil) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2428.htm">Strong's 2428: </a> A force, an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength a warrior, וְאִ֧ישׁ (wə·’îš) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_376.htm">Strong's 376: </a> A man as an individual, a male person eloquent וּנְב֥וֹן (ū·nə·ḇō·wn) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Nifal - Participle - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_995.htm">Strong's 995: </a> To separate mentally, understand and handsome, תֹּ֑אַר (tō·’ar) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8389.htm">Strong's 8389: </a> Outline, figure, appearance and the LORD וַיהוָ֖ה (Yah·weh) Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel is with him.” עִמּֽוֹ׃ (‘im·mōw) Preposition | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5973.htm">Strong's 5973: </a> With, equally with <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-18.htm">OT History: 1 Samuel 16:18 Then answered one of the young men (1Sa iSam 1 Sam i sa) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_samuel/16-17.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Samuel 16:17"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Samuel 16:17" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_samuel/16-19.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Samuel 16:19"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Samuel 16:19" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>