1 Samuel 26:16

1 Samuel 26:16 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

This thing you have done is not good. As surely as the LORD lives, all of you deserve to die, since you did not protect your lord, the LORD’s anointed. Now look around. Where are the king’s spear and water jug that were by his head?”

King James Version KJV

This thing is not good that thou hast done. As the LORD liveth, ye are worthy to die, because ye have not kept your master, the LORD’s anointed. And now see where the king’s spear is, and the cruse of water that was at his bolster.

American Standard Version ASV

This thing is not good that thou hast done. As Jehovah liveth, ye are worthy to die, because ye have not kept watch over your lord, Jehovah’s anointed. And now see where the king’s spear is, and the cruse of water that was at his head.

Bible in Basic English BBE

What you have done is not good. By the living Lord, death is the right fate for you, because you have not kept watch over your lord, the man on whom the Lord has put the holy oil. Now see, where is the king's spear, and the vessel of water which was by his head?

Free Bible Version FBV

You haven't done well at all. As the Lord lives, you all deserve to die, because you did not protect your master, the Lord's anointed. Take a look around. Where are the king's spear and water jug that were beside his head?”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

This is not well done of thee: as the Lord liueth, ye are worthy to dye, because ye haue not kept your master the Lordes Anointed: and now see where the Kings speare is, and the pot of water that was at his head.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

Not good is this thing which thou hast done; Jehovah liveth, but ye [are] sons of death, in that ye have not watched over your lord, over the anointed of Jehovah; and now, see where the king's spear [is], and the cruse of water which [is] at his bolster.'

World English Bible WEB

This thing isn’t good that you have done. As the LORD lives, you are worthy to die, because you have not kept watch over your lord, the LORD’s anointed. Now see where the king’s spear is, and the jar of water that was at his head.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

This thing is not good that thou hast done. As the LORD liveth, ye are worthy to die, because ye have not kept your master the LORD'S anointed. And now see where the king's spear is , and the cruse of water that was at his bolster.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

This thing is not good, that thou hast done: as the Lord liveth, you are the sons of death, who have not kept your master, the Lord’s anointed. And now where is the king’s spear, and the cup of water, which was at his head?

Translation for Translators T4T

You have done a very poor job of guarding Saul. So just as surely as Yahweh lives, you and your men should be executed! You have not guarded your master whom Yahweh appointed to be the king. Where are the king’s spear and the water jug that were close to his head?”

Plain English Version PEV

You are a boss soldier for nothing. God should kill you, and your soldiers too. You mob don’t look after the big boss, the one God picked. Look there. Where’s the big boss’s spear? Where’s his billycan? I’ve got those 2 things here.”

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Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 26:16

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

1 Samuel 26:16 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB לֹא ט֞וֹב הַ/דָּבָ֣ר הַ/זֶּה֮ אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשִׂיתָ֒ חַי יְהוָ֗ה כִּ֤י בְנֵי מָ֨וֶת֙ אַתֶּ֔ם אֲשֶׁ֧ר לֹֽא שְׁמַרְתֶּ֛ם עַל אֲדֹנֵי/כֶ֖ם עַל מְשִׁ֣יחַ יְהוָ֑ה וְ/עַתָּ֣ה רְאֵ֗ה אֵֽי חֲנִ֥ית הַ/מֶּ֛לֶךְ וְ/אֶת צַפַּ֥חַת הַ/מַּ֖יִם אֲשֶׁ֥ר מראשת/ו מְרַאֲשֹׁתָֽי/ו

לֹא lôʼ H3808 not Part

ט֞וֹב ṭôwb H2896 pleasant Adj

הַ/דָּבָ֣ר dâbâr H1697 Chronicles Art | N-ms

הַ/זֶּה֮ zeh H2088 this Art | Pron

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

עָשִׂיתָ֒ ʻâsâh H6213 to make V-Qal-Perf-2ms

חַי chay H2416 alive Adj

יְהוָ֗ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

כִּ֤י kîy H3588 for Conj

בְנֵי bên H1121 son N-mp

מָ֨וֶת֙ mâveth H4194 death N-ms

אַתֶּ֔ם ʼattâh H859 you(m.s.) Pron

אֲשֶׁ֧ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 not Part

שְׁמַרְתֶּ֛ם shâmar H8104 to keep V-Qal-Perf-2mp

עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep

אֲדֹנֵי/כֶ֖ם ʼâdôwn H113 lord N-mp | Suff

עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep

מְשִׁ֣יחַ mâshîyach H4899 anointed N-ms

יְהוָ֑ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

וְ/עַתָּ֣ה ʻattâh H6258 now Conj | Adv

רְאֵ֗ה râʼâh H7200 Provider V-Qal-Impv-2ms

אֵֽי ʼay H335 where? Part

חֲנִ֥ית chănîyth H2595 spear N-fs

הַ/מֶּ֛לֶךְ melek H4428 King's Art | N-ms

וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. Conj | DirObjM

צַפַּ֥חַת tsappachath H6835 jar N-fs

הַ/מַּ֖יִם mayim H4325 Water (Gate) Art | N-mp

אֲשֶׁ֥ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

מראשת/ו mᵉraʼăshâh H4763 head N-fp | Suff

מְרַאֲשֹׁתָֽי/ו mᵉraʼăshâh H4763 head N-fp | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 26:16

לֹא lôʼ H3808 "not" Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

ט֞וֹב ṭôwb H2896 "pleasant" Adj

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means good or welfare, describing something that is beneficial or pleasing, like a good deed or a happy time. It is used in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms. This word is often translated as 'good' or 'beautiful'.

Definition: adj 1) good, pleasant, agreeable 1a) pleasant, agreeable (to the senses) 1b) pleasant (to the higher nature) 1c) good, excellent (of its kind) 1d) good, rich, valuable in estimation 1e) good, appropriate, becoming 1f) better (comparative) 1g) glad, happy, prosperous (of man's sensuous nature) 1h) good understanding (of man's intellectual nature) 1i) good, kind, benign 1j) good, right (ethical) Aramaic equivalent: tav (טָב "fine" H2869)

Usage: Occurs in 521 OT verses. KJV: beautiful, best, better, bountiful, cheerful, at ease, [idiom] fair (word), (be in) favour, fine, glad, good (deed, -lier, -liest, -ly, -ness, -s), graciously, joyful, kindly, kindness, liketh (best), loving, merry, [idiom] most, pleasant, [phrase] pleaseth, pleasure, precious, prosperity, ready, sweet, wealth, welfare, (be) well(-favoured). See also: Genesis 1:4; Ruth 2:22; 2 Chronicles 3:8.

הַ/דָּבָ֣ר dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" Art | N-ms

A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.

Definition: This name means word, speaking

Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.

הַ/זֶּה֮ zeh H2088 "this" Art | Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning this or that, used to point out a specific person or thing. It appears in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms, to indicate something specific. The KJV translates it as he, here, or it.

Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, another, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how

Usage: Occurs in 1061 OT verses. KJV: he, [idiom] hence, [idiom] here, it(-self), [idiom] now, [idiom] of him, the one...the other, [idiom] than the other, ([idiom] out of) the (self) same, such (a one) that, these, this (hath, man), on this side...on that side, [idiom] thus, very, which. Compare H2063 (זֹאת), H2090 (זֹה), H2097 (זוֹ), H2098 (זוּ). See also: Genesis 5:1; Exodus 10:17; Numbers 14:16.

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

עָשִׂיתָ֒ ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" V-Qal-Perf-2ms

This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.

Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made

Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.

חַי chay H2416 "alive" Adj

In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.

Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)

Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.

יְהוָ֗ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

כִּ֤י kîy H3588 "for" Conj

A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.

Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.

בְנֵי bên H1121 "son" N-mp

In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.

Definition: : child/son

Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.

מָ֨וֶת֙ mâveth H4194 "death" N-ms

In the Bible, this word refers to death, whether natural or violent, and is used in books like Genesis and Isaiah. It can also mean the place of the dead, or a state of ruin. This concept is seen in the story of Moses, where death is a punishment for disobedience.

Definition: 1) death, dying, Death (personified), realm of the dead 1a) death 1b) death by violence (as a penalty) 1c) state of death, place of death Aramaic equivalent: mot (מוֹת "death" H4193)

Usage: Occurs in 153 OT verses. KJV: (be) dead(-ly), death, die(-d). See also: Genesis 21:16; Job 38:17; Psalms 6:6.

אַתֶּ֔ם ʼattâh H859 "you(m.s.)" Pron

You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.

Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)

Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.

אֲשֶׁ֧ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 "not" Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

שְׁמַרְתֶּ֛ם shâmar H8104 "to keep" V-Qal-Perf-2mp

To keep or obey means to protect, attend to, or guard something, like keeping a promise or watching over someone, as seen in the commands to observe the Sabbath.

Definition: : obey/observe 1) to keep, guard, observe, give heed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to keep, have charge of 1a2) to keep, guard, keep watch and ward, protect, save life 1a2a) watch, watchman (participle) 1a3) to watch for, wait for 1a4) to watch, observe 1a5) to keep, retain, treasure up (in memory) 1a6) to keep (within bounds), restrain 1a7) to observe, celebrate, keep (sabbath or covenant or commands), perform (vow) 1a8) to keep, preserve, protect 1a9) to keep, reserve 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be on one's guard, take heed, take care, beware 1b2) to keep oneself, refrain, abstain 1b3) to be kept, be guarded 1c) (Piel) to keep, pay heed 1d) (Hithpael) to keep oneself from

Usage: Occurs in 440 OT verses. KJV: beward, be circumspect, take heed (to self), keep(-er, self), mark, look narrowly, observe, preserve, regard, reserve, save (self), sure, (that lay) wait (for), watch(-man). See also: Genesis 2:15; Deuteronomy 11:1; 1 Kings 14:8.

עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)

Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.

אֲדֹנֵי/כֶ֖ם ʼâdôwn H113 "lord" N-mp | Suff

The Hebrew word ʼâdôwn refers to a lord or master, and can be used to describe human leaders or God. It emphasizes the person's power and control over others or things, and is often translated as lord or master.

Definition: 1) firm, strong, lord, master 1a) lord, master 1a1) reference to men 1a1a) superintendent of household, of affairs 1a1b) master 1a1c) king 1a2) reference to God 1a2a) the Lord God 1a2b) Lord of the whole earth 1b) lords, kings 1b1) reference to men 1b1a) proprietor of hill of Samaria 1b1b) master 1b1c) husband 1b1d) prophet 1b1e) governor 1b1f) prince 1b1g) king 1b2) reference to God 1b2a) Lord of lords (probably = "thy husband, Yahweh") 1c) my lord, my master 1c1) reference to men 1c1a) master 1c1b) husband 1c1c) prophet 1c1d) prince 1c1e) king 1c1f) father 1c1g) Moses 1c1h) priest 1c1i) theophanic angel 1c1j) captain 1c1k) general recognition of superiority 1c2) reference to God 1c2a) my Lord, my Lord and my God 1c2b) Adonai (parallel with Yahweh)

Usage: Occurs in 281 OT verses. KJV: lord, master, owner. Compare also names beginning with 'Adoni-'. See also: Genesis 18:3; 1 Samuel 25:30; 2 Kings 6:5.

עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

מְשִׁ֣יחַ mâshîyach H4899 "anointed" N-ms

Messiah means anointed one, referring to a king, priest, or the Messiah in the Bible. It describes someone set apart for a special purpose. The term is used in the Old Testament to describe kings and priests, and in the New Testament to describe Jesus.

Definition: 1) anointed, anointed one 1a) of the Messiah, Messianic prince 1b) of the king of Israel 1c) of the high priest of Israel 1d) of Cyrus 1e) of the patriarchs as anointed kings

Usage: Occurs in 38 OT verses. KJV: anointed, Messiah. See also: Leviticus 4:3; 2 Samuel 22:51; Psalms 2:2.

יְהוָ֑ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

וְ/עַתָּ֣ה ʻattâh H6258 "now" Conj | Adv

This word means now or at this time, like in Exodus when God says now is the time to act. It can also be used to connect ideas or show a change in time, as seen in the book of Isaiah.

Definition: 1) now 1a) now 1b) in phrases

Usage: Occurs in 422 OT verses. KJV: henceforth, now, straightway, this time, whereas. See also: Genesis 3:22; Joshua 24:23; 2 Samuel 24:13.

רְאֵ֗ה râʼâh H7200 "Provider" V-Qal-Impv-2ms

The Hebrew word for provider means to see or look after, and is used to describe God's care for his people. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible, including in Genesis and other books.

Definition: (Lord will) Provide, cause to be seen. This name means to see, look at, inspect, look after

Usage: Occurs in 1206 OT verses. KJV: advise self, appear, approve, behold, [idiom] certainly, consider, discern, (make to) enjoy, have experience, gaze, take heed, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] joyfully, lo, look (on, one another, one on another, one upon another, out, up, upon), mark, meet, [idiom] be near, perceive, present, provide, regard, (have) respect, (fore-, cause to, let) see(-r, -m, one another), shew (self), [idiom] sight of others, (e-) spy, stare, [idiom] surely, [idiom] think, view, visions. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 41:41; Exodus 33:13.

אֵֽי ʼay H335 "where?" Part

The Hebrew word for where or how, used to ask questions about location or method, as seen in various Bible translations, including how, what, or which way.

Definition: 1) whereto ?, whence? 2) which?, how? (in prefix with other adverb)

Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: how, what, whence, where, whether, which (way). See also: Genesis 3:9; Job 2:2; Proverbs 31:4.

חֲנִ֥ית chănîyth H2595 "spear" N-fs

This word refers to a spear or lance used for thrusting, like a tent pole. It appears in the stories of Saul and Jonathan, where they use spears in battle. The word is also used to describe a shaft or spear-head.

Definition: 1) spear 1a) spear 1a1) shaft of a spear 1a2) spear-head

Usage: Occurs in 40 OT verses. KJV: javelin, spear. See also: 1 Samuel 13:19; 2 Samuel 21:19; Psalms 35:3.

הַ/מֶּ֛לֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" Art | N-ms

This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." Conj | DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

צַפַּ֥חַת tsappachath H6835 "jar" N-fs

This word refers to a flat jar or jug used for liquids, like a cruse, as mentioned in 1 Kings 17:12.

Definition: jar, jug (for liquids)

Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: cruse. See also: 1 Samuel 26:11; 1 Kings 17:12; 1 Kings 19:6.

הַ/מַּ֖יִם mayim H4325 "Water (Gate)" Art | N-mp

This word means water, referring to a liquid or a source of refreshment. It appears in the Bible as a literal and figurative term, including references to wasting or urine. The word is used in various contexts, such as in Genesis and Leviticus.

Definition: This name means water, refreshment

Usage: Occurs in 525 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] piss, wasting, water(-ing, (-course, -flood, -spring)). See also: Genesis 1:2; Leviticus 14:9; Joshua 18:15.

אֲשֶׁ֥ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

מראשת/ו mᵉraʼăshâh H4763 "head" N-fp | Suff

The Hebrew word for head or headrest, used to describe a place of rest or a position of authority, like a pillow or bolster. It appears in the Bible as a symbol of comfort and support.

Definition: 1) place at the head, dominion, head place adv 2) at head place

Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: bolster, head, pillow. Compare H4772 (מַרְגְלָה). See also: Genesis 28:11; 1 Samuel 26:7; 1 Kings 19:6.

מְרַאֲשֹׁתָֽי/ו mᵉraʼăshâh H4763 "head" N-fp | Suff

The Hebrew word for head or headrest, used to describe a place of rest or a position of authority, like a pillow or bolster. It appears in the Bible as a symbol of comfort and support.

Definition: 1) place at the head, dominion, head place adv 2) at head place

Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: bolster, head, pillow. Compare H4772 (מַרְגְלָה). See also: Genesis 28:11; 1 Samuel 26:7; 1 Kings 19:6.

Study Notes — 1 Samuel 26:16

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
1 Samuel 26:16 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 26:16
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 26:16
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 26:16
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 26:16
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 26:16
Sermons on 1 Samuel 26:16

Context — David Reproves Abner

14And David shouted to the troops and to Abner son of Ner, “Will you not answer me, Abner?” “Who are you who calls to the king?” Abner replied. 15So David said to Abner, “You are a man, aren’t you? And who in Israel is your equal? Why then did you not protect your lord the king when one of the people came to destroy him?

16This thing you have done is not good. As surely as the LORD lives, all of you deserve to die, since you did not protect your lord, the LORD’s anointed. Now look around. Where are the king’s spear and water jug that were by his head?”

17Then Saul recognized David’s voice and asked, “Is that your voice, David my son?” “It is my voice, my lord and king,” David said. 18And he continued, “Why is my lord pursuing his servant? What have I done? What evil is in my hand?

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Psalms 79:11	May the groans of the captives reach You; by the strength of Your arm preserve those condemned to death.
2	2 Samuel 12:5	David burned with anger against the man and said to Nathan: “As surely as the LORD lives, the man who did this deserves to die!
3	1 Samuel 26:9	But David said to Abishai, “Do not destroy him, for who can lift a hand against the LORD’s anointed and be guiltless?”
4	1 Samuel 26:11	But the LORD forbid that I should stretch out my hand against the LORD’s anointed. Instead, take the spear and water jug by his head, and let us go.”
5	2 Samuel 19:28	For all the house of my grandfather deserves death from my lord the king, yet you have set your servant among those who eat at your table. What further right, then, do I have to keep appealing to the king?”
6	Ephesians 2:3	All of us also lived among them at one time, fulfilling the cravings of our flesh and indulging its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature children of wrath.
7	Psalms 102:20	to hear a prisoner’s groaning, to release those condemned to death,
8	1 Samuel 20:31	For as long as the son of Jesse lives on this earth, neither you nor your kingship shall be established. Now send for him and bring him to me, for he must surely die!”
9	1 Samuel 24:6	So he said to his men, “The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD’s anointed. May I never lift my hand against him, since he is the LORD’s anointed.”

1 Samuel 26:16 Summary

In 1 Samuel 26:16, David is scolding Saul's men for not protecting their king, who is God's anointed. David is saying that they should have defended Saul, even if it meant giving their own lives, as this is a fundamental principle of loyalty and duty, as seen in John 15:13. This verse shows that David respects God's authority, even when the person in authority is not acting rightly, as also seen in Acts 23:1-5. By trusting in God's sovereignty, we can learn to respect and honor those in authority over us, even when it's difficult, as seen in Hebrews 13:17.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does David say that Saul's men deserve to die?

David says this because they failed to protect their king, who was the Lord's anointed, as seen in 1 Samuel 26:16. This is a serious offense, as the king's life is entrusted to God's care, as mentioned in Psalm 105:15.

What is the significance of the king's spear and water jug in this verse?

The king's spear and water jug, mentioned in 1 Samuel 26:16, represent the king's personal belongings and symbols of his authority, which David could have taken but chose not to, demonstrating his respect for God's anointed, as also seen in 1 Samuel 24:6.

Is David being hypocritical by scolding Abner and the troops for not protecting Saul?

No, David is not being hypocritical, as he is holding them accountable for their failure to protect the king, while also showing restraint himself, as seen in 1 Samuel 26:16, and earlier in 1 Samuel 24:1-7, where he spared Saul's life.

What does this verse reveal about David's character?

This verse, 1 Samuel 26:16, reveals that David is a man of integrity, who respects God's anointed, even when that person is pursuing him, as also seen in Psalm 138:8, and is willing to hold others accountable for their actions, as seen in Proverbs 27:5-6.

Reflection Questions

What would I have done if I were in David's shoes, and how can I apply his example of respect and restraint to my own life?
How can I balance the need to protect myself with the need to respect those in authority over me, as seen in Romans 13:1-7?
What are some ways that I can demonstrate my respect for God's anointed leaders in my own life, as seen in 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13?
How can I trust God to vindicate me, even when I am being pursued or mistreated, as David did, and as seen in Psalm 37:1-7?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 26:16

This thing [is] not good that thou hast done,.... Yea, it was very bad, a great fault, and very blameworthy, if he had neglected to set a watch over the king, whose business it was as a general; the

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 26:16

This thing is not good that thou hast done. As the LORD liveth, ye are worthy to die, because ye have not kept your master, the LORD's anointed.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 26:16

This thing is not good, i.e. it is very bad, a great crime. A figure called meiosis, as 19:2.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 26:16

1 Samuel 26:16 This thing [is] not good that thou hast done. [As] the LORD liveth, ye [are] worthy to die, because ye have not kept your master, the LORD’ S anointed. And now see where the king’ s spear [is], and the cruse of water that [was] at his bolster.Ver. 16. Ye are worthy to die,] sc., Ex iure Gentium, because ye keep no better a watch. Epaminondas walking the round, slew a watchman whom he found sleeping; and defended the fact by saying, Talem reliqui, qualem inveni, I left him no otherwise than I found him. And now see where the king’ s spear is.] Ecce signum, lo here an ocular demonstration of thy blameworthiness, but of mine integrity and innocence.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 26:16

16. worthy to die] Lit. sons of death. Cp. 1 Samuel 20:31.

Sermons on 1 Samuel 26:16

	Sermon	Description
	Understanding Spiritual Authority (Part 1): What Is Aaron That You Murmur Against Him? by Carter Conlon	In this sermon, the preacher begins by asking for an anointing of the Holy Spirit to convey the truth clearly and concisely. He prays for the grace for the church to live out this
	Conditions of the World Today by Charles E. Fuller	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the desires of the flesh and the mind, highlighting that even desires of the mind can be unregenerated and selfish. He emphasizes that those w
	Principles of Godly Music—sing a New Song by Dean Taylor	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the power of music and its ability to evoke emotions and bring about change. He uses the example of a man in Berlin who played a song that h
	Freedom of Spirit - Part 6 by Norman Grubb	This sermon delves into the concept of self and Satan's influence, highlighting the internal struggle between our true identity in Christ and the deceptive nature of Satan. It emph
	Quit Running From the Doctrine of Hell by Tim Conway	This sermon emphasizes the reality of hell and the wrath of God, highlighting that all mankind, regardless of background, is in trouble by nature and destined for wrath. It warns o
	Passive Father Eli, Faithful Father Abraham by Aaron Hurst	In this sermon, the preacher addresses fathers and their responsibilities in the family. He emphasizes the importance of fathers being actively involved in their children's lives a
	The Adamic Covenant by A.W. Pink	A.W. Pink emphasizes the significance of the Adamic Covenant, explaining that Adam served as the federal head and representative of all humanity. His actions in Eden, particularly