1 Samuel 31:4

1 Samuel 31:4 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Then Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword and run it through me, or these uncircumcised men will come and run me through and torture me!” But his armor-bearer was terrified and refused to do it. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it.

King James Version KJV

Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it.

American Standard Version ASV

Then said Saul to his armorbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armorbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took his sword, and fell upon it.

Bible in Basic English BBE

Then Saul said to the servant who had the care of his arms, Take out your sword and put it through me, before these men without circumcision come and make sport of me. But his servant, full of fear, would not do so. Then Saul took out his sword, and falling on it, put an end to himself.

Free Bible Version FBV

Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Take your sword and kill me, or these heathen men will come and kill and torture me!” But the armor-bearer didn't want to do it because he was too afraid. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Then saide Saul vnto his armour bearer, Drawe out thy sworde, and thrust mee through therewith, lest the vncircumcised come and thrust me through and mocke me: but his armour bearer would not, for hee was sore afraid. Therefore Saul tooke a sworde and fell vpon it.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

and Saul saith to the bearer of his weapons, 'Draw thy sword, and pierce me with it, lest they come — these uncircumcised — and have pierced me, and rolled themselves on me;' and the bearer of his weapons hath not been willing, for he is greatly afraid, and Saul taketh the sword, and falleth upon it.

World English Bible WEB

Then Saul said to his armor bearer, “Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through and abuse me!” But his armor bearer would not, for he was terrified. Therefore Saul took his sword and fell on it.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Then said Saul to his armor-bearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through with it; lest these uncircumcised should come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armor-bearer would not; for he was exceedingly afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

Then Saul said to his armourbearer: Draw thy sword, and kill me: lest these uncircumcised come, and slay me, and mock at me. And his armourbearer would not: for he was struck with exceeding great fear. Then Saul took his sword, and fell upon it.

Translation for Translators T4T

Saul said to the man who was carrying his weapons, “Take out your sword and kill me with it, in order that these heathen Philistines will not be able to thrust their swords into me and make fun of me while I am dying.” But the man who was carrying Saul’s weapons was terrified, and refused to do that. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it. The sword pierced his body and he died.

Plain English Version PEV

Saul talked to one of the soldiers there, the one that carried his shield for him. He said, “Get your long knife and stab me. I don’t want that mob to kill me dead. They don’t know God. They might make fun of me as they kill me.” The soldier was frightened and did not want to stab him. So Saul got the knife and stabbed himself in his belly and killed himself.

Study Highlights

Key words in the translations above are automatically highlighted. Names of God and Jesus are marked in purple, the Holy Spirit in orange, divine action verbs are underlined, and repeated key words are highlighted in yellow.

Enable Study Highlights

God & Jesus

Holy Spirit

Divine Actions

Repeated Words

Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 31:4

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 31:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר שָׁאוּל֩ לְ/נֹשֵׂ֨א כֵלָ֜י/ו שְׁלֹ֥ף חַרְבְּ/ךָ֣ וְ/דָקְרֵ֣/נִי בָ֗/הּ פֶּן יָ֠בוֹאוּ הָ/עֲרֵלִ֨ים הָ/אֵ֤לֶּה וּ/דְקָרֻ֨/נִי֙ וְ/הִתְעַלְּלוּ בִ֔/י וְ/לֹ֤א אָבָה֙ נֹשֵׂ֣א כֵלָ֔י/ו כִּ֥י יָרֵ֖א מְאֹ֑ד וַ/יִּקַּ֤ח שָׁאוּל֙ אֶת הַ/חֶ֔רֶב וַ/יִּפֹּ֖ל עָלֶֽי/הָ

וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

שָׁאוּל֩ Shâʼûwl H7586 Shaul N-proper

לְ/נֹשֵׂ֨א nâsâʼ H5375 to lift Prep | V-Qal

כֵלָ֜י/ו kᵉlîy H3627 article/utensil N-mp | Suff

שְׁלֹ֥ף shâlaph H8025 to draw V-Qal-Impv-2ms

חַרְבְּ/ךָ֣ chereb H2719 sword N-fs | Suff

וְ/דָקְרֵ֣/נִי dâqar H1856 to pierce Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2ms | Suff

בָ֗/הּ Prep | Suff

פֶּן pên H6435 lest Conj

יָ֠בוֹאוּ bôwʼ H935 Lebo V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

הָ/עֲרֵלִ֨ים ʻârêl H6189 uncircumcised Art | Adj

הָ/אֵ֤לֶּה ʼêl-leh H428 these Art | Pron

וּ/דְקָרֻ֨/נִי֙ dâqar H1856 to pierce Conj | V-Qal-Perf-3cp | Suff

וְ/הִתְעַלְּלוּ ʻâlal H5953 to abuse Conj | V-Hithpael-Perf-3cp

בִ֔/י Prep | Suff

וְ/לֹ֤א lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

אָבָה֙ ʼâbâh H14 be willing V-Qal-Perf-3ms

נֹשֵׂ֣א nâsâʼ H5375 to lift V-Qal

כֵלָ֔י/ו kᵉlîy H3627 article/utensil N-mp | Suff

כִּ֥י kîy H3588 for Conj

יָרֵ֖א yârêʼ H3372 to fear V-Qal-Perf-3ms

מְאֹ֑ד mᵉʼôd H3966 much Adv

וַ/יִּקַּ֤ח lâqach H3947 to take Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

שָׁאוּל֙ Shâʼûwl H7586 Shaul N-proper

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

הַ/חֶ֔רֶב chereb H2719 sword Art | N-fs

וַ/יִּפֹּ֖ל nâphal H5307 to fall Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

עָלֶֽי/הָ ʻal H5921 upon Prep | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.

Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.

Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 31:4

וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

שָׁאוּל֩ Shâʼûwl H7586 "Shaul" N-proper

Shaul is a personal name meaning desired, given to several individuals in the Bible, including a Benjamite who became the first king of Israel and a Levite living during the time of the Divided Monarchy. He is mentioned in 1 Chronicles and 1 Samuel.

Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ch.6.24; son of: Uzziah (H5818H); father of: Elkanah (H0511I); also called Joel at 1Ch.6.36; Also named: yo.el (יוֹאֵל "Joel" H3100U) § Saul or Shaul = "desired" 1) a Benjamite, son of Kish, and the 1st king of Israel 2) an early king of Edom and a successor of Samlah 3) a son of Simeon 4) a Levite, son of Uzziah

Usage: Occurs in 335 OT verses. KJV: Saul, Shaul. See also: Genesis 36:37; 1 Samuel 16:22; 1 Samuel 24:5.

לְ/נֹשֵׂ֨א nâsâʼ H5375 "to lift" Prep | V-Qal

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to lift or raise something, and it's used in many ways, like lifting a burden or raising someone's status. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah, often talking about God lifting people up. It's about supporting or carrying something or someone.

Definition: : raise/take_up 1) to lift, bear up, carry, take 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lift, lift up 1a2) to bear, carry, support, sustain, endure 1a3) to take, take away, carry off, forgive 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be lifted up, be exalted 1b2) to lift oneself up, rise up 1b3) to be borne, be carried 1b4) to be taken away, be carried off, be swept away 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to lift up, exalt, support, aid, assist 1c2) to desire, long (fig.) 1c3) to carry, bear continuously 1c4) to take, take away 1d) (Hithpael) to lift oneself up, exalt oneself 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to cause one to bear (iniquity) 1e2) to cause to bring, have brought

Usage: Occurs in 609 OT verses. KJV: accept, advance, arise, (able to, (armor), suffer to) bear(-er, up), bring (forth), burn, carry (away), cast, contain, desire, ease, exact, exalt (self), extol, fetch, forgive, furnish, further, give, go on, help, high, hold up, honorable ([phrase] man), lade, lay, lift (self) up, lofty, marry, magnify, [idiom] needs, obtain, pardon, raise (up), receive, regard, respect, set (up), spare, stir up, [phrase] swear, take (away, up), [idiom] utterly, wear, yield. See also: Genesis 4:13; Numbers 4:2; 1 Samuel 14:3.

כֵלָ֜י/ו kᵉlîy H3627 "article/utensil" N-mp | Suff

This Hebrew word refers to any object or tool, like a utensil or a piece of furniture. It is used to describe a wide range of items, from musical instruments to weapons. It emphasizes the object's purpose or function.

Definition: 1) article, vessel, implement, utensil 1a) article, object (general) 1b) utensil, implement, apparatus, vessel 1b1) implement (of hunting or war) 1b2) implement (of music) 1b3) implement, tool (of labour) 1b4) equipment, yoke (of oxen) 1b5) utensils, furniture 1c) vessel, receptacle (general) 1d) vessels (boats) of paper-reed

Usage: Occurs in 276 OT verses. KJV: armour(-bearer), artillery, bag, carriage, [phrase] furnish, furniture, instrument, jewel, that is made of, [idiom] one from another, that which pertaineth, pot, [phrase] psaltery, sack, stuff, thing, tool, vessel, ware, weapon, [phrase] whatsoever. See also: Genesis 24:53; 1 Samuel 14:13; Ezra 8:26.

שְׁלֹ֥ף shâlaph H8025 "to draw" V-Qal-Impv-2ms

This Hebrew verb means to pull or draw something out, like drawing a plant out of the ground. It is used in various contexts, including pulling out a sword or growing up. In the Bible, it appears in descriptions of everyday life and warfare.

Definition: 1) to draw out or off, take off 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to draw out 1a2) to draw off 1a3) to shoot up, draw out (of blade of grass on roof)

Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: draw (off), grow up, pluck off. See also: Numbers 22:23; Judges 20:46; Psalms 129:6.

חַרְבְּ/ךָ֣ chereb H2719 "sword" N-fs | Suff

A sword or cutting instrument is what this Hebrew word refers to, including knives and tools for cutting stone. It is used in the Bible to describe weapons and sharp objects.

Definition: 1) sword, knife 1a) sword 1b) knife 1c) tools for cutting stone

Usage: Occurs in 372 OT verses. KJV: axe, dagger, knife, mattock, sword, tool. See also: Genesis 3:24; 2 Samuel 2:16; Psalms 7:13.

וְ/דָקְרֵ֣/נִי dâqar H1856 "to pierce" Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2ms | Suff

To pierce or stab, as in Psalm 109:16, and can also mean to starve or revile, like in Psalm 57:4.

Definition: 1) to pierce, thrust through, pierce through 1a) (Qal) to pierce, run through 1b) (Niphal) to be pierced through 1c) (Pual) pierced, riddled (participle)

Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: pierce, strike (thrust) through, wound. See also: Numbers 25:8; Jeremiah 37:10; Isaiah 13:15.

בָ֗/הּ "" Prep | Suff

פֶּן pên H6435 "lest" Conj

This word is used to express caution or warning, similar to saying 'lest' or 'beware that'. It is often used in the Bible to advise against certain actions or to warn of potential consequences.

Definition: conj 1) lest, not, beware lest adv 2) lest

Usage: Occurs in 125 OT verses. KJV: (lest) (peradventure), that...not. See also: Genesis 3:3; Judges 14:15; Psalms 2:12.

יָ֠בוֹאוּ bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

הָ/עֲרֵלִ֨ים ʻârêl H6189 "uncircumcised" Art | Adj

This Hebrew word describes someone who is uncircumcised, meaning they still have their foreskin. It is used to distinguish between Jews and non-Jews, as seen in Acts 7.

Definition: uncircumcised, having foreskin

Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: uncircumcised (person). See also: Genesis 17:14; Jeremiah 6:10; Isaiah 52:1.

הָ/אֵ֤לֶּה ʼêl-leh H428 "these" Art | Pron

This Hebrew word is used to point out specific people or things, like saying 'these' or 'those'. It appears in the book of Genesis, where God says 'let there be light' and separates the light from the darkness.

Definition: 1) these 1a) used before antecedent 1b) used following antecedent Aramaic equivalent: el.leh (אֵלֶּה "these" H0429)

Usage: Occurs in 697 OT verses. KJV: an-(the) other; one sort, so, some, such, them, these (same), they, this, those, thus, which, who(-m). See also: Genesis 2:4; Exodus 35:1; Deuteronomy 1:35.

וּ/דְקָרֻ֨/נִי֙ dâqar H1856 "to pierce" Conj | V-Qal-Perf-3cp | Suff

To pierce or stab, as in Psalm 109:16, and can also mean to starve or revile, like in Psalm 57:4.

Definition: 1) to pierce, thrust through, pierce through 1a) (Qal) to pierce, run through 1b) (Niphal) to be pierced through 1c) (Pual) pierced, riddled (participle)

Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: pierce, strike (thrust) through, wound. See also: Numbers 25:8; Jeremiah 37:10; Isaiah 13:15.

וְ/הִתְעַלְּלוּ ʻâlal H5953 "to abuse" Conj | V-Hithpael-Perf-3cp

To thrust or push something is what this Hebrew word means, and it can also imply treating someone poorly. It is used in various ways in the Bible, including to describe abuse or mocking. The KJV translates it as abuse or mock.

Definition: 1) to act severely, deal with severely, make a fool of someone 1a) (Poel) to act severely 1b) (Poal) to be severely dealt with 1c) (Hithpael) to busy oneself, divert oneself, deal wantonly, deal ruthlessly, abuse (by thrusting through) 1d) (Hithpoel) to practise practices, thrust forth (in wickedness)

Usage: Occurs in 18 OT verses. KJV: abuse, affect, [idiom] child, defile, do, glean, mock, practise, thoroughly, work (wonderfully). See also: Exodus 10:2; Job 16:15; Psalms 141:4.

בִ֔/י "" Prep | Suff

וְ/לֹ֤א lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | 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.

אָבָה֙ ʼâbâh H14 "be willing" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

To be willing or consent is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which involves being acquiescent or accepting. It is used in various contexts, including being willing to obey or follow.

Definition: 1) to be willing, consent 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be willing 1a2) to consent, yield to, accept 1a3) to desire

Usage: Occurs in 52 OT verses. KJV: consent, rest content will, be willing. See also: Genesis 24:5; 2 Samuel 14:29; Psalms 81:12.

נֹשֵׂ֣א nâsâʼ H5375 "to lift" V-Qal

כֵלָ֔י/ו kᵉlîy H3627 "article/utensil" N-mp | Suff

כִּ֥י 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.

יָרֵ֖א yârêʼ H3372 "to fear" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to fear or revere, and is used to describe being afraid or standing in awe of something, like God's power. It appears in the Bible to convey a sense of respect or reverence. In the KJV, it's translated as 'affright' or 'reverence'.

Definition: : frightening(DANGER) 1) to fear, revere, be afraid 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to fear, be afraid 1a2) to stand in awe of, be awed 1a3) to fear, reverence, honour, respect 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be fearful, be dreadful, be feared 1b2) to cause astonishment and awe, be held in awe 1b3) to inspire reverence or godly fear or awe 1c) (Piel) to make afraid, terrify 2) (TWOT) to shoot, pour

Usage: Occurs in 318 OT verses. KJV: affright, be (make) afraid, dread(-ful), (put in) fear(-ful, -fully, -ing), (be had in) reverence(-end), [idiom] see, terrible (act, -ness, thing). See also: Genesis 3:10; 1 Samuel 12:18; Psalms 3:7.

מְאֹ֑ד mᵉʼôd H3966 "much" Adv

Meod means 'much' or 'very' and is used to emphasize something. It can mean 'exceedingly' or 'greatly' and is often used to show strong feelings or actions.

Definition: adv 1) exceedingly, much subst 2) might, force, abundance n m 3) muchness, force, abundance, exceedingly 3a) force, might 3b) exceedingly, greatly, very (idioms showing magnitude or degree) 3b1) exceedingly 3b2) up to abundance, to a great degree, exceedingly 3b3) with muchness, muchness

Usage: Occurs in 278 OT verses. KJV: diligently, especially, exceeding(-ly), far, fast, good, great(-ly), [idiom] louder and louder, might(-ily, -y), (so) much, quickly, (so) sore, utterly, very ([phrase] much, sore), well. See also: Genesis 1:31; 1 Samuel 11:6; Psalms 6:4.

וַ/יִּקַּ֤ח lâqach H3947 "to take" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.

Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)

Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.

שָׁאוּל֙ Shâʼûwl H7586 "Shaul" N-proper

Usage: Occurs in 335 OT verses. KJV: Saul, Shaul. See also: Genesis 36:37; 1 Samuel 16:22; 1 Samuel 24:5.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." 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.

הַ/חֶ֔רֶב chereb H2719 "sword" Art | N-fs

A sword or cutting instrument is what this Hebrew word refers to, including knives and tools for cutting stone. It is used in the Bible to describe weapons and sharp objects.

Definition: 1) sword, knife 1a) sword 1b) knife 1c) tools for cutting stone

Usage: Occurs in 372 OT verses. KJV: axe, dagger, knife, mattock, sword, tool. See also: Genesis 3:24; 2 Samuel 2:16; Psalms 7:13.

וַ/יִּפֹּ֖ל nâphal H5307 "to fall" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to fall, and it's used in many ways, like falling down, failing, or being defeated. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah. God's people often fell away from Him, but He always offered a way back.

Definition: : fall/drop/fail 1) to fall, lie, be cast down, fail 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to fall 1a2) to fall (of violent death) 1a3) to fall prostrate, prostrate oneself before 1a4) to fall upon, attack, desert, fall away to, go away to, fall into the hand of 1a5) to fall short, fail, fall out, turn out, result 1a6) to settle, waste away, be offered, be inferior to 1a7) to lie, lie prostrate 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to fall, fell, throw down, knock out, lay prostrate 1b2) to overthrow 1b3) to make the lot fall, assign by lot, apportion by lot 1b4) to let drop, cause to fail (fig.) 1b5) to cause to fall 1c) (Hithpael) 1c1) to throw or prostrate oneself, throw oneself upon 1c2) to lie prostrate, prostrate oneself 1d) (Pilel) to fall

Usage: Occurs in 403 OT verses. KJV: be accepted, cast (down, self, (lots), out), cease, die, divide (by lot), (let) fail, (cause to, let, make, ready to) fall (away, down, -en, -ing), fell(-ing), fugitive, have (inheritance), inferior, be judged (by mistake for H6419 (פָּלַל)), lay (along), (cause to) lie down, light (down), be ([idiom] hast) lost, lying, overthrow, overwhelm, perish, present(-ed, -ing), (make to) rot, slay, smite out, [idiom] surely, throw down. See also: Genesis 2:21; 1 Samuel 17:52; Esther 9:3.

עָלֶֽי/הָ ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep | Suff

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.

Study Notes — 1 Samuel 31:4

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
1 Samuel 31:4 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 31:4
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 31:4
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 31:4
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 31:4
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 31:4
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 31:4
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 31:4
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 31:4
Sermons on 1 Samuel 31:4

Context — Saul’s Overthrow and Death

2The Philistines hotly pursued Saul and his sons, and they killed Saul’s sons Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua. 3When the battle intensified against Saul, the archers overtook him and wounded him critically.

4Then Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword and run me through with it, or these uncircumcised men will come and run me through and torture me!” But his armor-bearer was terrified and refused to do it. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it.

5When his armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he too fell on his own sword and died with him. 6So Saul, his three sons, his armor-bearer, and all his men died together that same day.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Judges 9:54	He quickly called his armor-bearer, saying, “Draw your sword and kill me, lest they say of me, ‘A woman killed him.’” So Abimelech’s armor-bearer ran his sword through him, and he died.
2	2 Samuel 1:6	“I happened to be on Mount Gilboa,” he replied, “and there was Saul, leaning on his spear, with the chariots and the cavalry closing in on him.
3	2 Samuel 1:9–10	Then he begged me, ‘Stand over me and kill me, for agony has seized me, but my life still lingers.’ So I stood over him and killed him, because I knew that after he had fallen he could not survive. And I took the crown that was on his head and the band that was on his arm, and I have brought them here to my lord.”
4	2 Samuel 1:20	Tell it not in Gath; proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon, lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, and the daughters of the uncircumcised exult.
5	2 Samuel 17:23	When Ahithophel saw that his advice had not been followed, he saddled his donkey and set out for his house in his hometown. He put his affairs in order and hanged himself. So he died and was buried in his father’s tomb.
6	1 Samuel 17:26	David asked the men who were standing with him, “What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and removes this disgrace from Israel? Just who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?”
7	1 Kings 16:27	As for the rest of the acts of Omri, along with his accomplishments and the might he exercised, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel?
8	1 Chronicles 10:4	Then Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword and run it through me, or these uncircumcised men will come and torture me!” But his armor-bearer was terrified and refused to do it. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it.
9	1 Samuel 17:36	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.”
10	2 Samuel 1:14	So David asked him, “Why were you not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the LORD’s anointed?”

1 Samuel 31:4 Summary

This verse shows us that Saul, the king of Israel, was so afraid of being hurt by his enemies that he asked his armor-bearer to kill him. When the armor-bearer refused, Saul took his own life, which is a tragic example of the devastating consequences of disobedience and lack of faith. As we read in Psalm 23:4, God is our shepherd and protector, and we can trust in His goodness and love, even in difficult times. By trusting in God's sovereignty, as seen in Romans 8:28, we can find peace and comfort, even in the midst of fear and uncertainty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Saul ask his armor-bearer to kill him?

Saul asked his armor-bearer to kill him because he feared being tortured by the Philistines, as stated in 1 Samuel 31:4, and he did not want to suffer at their hands, similar to the fear expressed in Deuteronomy 32:30.

What does it mean to be 'uncircumcised' in this context?

In 1 Samuel 31:4, the term 'uncircumcised' refers to the Philistines, who were not part of God's covenant people and did not practice circumcision as a sign of their faith, as mentioned in Genesis 17:10-14 and Romans 2:25-29.

Why did Saul's armor-bearer refuse to kill him?

The armor-bearer was terrified and refused to kill Saul, as stated in 1 Samuel 31:4, likely because he was afraid of taking the life of the king and also because he knew it was a sinful act, as seen in the commandment in Exodus 20:13.

What can we learn from Saul's actions in this verse?

Saul's actions in 1 Samuel 31:4 demonstrate the devastating consequences of disobedience and lack of faith, as seen in the warnings in Proverbs 28:13 and 1 John 1:8-9, and serve as a reminder to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, as encouraged in Psalm 23:4 and Romans 8:28.

Reflection Questions

What are some areas in my life where I am trying to control the outcome, rather than trusting in God's sovereignty?
How can I apply the principle of trusting in God's provision, as seen in Matthew 6:25-34, to my own life and circumstances?
What are some fears or anxieties that I am allowing to dictate my actions, rather than trusting in God's power and protection, as promised in Psalm 23:4 and Isaiah 41:10?
How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's goodness and love, even in the midst of difficult circumstances, as seen in Romans 8:28 and 2 Corinthians 1:3-4?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 31:4

Then said Saul unto his armourbearer,.... Who, the Jews (b) say, was Doeg the Edomite, promoted to this office for slaying the priests: draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; for if he was

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 31:4

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 31:4

Thrust me through, and abuse me; lest they take me, and put me to some shameful and cruel death. Saul took a sword, and fell upon it, and died of the wound, as it follows.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 31:4

1 Samuel 31:4 Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it.Ver. 4. Then said Saul unto his armourbearer.] Whom the Rabbis constantly affirm to have been Doeg, the Edomite, whom Saul had once commanded to slay the Lord’ s priests, and now to do the like to himself. “ Discite iustitiam moniti. ” Lest these uncircumcised come.] To his last he reproaches the Philistines with their uncircumcision: as if his condition had been better than theirs, because he was circumcised. Whereas external privileges profit nothing those that are profane; but they are therefore the worse, because they ought to be better. And abuse me,] i.e., My body, whereof he took more care than for his precious soul; a common fault. His body was abused, nevertheless. But his armourbearer would not.] No more would Mark Antony’ s armourbearer Eras: but, that he might not meddle with his master, fell first upon his own sword. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it.] After that he had first seen so many fall by the sword before him; and that with delight, if he had fallen before into the unpardonable sin, as some think he had. We read of one that had committed that sin, that he wished that his wife and children, and all the world, might be damned together with him. But that he thus desperately slew himself, lest he should be slain by the enemy, "Hic rogo non furor est, ne moriare mori?" So some Jews at the sack of Jerusalem killed themselves, lest they should be taken by the Romans. Cato, lest he should fall into the hands of Caesar; for which suicide Seneca highly extolleth him, but Augustine, upon better grounds, dispraiseth and condemneth that fact of his as absurd and cowardly; especially since at his death he bade his son to do otherwise; yea, to promise himself all good of Caesar’ s clemency. Cleombrotus and the Circumcelliones are not worth mentioning; Brutus and Cassius were to be pitied: but God receiveth not such souls, saith Jerome, as against his will go out of their bodies. Osiander thinketh that Saul’ s desperate death was a forerunner of his everlasting destruction: the Lord taketh it upon himself, and saith that he slew him. Burr., Moses’ s Choice, p. 34. Lib. de Provid. Divin. De Civ. Dei, lib. i. cap. xxiii. Ad Marcel.

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 31:4

(4) His armourbearer.—Jewish tradition tells us that this faithful armourbearer was Doeg, the Edomite, and that the sword which Saul took apparently from the hand of the armourbearer was the sword with which Doeg had massacred the priests at Gibeon and at Nob. Lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me.—“Even in Saul’s dying speech there is something of that religious formalism which marked his character after his fall from God, and which is a striking sign of spiritual blindness. He censures the Philistines as ‘uncircumcised.’”—Wordsworth.Saul had a strong consciousness of the sacredness of his person as the Lord’s anointed; as it has been well said of him, no descendant of a long line of so-styled Christian or Catholic sovereigns has held a loftier claim of personal inviolability. And abuse me.—He remembered how these same Philistines in former years had treated the hero Samson when he fell into their hands. His armourbearer would not.—Love and devotion to his master we can well imagine stayed his hand from carrying out his fallen master’s last terrible command. If the armourbearer—as the Jewish tradition above referred to asserts—was indeed Doeg the Edomite, the two, the king and his confidential officer, had been fast friends for years. Some dread of the after consequences, too, may have weighed with the royal armour-bearer, as he was to a certain extent responsible for the king’s life. What possibly he dreaded actually came to pass in the case of the Amalekite who told David that he was the one who inflicted the fatal stroke when the king was dying; as a guerdon for his act, David had him at once put to death for having put forth his hand to destroy the Lord’s anointed. A sword.—It was a heavy weapon, a war sword, answering to the great epée d’armes of the Middle Ages. This he took from the reluctant hands of his faithful follower, and placing the hilt firmly on the ground, he threw the weight of his body on the point. In 2 Samuel 1:6-10 we have another account of the death. There an Amalekite bearing the royal insignia of the late king, the crown royal and the well-known bracelet of Saul, comes to David at Ziklag after the fatal fight, and recounts how, finding the king leaning on his spear—possibly, as Bunsen supposes, “lying on the ground propping his weary head with the nervously-clutched spear,” exhausted and seized with “cramp” (this is the Rabbinical translation of the word rendered “anguish”), at his urgent request, slew him. Most commentators—for instance, Kiel, Lange, Bishop Hervey, &c.—regard the Amalekite’s story as an invention framed to extract a rich gift from David, who, the savage Arab thought, would be rejoiced to hear of his great enemy’s fall.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 31:4

Verse 4. Draw thy sword, and thrust me through] Dr. Delaney has some good observations on this part of the subject: "Saul and his armour-bearer died by the same sword. That his armour-bearer died by his own sword is out of all doubt; the text expressly tells us so; and that Saul perished by the same sword is sufficiently evident. Draw THY sword, says he to him, and thrust me through; which, when he refused, Saul, says the text, took THE sword, (את החרב eth hachereb, the very sword,) and fell upon it. What sword? Not his own, for then the text would have said so; but, in the plain natural grammatical construction, the sword before mentioned must be the sword now referred to, that is, his armour-bearer's, 1 Chronicles 10:4-5. Now it is the established tradition of all the Jewish nation that this armour-bearer was Doeg, and I see no reason why it should be discredited; and if so, then Saul and his executioner both fell by that weapon with which they had before massacred the priests of God. So Brutus and Cassius killed themselves with the same swords with which they stabbed Caesar; and Calippus was stabbed with the same sword with which he stabbed Dio."

Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 31:4

4. Then said Saul, &c.] Cp. Judges 9:54. these uncircumcised] No indignity could be more intolerable than for the sacred person of Jehovah’s Anointed to be the butt of the heathen who had no part in His covenant. Cp. 1 Samuel 14:6. abuse me] Maltreat me for their own amusement. a sword] His sword.fell upon it] This account of Saul’s death is obviously inconsistent with that given by the Amalekite (2 Samuel 1:9 ff.). His story was a fabrication. He found the king’s corpse on the field, stripped it, and brought the spoil to David in the hope of a reward.

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 31:4

4. His armourbearer would not — He dared not stretch forth his hand against the Lord’s anointed; the very thought of such an act filled him with fear.

Sermons on 1 Samuel 31:4

	Sermon	Description
	Questions/answers on the Interpretation of Old Testament Scriptures by James Blaine Chapman	James Blaine Chapman addresses various questions from the Bible, shedding light on misunderstood passages and providing insightful explanations. From Noah's unintentional vice to t
	Ii Samuel 17:23 by Chuck Smith	Chuck Smith discusses the tragic story of Ahithophel, a once-trusted advisor to King David who became a poor loser after aligning himself with Absalom. Despite his wisdom, Ahithoph
	The Testing of David by Zac Poonen	Zac Poonen emphasizes the testing of David, highlighting how God chose David for his faithfulness and concern for God's glory, contrasting him with Saul, who failed God's tests. Da
	(Gaining God's Approval) 7. the Testing of David by Zac Poonen	Zac Poonen emphasizes the testing of David as a man after God's own heart, highlighting his faithfulness in mundane tasks, concern for God's glory, and refusal to take revenge agai
	Destroy Satan's Fortresses in Your Mind by Zac Poonen	Zac Poonen preaches on the story of David and Goliath, emphasizing David's intense concern for God's name and the honor of God's people. David's willingness to face Goliath stemmed
	The Armies of the Living God. by F.B. Meyer	F.B. Meyer emphasizes the stark contrast between David and the soldiers of Saul, who viewed God as distant and absent, while David experienced God as a living presence in his life.
	I Samuel 17:36 by Chuck Smith	Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of David's faith and past victories in overcoming the giant Goliath. He highlights how David's previous encounters with a lion and a bear pr