1 Samuel 30 27

1 Samuel 30:27 kjv

To them which were in Bethel, and to them which were in south Ramoth, and to them which were in Jattir,

1 Samuel 30:27 nkjv

to those who were in Bethel, those who were in Ramoth of the South, those who were in Jattir,

1 Samuel 30:27 niv

David sent it to those who were in Bethel, Ramoth Negev and Jattir;

1 Samuel 30:27 esv

It was for those in Bethel, in Ramoth of the Negeb, in Jattir,

1 Samuel 30:27 nlt

The gifts were sent to the people of the following towns David had visited: Bethel, Ramoth-negev, Jattir,

1 Samuel 30 verses

1 Samuel 30 27 Meaning

This verse initiates a detailed list of the towns and elders to whom David, after the successful recovery of the spoil from the Amalekites, sent a portion of the recaptured goods. It highlights David's judicious distribution of the spoils of war, which he viewed as the Lord's provision, ensuring various Judahite communities received a share. This action was both an act of generosity and a strategic move to build goodwill and solidify support among his future subjects, aligning with the principles of leadership that honor God's provision and people.

1 Samuel 30 27 Context

Chapter 30 details David's devastating return to Ziklag to find it burned and their families taken captive by the Amalekites. After a moment of distress and being strengthened in the Lord, David inquires of God, pursues the raiding party, and with divine aid, recovers all that was lost and acquires abundant spoil. David then establishes a new ordinance for dividing the spoil, ensuring those who remained behind guarding the baggage received an equal share with those who went to battle (1 Sam 30:24-25). This act demonstrated his sense of justice and fairness. Verses 26-31 then specify the distribution of the captured wealth among various towns and elders in Judah, strategically fostering goodwill and reinforcing his nascent political influence among the Judahite tribes, positioning him for future kingship over Judah. This verse, 1 Samuel 30:27, marks the beginning of this precise list of recipients.

1 Samuel 30 27 Word analysis

• To those who were in: (לַאֲשֶׁר בְּ la-'asher bə-) This phrase indicates the recipients and their location, highlighting that David's gifts were directed specifically to certain communities through their elders. It signifies a targeted act of distribution.
• Bethel: (בֵּית־אֵל Beyth-'El) Meaning "House of God," this was a historically significant location from patriarchal times (Gen 28:19). While the northern Bethel (near Ai) is well-known, this is understood to be a different Bethel, likely in the Negeb or southern Judah, as the context is David operating among southern Judahite towns. Its importance would lie in its tribal associations and potential as a population center. Sending spoil here shows an intention to build connections within vital southern Judahite areas.
• Ramoth of the Negeb: (רָמוֹת נֶגֶב Ramoth Negeb) Meaning "Heights of the South." Ramoth signifies "heights" or "high places," common in names for elevated settlements. The "Negeb" (also spelled Negev) refers to the dry, southern region of Judah. This emphasizes the geographic extent of David's network and generosity within the crucial southern territories that would form the heartland of his kingdom. These towns likely harbored individuals sympathetic to David or were strategic points in Judah.
• Jattir: (יַתִּיר Yattir) This city, located in the hill country of Judah, was designated as a Levitical city, belonging to the priests from the family of Aaron (Josh 21:14). David sending gifts here is particularly insightful. It shows respect for the Levitical priesthood and an understanding of the religious and moral authority they wielded. Gaining the favor of the priestly cities would lend religious legitimacy to his leadership, demonstrating wisdom beyond mere political gain. It suggests a king who recognizes divine authority and spiritual order.

1 Samuel 30 27 Bonus section

The practice of distributing spoil was not just a gesture of goodwill but also an ancient way of establishing allegiance and reciprocal obligation within a tribal society. David's choice of towns also included places that may have offered him refuge during his wilderness years (like Hebron, 1 Sam 30:31), thus acting as a form of "repayment" for past kindnesses and securing future loyalty. This detailed listing implies a conscious, methodical approach, indicating David's maturity as a leader who planned strategically for the future, demonstrating he was prepared for the kingship that lay ahead. His actions are reflective of a "king after God's own heart" (1 Sam 13:14; Acts 13:22), prioritizing the people and God's principles even in matters of war and wealth.

1 Samuel 30 27 Commentary

1 Samuel 30:27 illuminates David's leadership acumen and divine wisdom. Following his miraculous victory, David did not hoard the spoil but distributed it widely among key communities in Judah. This action solidified his popular support among the elders and people, fulfilling the role of a righteous leader who shares prosperity rather than monopolizing it. His choice of recipients – including historically significant and religiously important towns like Jattir (a priestly city) – showcases a shrewd political strategy fused with principles of justice and a desire for unity. It was a tangible expression of David's gratitude for God's provision and his commitment to the welfare of his people, foreshadowing his reign as king of Judah. This act also subtly contrasts with the typical actions of plunderers, who usually only sought their own enrichment. David, having been blessed by the Lord with much spoil, became a blessing to many others.