1 Samuel 16:18 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

Bible Comments

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. I have seen a son of Jesse - Dr. Warburton supposes the story is anticipated from 1 Samuel 16:14-23, and that the true chronology of this part of David's life is the following: -

1. David is anointed by Samuel;

2. Carries provisions to his brethren in the army;

3. Fights with and kills Goliath;

4. Is received into the king's court,

5. Contracts a friendship with Jonathan;

6. Incurs Saul's jealousy;

7. Retires to his father's house;

8. Is after some time sent for by Saul to sooth his melancholy with his harp;

9. Again excites Saul's jealousy, who endeavors to smite him with his javelin.

This anticipation between the 14th and 23d verse comes in, in the order of time, between 1 Samuel 16:9 and 1 Samuel 16:10, 1 Samuel 18:9, 1 Samuel 18:10, where the breach is apparent.

1 Samuel 16:18

18 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,f and a comely person, and the LORD is with him.