Topical Bible: Spear: Stuck in the Ground Beside the Bolster During Sleep

◄ Spear: Stuck in the Ground Beside the Bolster During Sleep ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The spear, a weapon commonly used in ancient warfare, is mentioned in several instances throughout the Bible. One notable occurrence is found in the narrative of David and Saul, where the spear plays a significant role in illustrating themes of mercy, divine protection, and the sovereignty of God.

In 1 Samuel 26, David encounters King Saul in the wilderness of Ziph. Saul, who is pursuing David with the intent to kill him, sets up camp for the night. As Saul and his men sleep, David and Abishai, one of his loyal followers, infiltrate the camp. They find Saul asleep with his spear stuck in the ground beside his bolster, a term referring to a pillow or headrest. The Berean Standard Bible describes the scene: "So David and Abishai came to the troops by night, and there lay Saul, sleeping in the inner circle of the camp with his spear stuck in the ground by his head. Abner and the troops were lying around him" (1 Samuel 26:7).

The spear, positioned beside Saul's head, symbolizes his authority and readiness for battle. It also serves as a tangible representation of the threat Saul poses to David. Abishai sees this as an opportunity to kill Saul, suggesting to David, "Today God has delivered your enemy into your hand. Now let me pin him to the ground with one thrust of the spear; I will not need to strike him twice" (1 Samuel 26:8). However, David refrains from harming Saul, demonstrating his respect for Saul's position as the Lord's anointed king and his trust in God's timing and justice.

David's decision to spare Saul, despite having the means and opportunity to end his life, highlights his faithfulness and integrity. The spear, therefore, becomes a symbol of David's restraint and his commitment to God's will. David takes the spear and a jug of water from Saul's side as evidence of his presence and his choice to spare the king's life. Later, from a safe distance, David calls out to Saul and his men, revealing what he has taken and proving his loyalty and righteousness.

This episode underscores the biblical themes of mercy and divine providence. David's refusal to use the spear against Saul illustrates his reliance on God for protection and justice, rather than taking matters into his own hands. The spear, stuck in the ground beside Saul's bolster, serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for violence and the choice to pursue peace and righteousness instead.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 26:7-11
So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay sleeping within the trench, and his spear stuck in the ground at his bolster: but Abner and the people lay round about him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook