1 Samuel 29:3

1 Samuel 29:3 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Then the commanders of the Philistines asked, “What about these Hebrews?” Achish replied, “Is this not David, the servant of King Saul of Israel? He has been with me all these days, even years, and from the day he defected until today I have found no fault in him.”

King James Version KJV

Then said the princes of the Philistines, What do these Hebrews here? And Achish said unto the princes of the Philistines, Is not this David, the servant of Saul the king of Israel, which hath been with me these days, or these years, and I have found no fault in him since he fell unto me unto this day?

American Standard Version ASV

Then said the princes of the Philistines, What do these Hebrews here? And Achish said unto the princes of the Philistines, Is not this David, the servant of Saul the king of Israel, who hath been with me these days, or rather these years, and I have found no fault in him since he fell away unto me unto this day?

Bible in Basic English BBE

Then the rulers of the Philistines said, What are these Hebrews doing here? And Achish said to the rulers of the Philistines, Is this not David, the servant of Saul the king of Israel, who has been with me for a year or two, and I have never seen any wrong in him from the time when he came to me till now?

Free Bible Version FBV

But the Philistine commanders asked, “What are these Hebrews doing here?” Achish replied to the Philistine commanders, “That's David, an officer of King Saul of Israel. He's been with me for a long time, years even, and I haven't found any fault in him since the day he came over to our side up till now.”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Then saide the princes of the Philistims, What doe these Ebrewes here? And Achish said vnto the princes of the Philistims, Is not this Dauid the seruant of Saul the King of Israel, who hath bene with me these dayes, or these yeeres, and I haue found nothing in him, since he dwelt with me vnto this day?

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And the heads of the Philistines say, 'What [are] these Hebrews?' and Achish saith unto the heads of the Philistines, 'Is not this David servant of Saul king of Israel, who hath been with me these days or these years, and I have not found in him anything [wrong] from the day of his falling away till this day.'

World English Bible WEB

Then the princes of the Philistines said, “What about these Hebrews?” Achish said to the princes of the Philistines, “Isn’t this David, the servant of Saul the king of Israel, who has been with me these days, or rather these years? I have found no fault in him since he fell away until today.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Then said the princes of the Philistines, What do these Hebrews here ? And Achish said to the princes of the Philistines, Is not this David, the servant of Saul the king of Israel, who hath been with me these days, or these years, and I have found no fault in him since he fell to me to this day?

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And the princes of the Philistines said to Achis: What mean these Hebrews? And Achis said to the princes of the Philistines: Do you not know David, who was the servant of Saul the king of Israel, and hath been with me many days, or years, and I have found no fault in him, since the day that he fled over to me until this day?

Translation for Translators T4T

But the Philistia commanders asked, “What are these Hebrews doing here, marching with us to battle?” Achish replied, “Their leader is David. He previously worked for King Saul of Israel, but now he has been living near me for more than a year. During all the time since he left Saul, I have not seen/found that he has any faults.”

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Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 29:3

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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 29:3 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּֽאמְרוּ֙ שָׂרֵ֣י פְלִשְׁתִּ֔ים מָ֖ה הָ/עִבְרִ֣ים הָ/אֵ֑לֶּה וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר אָכִ֜ישׁ אֶל שָׂרֵ֣י פְלִשְׁתִּ֗ים הֲ/לֽוֹא זֶ֨ה דָוִ֜ד עֶ֣בֶד שָׁא֣וּל מֶֽלֶךְ יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל אֲשֶׁ֨ר הָיָ֤ה אִתִּ/י֙ זֶ֤ה יָמִים֙ אוֹ זֶ֣ה שָׁנִ֔ים וְ/לֹֽא מָצָ֤אתִי ב/וֹ֙ מְא֔וּמָה מִ/יּ֥וֹם נָפְל֖/וֹ עַד הַ/יּ֥וֹם הַ/זֶּֽה

וַ/יֹּֽאמְרוּ֙ ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

שָׂרֵ֣י sar H8269 ruler N-mp

פְלִשְׁתִּ֔ים Pᵉlishtîy H6430 Philistines Ngmpa

מָ֖ה mâh H4100 what? Part

הָ/עִבְרִ֣ים ʻIbrîy H5680 Hebrew Art | Ngmpa

הָ/אֵ֑לֶּה ʼêl-leh H428 these Art | Pron

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

אָכִ֜ישׁ ʼĂkîysh H397 Achish N-proper

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

שָׂרֵ֣י sar H8269 ruler N-mp

פְלִשְׁתִּ֗ים Pᵉlishtîy H6430 Philistines Ngmpa

הֲ/לֽוֹא lôʼ H3808 not Part | Part

זֶ֨ה zeh H2088 this Pron

דָוִ֜ד Dâvid H1732 David N-proper

עֶ֣בֶד ʻebed H5650 servant/slave N-ms

שָׁא֣וּל Shâʼûwl H7586 Shaul N-proper

מֶֽלֶךְ melek H4428 King's N-ms

יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

אֲשֶׁ֨ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

הָיָ֤ה hâyâh H1961 to be V-Qal-Perf-3ms

אִתִּ/י֙ ʼêth H854 with Prep | Suff

זֶ֤ה zeh H2088 this Pron

יָמִים֙ yôwm H3117 day N-mp

אוֹ ʼôw H176 or Conj

זֶ֣ה zeh H2088 this Pron

שָׁנִ֔ים shâneh H8141 year N-fp

וְ/לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

מָצָ֤אתִי mâtsâʼ H4672 to find V-Qal-Perf-1cs

ב/וֹ֙ Prep | Suff

מְא֔וּמָה mᵉʼûwmâh H3972 anything N-fs

מִ/יּ֥וֹם yôwm H3117 day Prep | N-ms

נָפְל֖/וֹ nâphal H5307 to fall V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff

עַד ʻad H5704 till Prep

הַ/יּ֥וֹם yôwm H3117 day Art | N-ms

הַ/זֶּֽה zeh H2088 this Art | Pron

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 29:3

וַ/יֹּֽאמְרוּ֙ ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

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.

שָׂרֵ֣י sar H8269 "ruler" N-mp

A leader or person in charge, like a prince or captain, as seen in the Bible with King David and other rulers.

Definition: 1) prince, ruler, leader, chief, chieftain, official, captain 1a) chieftain, leader 1b) vassal, noble, official (under king) 1c) captain, general, commander (military) 1d) chief, head, overseer (of other official classes) 1e) heads, princes (of religious office) 1f) elders (of representative leaders of people) 1g) merchant-princes (of rank and dignity) 1h) patron-angel 1i) Ruler of rulers (of God) 1j) warden

Usage: Occurs in 368 OT verses. KJV: captain (that had rule), chief (captain), general, governor, keeper, lord,(-task-)master, prince(-ipal), ruler, steward. See also: Genesis 12:15; 1 Kings 22:32; 2 Chronicles 32:21.

פְלִשְׁתִּ֔ים Pᵉlishtîy H6430 "Philistines" Ngmpa

A Philistine is a person from the region of Philistia, which was inhabited by immigrants from other places. The Philistines were known for their conflicts with the Israelites, as recorded in the Bible. They were a distinct ethnic group.

Definition: Philistine = "immigrants" an inhabitant of Philistia; descendants of Mizraim who immigrated from Caphtor (Crete?) to the western seacoast of Canaan Another name of ga.dol (גָּדוֹל "Great( Sea)" H1419J)

Usage: Occurs in 244 OT verses. KJV: Philistine. See also: Genesis 10:14; 1 Samuel 17:8; 1 Chronicles 10:1.

מָ֖ה mâh H4100 "what?" Part

This Hebrew word means what or how, often used to ask questions or express surprise, like in Genesis when God asks Adam what he has done. It can also mean why or when, and is used in various ways throughout the Old Testament. It appears in many KJV translations, including how or what.

Definition: interr pron 1) what, how, of what kind 1a) (interrogative) 1a1) what? 1a2) of what kind 1a3) what? (rhetorical) 1a4) whatsoever, whatever, what 1b) (adverb) 1b1) how, how now 1b2) why 1b3) how! (exclamation) 1c) (with prep) 1c1) wherein?, whereby?, wherewith?, by what means? 1c2) because of what? 1c3) the like of what? 1c3a) how much?, how many?, how often? 1c3b) for how long? 1c4) for what reason?, why?, to what purpose? 1c5) until when?, how long?, upon what?, wherefore? indef pron 2) anything, aught, what may

Usage: Occurs in 655 OT verses. KJV: how (long, oft, (-soever)), (no-) thing, what (end, good, purpose, thing), whereby(-fore, -in, -to, -with), (for) why. See also: Genesis 2:19; Numbers 21:5; 1 Samuel 19:5.

הָ/עִבְרִ֣ים ʻIbrîy H5680 "Hebrew" Art | Ngmpa

Ibriy refers to a Hebrew person, a descendant of Eber, and is first mentioned in Genesis 14:13. It describes the Israelites and their ancestors, including Abraham and his family.

Definition: Someone descended from Heber (H2268)(?), first mentioned at Gen.14.13 Also named: Hebraios (Ἑβραῖος "Hebrew" G1445) § Hebrew = "one from beyond" n pr 1) a designation of the patriarchs and the Israelites adj 2) a designation of the patriarchs and the Israelites

Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: Hebrew(-ess, woman). See also: Genesis 14:13; Exodus 9:1; Jeremiah 34:9.

הָ/אֵ֑לֶּה 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.

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

אָכִ֜ישׁ ʼĂkîysh H397 "Achish" N-proper

Achish was a Philistine king who lived during the time of the United Monarchy in Israel. He is mentioned in 1 Samuel and Psalm 34, also known as Abimelech.

Definition: A man living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Sa.21.10; son of: Maoch (H4582); also called Abimelech (NIV: Abimelek) at Psa.34.1; Also named: a.vi.me.lekh (אֲבִימֶ֫לֶךְ "Abimelech" H0040I) § Achish = "I will blacken (or terrify)" or "only a man" Philistine king of Gath

Usage: Occurs in 20 OT verses. KJV: Achish. See also: 1 Samuel 21:11; 1 Samuel 27:12; 1 Kings 2:40.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

שָׂרֵ֣י sar H8269 "ruler" N-mp

A leader or person in charge, like a prince or captain, as seen in the Bible with King David and other rulers.

פְלִשְׁתִּ֗ים Pᵉlishtîy H6430 "Philistines" Ngmpa

Usage: Occurs in 244 OT verses. KJV: Philistine. See also: Genesis 10:14; 1 Samuel 17:8; 1 Chronicles 10:1.

הֲ/לֽוֹא lôʼ H3808 "not" Part | 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.

זֶ֨ה zeh H2088 "this" 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.

דָוִ֜ד Dâvid H1732 "David" N-proper

David was the youngest son of Jesse and a king of Judah, first mentioned in Ruth 4:17, and an ancestor of Jesus.

Definition: A king of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at Rut.4.17; son of: Jesse (H3448) and Nahash (H5176I); brother of: Eliab (H0446I), Abinadab (H0041I), Shimeah (H8093), Zeruiah (H6870), Abigail (H0026H)(?), Nethanel (H5417H), Raddai (H7288), Ozem (H0684) and Elihu (H0453J); married to Michal (H4324), Abigail (H0026), Ahinoam (H0293H), Maacah (H4601I), Haggith (H2294), Abital (H0037), Eglah (H5698) and Bathsheba (H1339); father of: Amnon (H0550), Chileab (H3609), Absalom (H0053), Adonijah (H0138), Shephatiah (H8203), Ithream (H3507), Shammua (H8051H), Shobab (H7727), Nathan (H5416), Solomon (H8010), Ibhar (H2984), Elishua (H0474), Nepheg (H5298H), Japhia (H3309I), Elishama (H0476H), Eliada (H0450), Eliphelet (H0467), Tamar (H8559H), Elpelet (H0467I), Nogah (H5052) and Jerimoth (H3406N) Also named: Daueid, Dauid, Dabid (Δαυείδ, Δαυίδ, Δαβίδ "David" G1138) § David = "beloved" youngest son of Jesse and second king of Israel

Usage: Occurs in 912 OT verses. KJV: David. See also: Ruth 4:17; 1 Samuel 20:41; 1 Samuel 27:9.

עֶ֣בֶד ʻebed H5650 "servant/slave" N-ms

This word refers to a servant or slave, often in the context of serving God or a human master. It can also describe a prophet or Levite. The KJV translates it as bondage, bondman, or servant.

Definition: 1) slave, servant 1a) slave, servant, man-servant 1b) subjects 1c) servants, worshippers (of God) 1d) servant (in special sense as prophets, Levites etc) 1e) servant (of Israel) 1f) servant (as form of address between equals) Aramaic equivalent: a.vad (עֲבַד "servant/slave" H5649)

Usage: Occurs in 714 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] bondage, bondman, (bond-) servant, (man-) servant. See also: Genesis 9:25; Exodus 11:3; 1 Samuel 8:16.

שָׁא֣וּל 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.

מֶֽלֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" 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.

יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 "Israel" N-proper

Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.

Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile

Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.

אֲשֶׁ֨ר 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.

הָיָ֤ה hâyâh H1961 "to be" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone

Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.

אִתִּ/י֙ ʼêth H854 "with" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew preposition means 'with' or 'near', indicating a close relationship or physical proximity. It's used in Genesis 1:26 to describe God's relationship with humanity, and in many other places to show connection or closeness.

Definition: 1) with, near, together with 1a) with, together with 1b) with (of relationship) 1c) near (of place) 1d) with (poss.) 1e) from...with, from (with other prep)

Usage: Occurs in 787 OT verses. KJV: against, among, before, by, for, from, in(-to), (out) of, with. Often with another prepositional prefix. See also: Genesis 4:1; Genesis 42:32; Numbers 1:5.

זֶ֤ה zeh H2088 "this" Pron

יָמִים֙ yôwm H3117 "day" N-mp

The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow

Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.

אוֹ ʼôw H176 "or" Conj

Desire can also mean or, and, or if, showing a choice between options, as seen in Proverbs 31:4. It is used to express alternatives or possibilities.

Definition: 1) or, rather 1a) implying that the latter choice is preferred 1b) or if, introducing an example to be seen under a particular principle 1c) (in series) either...or, whether...or 1d) if perchance 1e) except, or else 2) whether, not the least, if, otherwise, also, and, then

Usage: Occurs in 218 OT verses. KJV: also, and, either, if, at the least, [idiom] nor, or, otherwise, then, whether. See also: Genesis 24:49; Leviticus 25:49; Proverbs 30:31.

זֶ֣ה zeh H2088 "this" Pron

שָׁנִ֔ים shâneh H8141 "year" N-fp

This word also means a year, like when Abraham was 100 years old in Genesis 21. It is used to describe a period of time, age, or a lifetime.

Definition: 1) year 1a) as division of time 1b) as measure of time 1c) as indication of age 1d) a lifetime (of years of life) Aramaic equivalent: she.nah (שְׁנָה "year" H8140)

Usage: Occurs in 647 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] whole age, [idiom] long, [phrase] old, year([idiom] -ly). See also: Genesis 1:14; Genesis 47:28; Numbers 7:35.

וְ/לֹֽא 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.

מָצָ֤אתִי mâtsâʼ H4672 "to find" V-Qal-Perf-1cs

Matsa means to find or attain something, whether it is a physical object, a person, or a condition, as seen in various KJV translations.

Definition: 1) to find, attain to 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to find 1a1a) to find, secure, acquire, get (thing sought) 1a1b) to find (what is lost) 1a1c) to meet, encounter 1a1d) to find (a condition) 1a1e) to learn, devise 1a2) to find out 1a2a) to find out 1a2b) to detect 1a2c) to guess 1a3) to come upon, light upon 1a3a) to happen upon, meet, fall in with 1a3b) to hit 1a3c) to befall 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be found 1b1a) to be encountered, be lighted upon, be discovered 1b1b) to appear, be recognised 1b1c) to be discovered, be detected 1b1d) to be gained, be secured 1b2) to be, be found 1b2a) to be found in 1b2b) to be in the possession of 1b2c) to be found in (a place), happen to be 1b2d) to be left (after war) 1b2e) to be present 1b2f) to prove to be 1b2g) to be found sufficient, be enough 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to find, attain 1c2) to cause to light upon, come upon, come 1c3) to cause to encounter 1c4) to present (offering)

Usage: Occurs in 425 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] be able, befall, being, catch, [idiom] certainly, (cause to) come (on, to, to hand), deliver, be enough (cause to) find(-ing, occasion, out), get (hold upon), [idiom] have (here), be here, hit, be left, light (up-) on, meet (with), [idiom] occasion serve, (be) present, ready, speed, suffice, take hold on. See also: Genesis 2:20; Deuteronomy 22:3; 2 Kings 9:35.

ב/וֹ֙ "" Prep | Suff

מְא֔וּמָה mᵉʼûwmâh H3972 "anything" N-fs

This word refers to something, no matter how small, or nothing at all. It's used in phrases like 'anything' or 'nothing'. The Bible uses it in various books to convey the idea of something or nothing.

Definition: anything

Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: fault, [phrase] no(-ught), ought, somewhat, any (no-)thing. See also: Genesis 22:12; 1 Samuel 25:15; Jeremiah 39:10.

מִ/יּ֥וֹם yôwm H3117 "day" Prep | N-ms

נָפְל֖/וֹ nâphal H5307 "to fall" V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff

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.

עַד ʻad H5704 "till" Prep

This Hebrew word means until or as far as, describing a point in time or space. It's used in the Bible to set boundaries or limits, like in Exodus when describing the Israelites' journey.

Definition: prep 1) as far as, even to, until, up to, while, as far as 1a) of space 1a1) as far as, up to, even to 1b) in combination 1b1) from...as far as, both...and (with 'min' -from) 1c) of time 1c1) even to, until, unto, till, during, end 1d) of degree 1d1) even to, to the degree of, even like conj 2) until, while, to the point that, so that even Aramaic equivalent: ad (עַד "till" H5705)

Usage: Occurs in 1128 OT verses. KJV: against, and, as, at, before, by (that), even (to), for(-asmuch as), (hither-) to, [phrase] how long, into, as long (much) as, (so) that, till, toward, until, when, while, ([phrase] as) yet. See also: Genesis 3:19; Exodus 32:20; Numbers 23:24.

הַ/יּ֥וֹם yôwm H3117 "day" Art | N-ms

הַ/זֶּֽה zeh H2088 "this" Art | Pron

Study Notes — 1 Samuel 29:3

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
1 Samuel 29:3 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 29:3
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 29:3
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 29:3
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 29:3
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 29:3
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 29:3
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 29:3
Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 29:3
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 29:3
Sermons on 1 Samuel 29:3

Context — The Philistines Reject David

1Now the Philistines brought all their forces together at Aphek, while Israel camped by the spring in Jezreel. 2As the Philistine leaders marched out with their units of hundreds and thousands, David and his men marched behind them with Achish.

3Then the commanders of the Philistines asked, “What about these Hebrews?” Achish replied, “Is this not David, the servant of King Saul of Israel? He has been with me all these days, even years, and from the day he defected until today I have found no fault in him.”

4But the commanders of the Philistines were angry with Achish and told him, “Send that man back and let him return to the place you assigned him. He must not go down with us into battle only to become our adversary during the war. What better way for him to regain the favor of his master than with the heads of our men? 5Is this not the David about whom they sing in their dances: ‘Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands’?”

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Daniel 6:5	Finally these men said, “We will never find any charge against this Daniel, unless we find something against him concerning the law of his God.”
2	1 Samuel 27:7	And the time that David lived in Philistine territory amounted to a year and four months.
3	John 19:6	As soon as the chief priests and officers saw Him, they shouted, “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!” “You take Him and crucify Him,” Pilate replied, “for I find no basis for a charge against Him.”
4	1 Peter 3:16	keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ.
5	1 Samuel 25:28	Please forgive your servant’s offense, for the LORD will surely make a lasting dynasty for my lord, because he fights the LORD’s battles. May no evil be found in you as long as you live.
6	Romans 12:17	Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody.

1 Samuel 29:3 Summary

[This verse shows us that even though David was living among the Philistines, he had earned the trust of their leader, Achish, by being faithful and not causing any trouble, much like we are called to be faithful in our own lives, as seen in Matthew 5:16. Achish's defense of David is a powerful example of how our actions and character can impact those around us and build trust, just as God desires for us to trust in Him, as expressed in Psalm 37:3-7. The fact that Achish found no fault in David during his time with the Philistines speaks to David's integrity and commitment to his values, even in challenging circumstances, and encourages us to do the same, as seen in 1 Corinthians 10:31.]

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Philistine commanders ask about the Hebrews?

The Philistine commanders asked about the Hebrews because they were concerned about having enemies, specifically David and his men, in their midst, as seen in 1 Samuel 29:3, and this concern is rooted in the knowledge of David's past victories, like those mentioned in 2 Samuel 8:1-14.

What is the significance of Achish's response to the Philistine commanders?

Achish's response in 1 Samuel 29:3 indicates that he has come to trust David, having found no fault in him during his time with the Philistines, much like the trust God has in those who are faithful to Him, as seen in Proverbs 28:20.

How does this verse relate to David's overall story in the Bible?

This verse is part of the larger narrative of David's life, where he often found himself between his loyalty to his people and his circumstances among the Philistines, a theme also explored in Psalms 138:8, where David trusts in God's goodness and faithfulness.

What can we learn from Achish's defense of David?

Achish's defense of David teaches us about the importance of loyalty and trust, as well as the impact of our witness on those around us, much like the apostle Paul's defense of his ministry in 2 Corinthians 1:12-14.

Reflection Questions

What are some times in your life when you have had to navigate loyalty and trust with others, and how did you respond?
How does Achish's trust in David reflect or challenge your own trust in God's sovereignty in difficult situations?
In what ways can you apply the lesson of being a faithful witness, as seen in David's life among the Philistines, to your own relationships and circumstances?
What does this verse reveal about God's character and His plan for David's life, and how can this inform your understanding of God's plan for your own life?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 29:3

Then said the princes of the Philistines,.... To Achish; not those of the court of Achish, who were his subjects, but the confederate princes with him in this war, the lords of the other

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 29:3

Then said the princes of the Philistines, What do these Hebrews here?

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 29:3

The princes of the Philistines; the lords of the other eminent cities and territories, who were confederate with him in this expedition. These days, or these years: q.d. Did I say days? I might have said years; either because he hath now been with me a full year and four months, , or because he was with me some years ago, , and since that time hath been known to me. And it is not improbable but David, after his escape from thence, might hold some correspondence with Achish, as finding him to be a man of more generous temper than the rest of the Philistines, and supposing that he might have need of him for a refuge in case Saul continued to seek his life. Since he fell into me, i. e. since he revolted or left his own king to turn to me; for that sense Achish put upon this escape of David, and so is the phrase of falling to a party elsewhere used, ,14.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 29:3

1 Samuel 29:3 Then said the princes of the Philistines, What [do] these Hebrews [here]? And Achish said unto the princes of the Philistines, [Is] not this David, the servant of Saul the king of Israel, which hath been with me these days, or these years, and I have found no fault in him since he fell [unto me] unto this day?Ver. 3. What do these Hebrews here?] A people ever as much hated by the heathens for their religion, as afterwards the Christians were: but now more than ordinarily by these Philistines, because their mortal enemies. And I have found no fault in him.] Faults David had not a few, and if the best man’ s faults were written in his forehead, it would make him pull his hat over his eyes, but God had hid them from public notice; which was to him a greater mercy than it is to us, that the filth and stench that is within us annoyeth us not. If Seneca could say of Cato, that he was the lively image of all virtues: and Valerius Maximus of Scipio, that he was the man whom God would have [to be] born, ut esset in quo virtus per omnes numeros hominibus efficaciter se ostenderet, that he might be a perfect pattern to men of unblamable conversation: how much more might the same be said of the holy David?

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 29:3

(3) These days, or these years.—An indefinite expression of time. The versions have translated it in various ways. The English Version here is literal. The Syrlac singularly renders, “this time, and time, and months.” The LXX. is not very easy to understand here, but it apparently took the expression as signifying “two years.” Maurer would translate, “who has been with me alway, for days, or rather for years.”

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 29:3

Verse 3. These days, or these years] I suppose these words to mark no definite time, and may be understood thus: "Is not this David, who has been with me for a considerable time?"

Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 29:3

3. princes] The Hebrew equivalent for the special title Seren rendered lord. Hebrews] See on 1 Samuel 4:6. these days, or these years] Lit. “now days (= a year) or now years,’ i.e. for a considerable time, sufficient to test his fidelity. Cp. 1 Samuel 27:7. since he fell unto me] i.e. deserted and came over to me. Cp. 1 Chronicles 12:19-20.

Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 29:3

He fell unto me - The regular word for deserting and going over to the other side. See Jeremiah 37:13; Jeremiah 38:19.

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 29:3

3. These days, or these years — That is, a time sufficiently long to convince him of David’s loyalty.

Sermons on 1 Samuel 29:3

	Sermon	Description
	A Believer Out of Place by Theodore Epp	Theodore Epp discusses how God delivered David from a precarious situation in Gath, emphasizing the importance of maintaining distinct Christian standards in a worldly environment.
	Jesus Stands Trial Before Pilate John 18:28-19:16 by David Servant	David Servant delves into the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, highlighting Pilate's struggle to find Jesus guilty of a crime punishable by death, despite knowing the chief pr
	John 18:37-19:15 by St. John Chrysostom	John Chrysostom preaches on the humility and endurance of Jesus during His trial before Pilate, highlighting how Jesus exhibited gentleness, mildness, and silence in the face of fa
	(Montana) Daniel by Keith Daniel	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer and thanksgiving in the life of a believer. He highlights the example of Daniel, who prayed and gave thanks to God t
	Power of a Pure Conscience by Tom Allen	In this sermon, the preacher uses the analogy of baby robins in a nest to illustrate how some Christians are constantly relying on others for spiritual nourishment instead of takin
	Tongues - Part 2 by Ken Baird	In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the rest that believers can find in Christ, a rest that was not fully realized in the Old Testament. He emphasizes the supernatural nature o
	A Seared Conscience by Charles Finney	Charles Finney addresses the concept of a seared conscience, explaining that it is not merely a lack of knowledge of right and wrong, but a state of insensitivity to moral obligati