Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 23 - Verse 24

23:24
And they arose, and went to Ziph before Saul: but David and his men were in the wilderness of Maon, in the plain on the south of Jeshimon.

Meaning

This verse describes a specific event in the life of David, the future king of Israel, as he was fleeing from Saul, the current king who was seeking to kill him out of jealousy. In this particular instance, David and his men were hiding in the wilderness of Maon, which was a rugged and desolate area in the southern region of Jeshimon. Meanwhile, Saul, along with his army, was approaching Ziph in pursuit of David. The contrast between the two locations - the isolated wilderness where David sought refuge and the more populated area where Saul was headed - highlights the intense and dangerous situation David found himself in. Despite the odds stacked against him, David continued to trust in God for his protection and deliverance. This passage serves as a reminder of the faith and courage David displayed in the face of adversity, and it also underscores the importance of seeking God's guidance and protection in times of trouble.

Theological Overview

According to theological interpretation, the verse where David and his men are in the wilderness of Maon while Saul searches for them in Ziph carries significance in terms of the biblical narrative of God's protection and provision. In this verse, David and his men are depicted as being in a vulnerable position, hiding from King Saul who seeks to harm them. However, despite the danger they face, God's presence with David is evident as he navigates through the wilderness of Maon. The wilderness setting serves as a backdrop for David's trust in God's faithfulness and protection, emphasizing the theme of divine deliverance amidst perilous circumstances. The location names mentioned, Ziph, Maon, Jeshimon, all carry symbolic meanings in the biblical context, highlighting the layers of spiritual significance woven into the narrative. Through word studies of these locations, we gain deeper insights into the historical and geographical context of David's journey, shedding light on the profound theological truths embedded in this passage.

American Standard Version

And they arose, and went to Ziph before Saul: but David and his men were in the wilderness of Maon, in the Arabah on the south of the desert.
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