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Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 16 - Verse 20

16:20
And Jesse took an ass laden with bread, and a bottle of wine, and a kid, and sent them by David his son unto Saul.

Meaning

According to this verse from the Bible, Jesse sent his son David to Saul with a gift consisting of an ass laden with bread, a bottle of wine, and a kid. This gesture can be interpreted as a demonstration of honor and respect towards Saul, as well as a way to seek favor with him. The act of sending valuable gifts was a common practice in ancient times as a means of showing goodwill and building alliances. In this context, Jesse's actions could be seen as an attempt to gain Saul's favor and ensure a positive reception for David. Additionally, the choice of gifts - bread, wine, and a kid - may symbolize sustenance, celebration, and innocence, respectively, reflecting the desire for a harmonious relationship between David and Saul. Overall, this verse highlights the importance of diplomatic gestures and strategic gift-giving in ancient societies, as well as the complexities of interpersonal relationships and power dynamics.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of 1 Samuel, Jesse, the father of David, sends his son to take provisions to Saul. The items David is instructed to bring - bread, wine, and a kid - can have symbolic significance in a theological interpretation. Bread is often associated with sustenance and provision, pointing to God's care for His people. Wine can symbolize joy, celebration, and the blood of Christ shed for our sins. The kid, a young goat, could represent innocence or sacrifice, foreshadowing Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb. Additionally, the act of sending David to Saul can be seen as a foreshadowing of David's future interactions with Saul as he becomes king. Overall, this verse can be understood as a precursor to the relationship between David, Saul, and God's providence throughout the Biblical narrative.

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