MPV Commentary

He Anoints David.

11. The youngest son was still to be considered, and indeed he was in charge of the sheep. Jesse seemed to have no idea that David possessed wisdom and bravery, so he spoke of him as the least suitable for the task. However, God's providence arranged it this way to make it clear that David's appointment was a divine purpose, not the design either of Samuel or Jesse. After being summoned, David likely returned to his pastoral duties since he had not been included in the previous sanctification.

12. He was ruddy and handsome, according to Josephus, who estimated David's age at ten years old. Most modern commentators believe he was around fifteen years old.

13. Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him privately. This transaction must have been a private affair.

14-18. The Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him. His own dark reflections, the knowledge that he had not lived up to his role as king, the loss of his throne, and the extinction of his royal house made him jealous, irritable, vindictive, and prone to fits of melancholy.

19. Saul sent messengers to Jesse, instructing him to send David. In the East, a king's command is absolute; Jesse was reluctant but had no choice but to comply.

20. Jesse prepared an ass laden with bread, wine, and a kid as a token of homage and respect for Saul.

21. David arrived at Saul's court, where he became familiar with the royal mannerisms, government business, and the kingdom's general state. This experience prepared him for his destiny.

22. David was appointed as Saul's armor-bearer, an honor that demonstrated the king's favor. This position held great esteem in those times.

23. David took up a harp and began to play with his hands; this brought relief to Saul, who felt refreshed and well again. The ancient people believed music had a mysterious influence on healing mental disorders.