MPV Commentary

The Churlish Answer Provokes Him.

Nabal responded to David's servants with a question: "Who is David?" This response suggests that the region was in a state of disorder at the time. However, Nabal's own servants were quick to attest to David's good character and the valuable services he and his men had provided. In fact, their testimony would have been consistent with the established customs of the area.

In those days, Arab leaders like David protected the livestock of wealthy shepherds from marauding tribes or wild beasts. As a result, they were entitled to receive supplies and necessities as a form of tribute. When these were withheld, it was considered a legitimate claim that could be enforced. Nabal's refusal to provide for David's men was therefore a breach of the local customs.

Two hundred men had joined David after his return to Judah (see 1Sa 22:2).