1 Samuel 21:15 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

Have I need of mad men, that ye have brought this fellow to play the mad man in my presence? shall this fellow come into my house?

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

Do I need crazy people around me? Why did you bring this man here to act insane in front of me? Should this man be allowed into my house?

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

The writer is showing King Achish dismissing David as harmless because he thinks David is mentally unstable and poses no threat.

📚 Historical Context

David had fled from King Saul and sought refuge with the Philistine king Achish of Gath. When David realized he might be recognized as Israel's warrior, he pretended to be insane by scratching on doors and drooling. This verse records Achish's reaction, dismissing David as just another madman who posed no threat to his kingdom.

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