One verse. Three ways to understand.
Then Saul took three thousand of Israel's best soldiers and went out to hunt for David and his men in the rocky wilderness where wild goats live.
Saul is pursuing David with a large army, determined to capture him in the dangerous wilderness.
These are AI-assisted adaptations, not separate Bible editions. Compare them with the KJV source and read our methodology. How these readings are made →
Read the KJV source
King James Version · EnglishThen Saul took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and went to seek David and his men upon the rocks of the wild goats.Ask the AI Assistant
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📚 Historical Context
In the book of 1 Samuel, King Saul is pursuing David, who has been secretly anointed as the future king by the prophet Samuel, because Saul views him as a rival to the throne. This verse occurs during David's time in hiding in the wilderness of Engedi, a rugged and desolate area known for its rocky cliffs and wild goats, symbolizing the harsh realities of fleeing from persecution. Saul's mobilization of three thousand chosen men reflects the military strategies of ancient Israel, where kings used large forces to maintain power and eliminate threats.