Making a First Impression: The Characterisation of David and His Opening Words in 1 Samuel 17:25-31

Abstract

David is perhaps the most complex character in all of Scripture. He has been understood in many and various ways, from a backstabbing, ruthless warlord to a pious and poetic shepherd-king. One place we ought to probe when asking the question of David’s character is his first speech. It has been noted that in the Hebrew Bible first words are particularly important moments of characterisation. In the case of David, his first words look initially to emphasise his scheming and ambition. However, the present essay will take a closer look at David’s first words and argue that they present a more complex character than may first appear.