1 Samuel 17:57

57 When David returned from killing the Philistine, Abner brought him to Saul. David had the Philistine's head in his hand.

1 Samuel 17:57 Meaning and Commentary

1 Samuel 17:57

And as David returned from the slaughter of the Philistine,
&c.] Carrying his head in triumph, and no doubt accompanied with the acclamations of the people:

Abner took him and brought him before Saul, with the head of the
Philistine in his hand;
to give an answer to the king's question concerning him, who could best do it himself; and that Saul might have the opportunity of rewarding him, according to his merit, for so great a piece of service he had done for Israel, of which the head in his hand was a sufficient proof.

1 Samuel 17:57 In-Context

55 As Saul watched David going out against the Philistine, he asked Abner, the commander of the army, "Abner, whose son is this young man?" Abner answered, "I solemnly swear, as you live, Your Majesty, I don't know."

56 The king said, "Find out whose son this young man is."

57 When David returned from killing the Philistine, Abner brought him to Saul. David had the Philistine's head in his hand.

58 Saul asked him, "Whose son are you, young man?" "The son of your servant Jesse of Bethlehem," David answered.