Definition: Then answered one of the people, and said, Thy father straitly charged the people with an oath, saying, Cursed [be] the man that eateth [any] food this day. And the people were faint.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 14:28. It’s a really significant moment in David’s story and it speaks about a tricky situation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: David is facing a serious threat: David was a young man, but he was being pursued by the army of Absalom (his brother). He was feeling very anxious and worried about his safety. Absalom’s Father Orders a Curse: Absalom’s father, who is a powerful and influential man, orders David to be cursed. This isn't a playful or angry order; it’s a formal, serious command. He wants to make sure David doesn’t eat anything that could bring trouble. The People Are Faint: The people are terrified and overwhelmed by this command. They’re so shocked and frightened that they are practically paralyzed with fear – “faint.” What's Happening - A Quick Explanation of the Story: David, feeling desperate to escape the threat, decides to trick Absalom's father into believing that he doesn’t want to eat anything. He does this by leading Absalom's father to a field where he has a large pile of food – including delicious fruits and vegetables. He then tells the father that David doesn’t want to eat anything, so he will go elsewhere. The Key Takeaway: This verse highlights a moment of manipulation and deception . David is using his cunning and intelligence to avoid a confrontation with his enemies. It shows a willingness to bend the rules in order to protect himself. Important Note: It’s important to understand that this wasn't about really cursing someone. It was a strategic move to create a situation where Absalom's father would lose interest and let David go free. --- Do you want me to explain anything in more detail, perhaps focusing on the context of the story or the meaning behind the word "trick"? Just let me know!