And David rose early in the morning and left the sheep with a keeper and took the provisions and went as Jesse had commanded him — David's obedience (*asher tzivvahu Yishai*) is absolute, unquestioning; he does not debate the errand or delay but rises early (*va'yaskemi boqer*), the dawn suggesting spiritual readiness and attentiveness to his father's will. The shepherd left in charge of the flock prefigures David's later role as shepherd of Israel; the care and delegation required for tending sheep becomes a model for the care required of kingship. David's immediate obedience contrasts with Saul's later disobedience regarding Amalek, suggesting a fundamental difference in spiritual orientation.

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