Theme:
Leaders ask good questions
Business Application:
Ask questions rather than relying on assumptions
Who he was:
The Amalekite was a member of the Amalek tribe, descended from Esau, the twin brother of Jacob, later called Israel. The Amalekites were the Israelites’ nemesis in the desert and appear in battles against King Saul, David’s predecessor. The Amalekite claimed he helped accelerate Saul’s death after he had been mortally wounded. He brought David Saul’s crown and armband, which were symbols of his power. Evidently, the man expected a reward, but instead David had him executed for laying a hand on the late king.
Why his story matters:
David could have justified killing the Amalekite as an enemy combatant. Instead, he asked a series of questions about how he came to possess Saul’s artifacts and how he knew the king was dead. This discovery prompted the man to disclose the part he claimed to play in Saul’s death. As David said, the man was condemned by his own words.
What we can learn from him:
David didn’t rely on prejudice, but rather asked a series of questions to uncover the story. He also communicated a powerful message that Saul was not his enemy, despite his behavior, and that he wanted to honor him. David would not reward bad behavior, even if it favored him.
Where we see his archetype today:
In leaders that know how to ask penetrating questions to uncover information, identify the root cause of issues, and make well-informed decisions.
How we can learn more about him:
The Amalekite’s story is in 2 Samuel 1.