And he said unto them, The LORD is witness against you, and his anointed is witness this day, that ye have not found ought in my hand. And they answered, He is witness.

1 SAMUEL 12:5KJV
truelightbible.com

1 Samuel 12:5 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 12:5 mean?

1 Samuel 12:5 records Samuel declaring before the people of Israel that both the LORD and His anointed (the king) are witnesses that Samuel has not wronged or cheated anyone during his leadership. The people agree, confirming that Samuel is innocent of any wrongdoing.

Samuel is speaking to all Israel at a public gathering, stepping down from his role as judge now that Saul has become king. Samuel calls on the LORD (the personal name for God) and the newly anointed king as witnesses to his honesty and integrity, asking the people to confirm he has not taken anything unjustly. The people’s response affirms Samuel’s blamelessness as a leader.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 12:5

  • LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing that Samuel is appealing to the highest authority as his witness.
  • anointed (מָשִׁיחַ, mashiach): This word refers to the king, Saul, who has just been anointed. By including the king as a witness, Samuel recognizes the new leadership and the transition of authority.
  • witness (עֵד, ed): Used several times in this verse, this word means someone who can testify to the truth of a matter. The repetition underscores the seriousness and formality of Samuel’s declaration.
  • found (מָצָא, matsa): This verb means “to find.” Samuel is asking if anyone has found any fault or wrongdoing in his actions, making his question very concrete and personal.

Why 1 Samuel 12:5 matters

  • This verse clears up any suspicion about Samuel’s leadership, showing that he did not abuse his power or take advantage of the people.
  • It highlights the peaceful and honest transition from Samuel’s leadership as judge to the new era under the monarchy, with Saul as king.
  • The public agreement of the people strengthens Samuel’s legacy and sets a standard for integrity in leadership, both for the people and for the new king.