1 Samuel 15:10 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 15:10 mean?

1 Samuel 15:10 describes a moment when God communicates directly with the prophet Samuel, delivering a message for him to hear. The verse marks the point where God’s word comes to Samuel, signaling an important announcement or instruction is about to follow.

In the story, Samuel is the prophet who acts as God’s spokesperson to the people of Israel and to their king, Saul. This verse sets up a turning point, as God is about to address Saul’s actions through Samuel. The verse is brief, but it signals that what follows is a direct and significant message from God, highlighting Samuel’s unique role as the one who receives and relays God’s word.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 15:10

• word (דָּבָר, davar): This word often means a message, matter, or command. Here it emphasizes that what Samuel receives is not just information, but an authoritative message from God.
• LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, underscoring that the message comes from the God of Israel, not a generic deity.
• Samuel (שְׁמוּאֵל, Shemuel): Naming Samuel again highlights his role as the chosen prophet who receives God’s instructions.
• saying (אָמַר, amar): This word introduces direct speech, preparing the reader for the exact words God will speak next.

Why 1 Samuel 15:10 matters

• This verse makes it clear that the message Samuel is about to deliver comes directly from God, not from Samuel’s own thoughts or opinions.
• The verse prepares the reader for a significant shift in the story, as God is about to respond to Saul’s earlier actions.
• By highlighting Samuel’s role as the recipient of God’s word, the verse reminds readers of the importance of prophets in Israel’s history as mediators between God and the people.