Question 1

What does 1 Samuel 15:16 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Samuel 15:16 shows the prophet Samuel stopping King Saul and telling him to listen to a message from the LORD that Samuel received the previous night. Saul responds by giving Samuel permission to speak. This verse sets up a serious conversation where Samuel will deliver God’s judgment to Saul. Samuel is speaking directly to Saul after Saul has disobeyed God’s command regarding the Amalekites. The phrase “Stay, and I will tell thee what the LORD hath said to me this night” signals a turning point, as Samuel is about to reveal God’s response to Saul’s actions. Saul’s answer, “Say on,” shows he is willing to listen, but he does not yet know the weight of what Samuel will say.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 15:16

Accepted Answer

“Stay” (רָפָה, raphah) means to stop, relax, or let go. Samuel is telling Saul to pause and pay careful attention, not just to wait. “Tell” (נָגַד, nagad) means to make known or declare. Samuel is about to openly share what God has revealed to him. “LORD” (יְהוָה, YHWH) is the personal name of God, emphasizing that this message comes with full divine authority. “Night” (לַיְלָה, laylah) points out that Samuel received this message recently and directly from God, underlining its urgency and freshness.

Question 3

Why 1 Samuel 15:16 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse marks the moment before Samuel delivers God’s judgment, highlighting the seriousness of Saul’s disobedience. The use of “Stay” shows Samuel taking control of the conversation, making it clear that what follows is not casual advice but a message from God. The verse connects to the larger story of Saul’s kingship, as it introduces the announcement that Saul will be rejected as king for not following God’s command.

1 Samuel 15:16 (KJV)