He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail.

1 SAMUEL 2:9KJV
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1 Samuel 2:9 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 2:9 mean?

1 Samuel 2:9 says that God protects those who are devoted to Him, while those who do evil will be left helpless and without hope. The verse also stresses that human strength alone is not enough to succeed; true security comes from God.

This verse is spoken by Hannah as part of her prayer after God answered her request for a child. She is praising God’s power to care for the faithful and to bring down the proud or wicked. The verse highlights the contrast between God’s protection for the “saints” and the fate of the “wicked,” showing that God—not human effort—decides the outcome of people’s lives.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 2:9

  • "keep" (שָׁמַר, shamar): This word means to guard, watch over, or protect. Here, it emphasizes God’s active care for His people, not just passive observation.
  • "saints" (חָסִיד, chasid): This word refers to those who are faithful, loyal, or devoted to God. It carries the sense of someone who lives in a way that pleases God, not just anyone who is religious.
  • "silent" (דָּמַם, damam): This word means to be still, silent, or dumb. In this context, it suggests that the wicked will be left powerless and unable to respond or defend themselves.
  • "strength" (כֹּחַ, koach): This word means physical power or ability. The verse points out that no amount of human ability can guarantee success apart from God’s will.
  • "prevail" (גָּבַר, gavar): This word means to overcome or be victorious. The verse is clear that victory does not come from human effort alone.

Why 1 Samuel 2:9 matters

  • 1 Samuel 2:9 clarifies that God’s care is not just for the powerful or important, but for those who are faithful to Him, regardless of their status.
  • The verse challenges the common belief that personal strength or effort is enough to secure success, highlighting the need for dependence on God.
  • This verse fits into Hannah’s larger prayer, which celebrates God’s ability to reverse fortunes—lifting up the humble and bringing down the proud—setting the tone for the rest of 1 Samuel.

Where else these words appear

“prevail” Hebrew H1396 · used in 24 verses

  • Genesis 7:18 And the waters prevailed, and were increased greatly upon the earth; and the ark went upon the face of the waters.
  • 2 Samuel 11:23 And the messenger said unto David, Surely the men prevailed against us, and came out unto us into the field, and we were upon them even unto the entering of the gate.
  • Psalms 117:2 For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever. Praise ye the LORD.

“silent” Hebrew H1826 · used in 29 verses

  • Exodus 15:16 Fear and dread shall fall upon them; by the greatness of thine arm they shall be as still as a stone; till thy people pass over, O LORD, till the people pass over, which thou hast purchased.
  • Psalms 30:12 To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.
  • Jeremiah 47:6 O thou sword of the LORD, how long will it be ere thou be quiet? put up thyself into thy scabbard, rest, and be still.

“saints” Hebrew H2623 · used in 32 verses

  • Deuteronomy 33:8 And of Levi he said, Let thy Thummim and thy Urim be with thy holy one, whom thou didst prove at Massah, and with whom thou didst strive at the waters of Meribah;
  • Psalms 37:28 For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off.
  • Psalms 132:9 Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness; and let thy saints shout for joy.

“darkness” Hebrew H2822 · used in 77 verses

  • Genesis 1:2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
  • Job 20:26 All darkness shall be hid in his secret places: a fire not blown shall consume him; it shall go ill with him that is left in his tabernacle.
  • Ecclesiastes 5:17 All his days also he eateth in darkness, and he hath much sorrow and wrath with his sickness.