1 Samuel 28:24 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 28:24 mean?

1 Samuel 28:24 describes how the woman in the house quickly prepared a meal for Saul and his servants by slaughtering a well-fed calf and baking unleavened bread from flour. This verse shows her hospitality and urgency in serving her unexpected guests.

The scene takes place at the home of the so-called "witch of Endor," whom Saul visits in disguise to seek guidance before a battle. After their encounter, the woman offers Saul food, following the customs of hospitality in ancient Israel. The details about the "fat calf" and "unleavened bread" highlight both the quality and the speed of the meal she provided.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 28:24

• "woman" (אִשָּׁה, ishah): This word simply means "woman" or "wife," and here it refers to the woman of Endor, showing her role as the host in the story.
• "fat" (מְרִיא, meri): This word describes the calf as well-fed or choice, emphasizing that the woman used her best animal for the meal, which was a significant gesture of respect and generosity.
• "unleavened bread" (מַצָּה, matzah): This is bread made without yeast, often baked quickly. Its mention here suggests the urgency of the situation, as there was no time to let bread rise.

Why 1 Samuel 28:24 matters

• The verse highlights the woman's quick and generous hospitality, even toward a stranger, which was a valued practice in ancient cultures.
• The choice of a "fat calf" and the effort to prepare a meal on short notice underline the seriousness of Saul's visit and the woman's respect for her guest.
• This act of hospitality stands in contrast to the tension and fear surrounding Saul's visit to Endor, providing a moment of normal human kindness in a troubling narrative.