And the cook took up the shoulder, and that which was upon it, and set it before Saul. And Samuel said, Behold that which is left! set it before thee, and eat: for unto this time hath it been kept for thee since I said, I have invited the people. So Saul did eat with Samuel that day.

1 SAMUEL 9:24KJV
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1 Samuel 9:24 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 9:24 mean?

1 Samuel 9:24 describes how the cook brought out a special portion of meat, the shoulder, and placed it before Saul at Samuel’s instruction. Samuel tells Saul that this portion was set aside for him and encourages him to eat, explaining that it had been reserved for this moment when Saul was invited among the people.

Samuel, the prophet, is hosting Saul at a meal after inviting him to a sacrificial feast. Samuel directs the cook to give Saul the choicest part of the meat, which had been specially kept for him, signaling honor and significance. This scene quietly marks Saul as someone chosen for a special purpose, hinting at his soon-to-be-revealed role as Israel’s first king.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 9:24

  • שׁוֹק (shoq, “shoulder”): This word refers to the upper leg or thigh portion, often considered an honorable or special part in sacrificial meals. Giving this to Saul signals respect and a set-apart status.
  • שָׁמַר (shamar, “kept”): This verb means to guard or keep. Samuel says the portion was “kept” for Saul, highlighting that Saul’s presence was anticipated and that this event was prepared in advance for him.
  • מוֹעֵד (mo’ed, “time”): This word often means an appointed time or meeting. Samuel’s use of it suggests that Saul’s arrival and this meal were not random but part of a planned, significant occasion.

Why 1 Samuel 9:24 matters

  • This verse shows Saul being honored in a public setting before he knows he will be king, helping readers see how God’s plans unfold quietly and intentionally.
  • The act of reserving the best portion for Saul emphasizes Samuel’s awareness of Saul’s future role and God’s guidance in the selection process.
  • Understanding the cultural meaning of the “shoulder” portion and the idea of an “appointed time” helps clarify how deliberate and meaningful Samuel’s actions are, rather than them being a simple act of hospitality.