And as they were going down to the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul, Bid the servant pass on before us,(and he passed on,) but stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee the word of God.
1 SAMUEL 9:27KJVWhat does 1 Samuel 9:27 mean?
1 Samuel 9:27 shows Samuel asking Saul to send his servant ahead so they can speak privately, because Samuel wants to share God’s message with Saul. This moment sets up an important, private conversation where Samuel will reveal God’s plans to Saul.
Samuel, a respected prophet, is walking with Saul as they leave the city. Samuel tells Saul to let the servant go on ahead, which the servant does, leaving the two men alone. Samuel then asks Saul to stop and listen, because Samuel is about to deliver a message from God, marking a turning point in Saul’s life.
The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 9:27
- דָּבָר (davar, "word"): This word means "word," "matter," or "message." Here, it refers to the specific message or instruction from God that Samuel is about to share with Saul, highlighting the seriousness and authority of what is coming.
- שָׁמַע (shama‘, "shew" in KJV, more literally "hear" or "listen"): The verb used means "to hear" or "to listen," suggesting that Samuel is not just telling Saul information but expects him to pay close attention and take it to heart.
Why 1 Samuel 9:27 matters
- This verse marks the moment Saul is set apart for a special revelation, showing that what follows is significant and meant for him alone.
- The privacy Samuel requests emphasizes the importance and personal nature of God’s message to Saul, preparing the reader for Saul’s anointing as Israel’s first king in the next chapter.
- The verse highlights the role of a prophet as someone who delivers God’s word directly and personally, not just publicly.