1 Samuel 28:20 meaning
In a moment of utter despair, Saul turned to a witch for counsel, desperately seeking guidance from the deceased prophet Samuel. This encounter signifies Saul's tragic fall from favor with God, highlighting his alienation from divine wisdom and his futile attempts to glean assurance from a source condemned by the Law. The text portrays Saul as a king who, pressed by fear and hopelessness, resorted to extreme measures that would ultimately seal his fate. “Then Saul fell straightway all along on the earth, and was sore afraid, because of the words of Samuel: and there was no strength in him; for he had eaten no bread all the day, nor all the night.” (1 Samuel 28:20).
The narrative emphasizes the psychological and spiritual torment Saul endured upon hearing Samuel's grim prophecy of his imminent death. Instead of seeking repentance and returning to God, his fear immobilized him. The involvement of the medium also highlights a profound reversal of spiritual order—where the king sought guidance from the very practices he once eradicated. This account serves as a cautionary tale about the dire consequences of ignoring God and the desperation that ensues from turning away from divine counsel.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Matthew 26:6-13 meaning. When Jesus is in the home of Simon the leper, a woman anoints His head with expensive perfume. The disciples see this as a waste of money and resources. Jesus informs them that she has done a good thing and that it prepares His body for burial. This event is commonly referred to as "Jesus's Anointing at Bethany."
- Jonah 2:6b-9 meaning. The LORD delivers Jonah from the sea when Jonah prayed to Him. Now Jonah gives a testimony of his deliverance and promises to pay the vows he made.
- Matthew 26:39 meaning. In the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus prays to His Father. He asks for another way to be made for Him to complete His mission of saving the world that would not require Him to suffer and die. But having made this request, Jesus tells His Father that He will submit to His will.
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