Saul’s unexpected meeting with the prophet marks the beginning of his journey to the throne.
Samuel the judge and prophet of Israel (circa 1085-1017 BC) meets Saul (who will become Israel’s first king around 1047 BC), declaring, “I am the seer. Go up before me to the high place, for you shall eat with me today; and in the morning I will let you go, and will tell you all that is on your mind” (1 Samuel 9:19). By referring to himself as the “seer,” Samuel identifies his role as the one entrusted to convey God’s messages and guidance. The invitation “Go up before me to the high place” signals the religious significance of worship sites in ancient Israel, which were often located on hills or raised platforms. At this time in Israel’s history, such locations were legitimate places of sacrifice and communion with God, predating the central place of worship later established under King David and King Solomon.
In this single verse, Samuel graciously extends hospitality to Saul, offering him a meal and fellowship. He also hints that on the following morning he will disclose divine insight concerning Saul’s concerns—that is, the hidden matters on Saul’s heart (including the lost donkeys that Saul had been searching for, as well as Saul’s unexpected calling to govern Israel). This exchange sets the stage for Saul’s subsequent anointing, marking a major transition in Israel’s leadership and moving them from the era of the judges into a monarchy. Samuel’s words emphasize that he himself is a messenger of the LORD, prepared to reveal the will of God to this unsuspecting Benjamite, guiding him toward his divine appointment as king.
This encounter also underscores that God, through His prophet, knows the hearts of His people and orchestrates events for His purposes. By inviting Saul to receive hospitality and instruction at the high place, Samuel not only conveys the LORD’s approval and guidance but also demonstrates that the LORD Himself is orchestrating Israel’s destiny, choosing someone to be king according to His plan.
Set to dark mode
1 Samuel 9:19 meaning
Samuel the judge and prophet of Israel (circa 1085-1017 BC) meets Saul (who will become Israel’s first king around 1047 BC), declaring, “I am the seer. Go up before me to the high place, for you shall eat with me today; and in the morning I will let you go, and will tell you all that is on your mind” (1 Samuel 9:19). By referring to himself as the “seer,” Samuel identifies his role as the one entrusted to convey God’s messages and guidance. The invitation “Go up before me to the high place” signals the religious significance of worship sites in ancient Israel, which were often located on hills or raised platforms. At this time in Israel’s history, such locations were legitimate places of sacrifice and communion with God, predating the central place of worship later established under King David and King Solomon.
In this single verse, Samuel graciously extends hospitality to Saul, offering him a meal and fellowship. He also hints that on the following morning he will disclose divine insight concerning Saul’s concerns—that is, the hidden matters on Saul’s heart (including the lost donkeys that Saul had been searching for, as well as Saul’s unexpected calling to govern Israel). This exchange sets the stage for Saul’s subsequent anointing, marking a major transition in Israel’s leadership and moving them from the era of the judges into a monarchy. Samuel’s words emphasize that he himself is a messenger of the LORD, prepared to reveal the will of God to this unsuspecting Benjamite, guiding him toward his divine appointment as king.
This encounter also underscores that God, through His prophet, knows the hearts of His people and orchestrates events for His purposes. By inviting Saul to receive hospitality and instruction at the high place, Samuel not only conveys the LORD’s approval and guidance but also demonstrates that the LORD Himself is orchestrating Israel’s destiny, choosing someone to be king according to His plan.