Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from 1 Samuel 28:20. It’s a really powerful moment that shows Saul’s profound fear. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Saul is a King: We know Saul was a very important and powerful king at the time. He was known for being somewhat impulsive and prone to anger. Samuel Intervenes: Samuel, God's messenger, arrives to speak with Saul. Samuel tells him that he’s been spying on Saul – he’s seen him talking to Delilah, a woman who was in a very compromising situation. Saul Falls Down: As Samuel reveals the truth, Saul collapses and falls down from his throne. This is a very dramatic scene! What's Happening - A Simple Explanation: “Then Saul fell straightway”: He immediately fell down. It wasn’t a slow, gradual fall; he fell right away. “All along on the earth”: He was lying face down on the ground. “And was sore afraid…” This is key – he was terrified. He wasn't just startled; he was genuinely overwhelmed by the situation. “…because of the words of Samuel:” This tells us Samuel was telling him the truth. “and there was no strength in him”: He couldn’t think clearly or act decisively. His mind was completely clouded by fear and shame. He felt utterly helpless. “For he had eaten no bread all the day, nor all the night.” This is the really important part. Saul was fasting (not eating) for a long period – almost all day and all night! - before Samuel revealed the truth. This symbolizes a lack of spiritual strength and preparedness. Overall Meaning: The verse shows that Saul’s fear stemmed from a deep shame and a lack of faith. He wasn't just afraid of being caught; he was terrified of his own conscience – because he had been practicing a selfish and wrong way of life. It highlights the importance of being prepared for God's judgment. In short, it’s a story about a king who fell due to fear caused by a lack of spiritual strength. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a larger biblical theme (like repentance)?