Definition: Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name [was] Kish, the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a mighty man of power.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:1. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising start to a story about God’s choosing a leader for Israel! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is choosing a specific man named Kish from a family line that has a long history of being part of the people of Benjamin. Let’s unpack it further: “Now there was a man of Benjamin…” : This tells us we’re talking about someone connected to the tribe of Benjamin. Benjamin was a significant figure in Israel's early history, known for his leadership and sometimes for conflict. “…whose name [was] Kish…” : This is the key part! The name "Kish" is important because it means “son of Abiel.” And “Abiel” was a leader of the people of Benjamin. So, Kish is the son of Abiel. "...the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah…” : This is a list of names – it’s a family tree! Each name represents a step in a long line of leaders and people connected to Benjamin. It's like tracing back generations. “a Benjamite, a mighty man of power” : This describes Kish as someone who was a powerful and important leader – a “Benjamite” is a tribe within Israel, and “mighty man of power” means he held a significant position. So, the verse essentially says that God has chosen a specific Benjamite named Kish to be the leader of Israel. Why is this significant? This is a pivotal moment because it marks the beginning of a long process where God begins to establish a new leadership for his people. It sets the stage for things to come in the story of the Old Testament! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this verse in more detail (like its historical context)?

Definition: Then said Saul to his servant, Well said; come, let us go. So they went unto the city where the man of God [was].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:10. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious passage in the Bible! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it’s about God choosing a man to be his representative. “Then said Saul…” : This tells us that Saul, one of David’s close friends, was speaking. He was thinking aloud. “…to his servant, Well said; come, let us go.” : Saul is telling his servant to follow him. He’s giving him a task. “Well said” means he thinks it's clever or insightful. “So they went unto the city where the man of God [was].” : This is the key part! "The man of God" refers to King David. It means that Saul and his servant were going to a specific place – a city – where King David was residing. What’s the big picture? This verse shows how God chose to establish a relationship between him and one of his most important figures, David. It's essentially saying God is establishing a special connection with David, not just as a friend, but as someone who holds a significant position in God’s plan. Why is this important? This story is part of a larger pattern in the Bible. It shows that God's plans are often complex and involve people making choices that lead to something bigger than themselves. It’s a sign of God’s sovereignty – His control over everything. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about the story of 1 Samuel 9:10?

Definition: [And] as they went up the hill to the city, they found young maidens going out to draw water, and said unto them, Is the seer here?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this biblical passage. It’s a really interesting and slightly mysterious part of the story of Samuel! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God revealing his plan to establish a covenant with Israel – meaning a special agreement between him and them. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "1 Samuel 9:11 [And] as they went up the hill to the city..." : This tells us the story is happening after the Israelites are in the wilderness, after they’ve been wandering for many years. They're traveling towards the city of Shiloh. "...they found young maidens going out to draw water..." : This describes a scene – young women were working to get water for their homes and communities. It's a simple, everyday activity. "and said unto them, Is the seer here?" - This is the key part. "Seer" in this context refers to God himself. The verse is asking if God is present with these young women. So, what’s the point of this question? It's a way for God to show that He is watching over them and involved in their lives. It’s a gentle reminder that He isn't just distant; He's actively participating in their journey. It suggests a sense of divine providence and care. Why is this significant? This verse is considered one of the most important in the Old Testament. It sets up a crucial moment where God begins to establish a relationship with his people, moving beyond just providing them with food and shelter. It’s a foundational step toward establishing Israel as a nation. In short, it's a beautiful image of God showing His presence and involvement in the lives of those he has chosen. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage further?

Definition: And they answered them, and said, He is; behold, [he is] before you: make haste now, for he came to day to the city; for [there is] a sacrifice of the people to day in the high place:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:12. It's a really important and fascinating passage about God’s relationship with Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is actively moving to the city of Jerusalem – a place of significance for the Israelites – to perform a special act of worship and sacrifice. Let's unpack it word by word: “And they answered them…” - This means the people of Israel were asking God questions, expressing their feelings about him and his plans. “…and said, He is; behold, [he is] before you: make haste now, for he came to day to the city…” – This is the core of the verse. “He is” - This is a direct address to God, acknowledging that He's present. "Before you" - This emphasizes that God is directly coming to them. “Make haste now” - This tells them he’s moving quickly and urgently. “To day” – It’s happening today! Putting it all together: God has decided to visit Jerusalem and perform a significant act of worship. He's not just thinking about it; He is moving to the city to offer a sacrifice. It’s like He’s announcing his arrival and setting something important in motion. Why is this significant? This verse sets the stage for a crucial period in Israel’s history. It signifies that God is establishing a new covenant with them, one where He will be more involved and close to them than ever before. In short, it's a message of divine presence, swift action, and a shift in relationship between God and his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage (like when it happened)? Give you some deeper meaning or interpretation?

Definition: As soon as ye be come into the city, ye shall straightway find him, before he go up to the high place to eat: for the people will not eat until he come, because he doth bless the sacrifice; [and] afterwards they eat that be bidden. Now therefore get you up; for about this time ye shall find him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:13. It's a really important passage in the Bible about God’s plan for Israel and how He chooses who to bless. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: God is intentionally choosing one person – David – to be the leader of Israel, and He’s making sure that person gets a special blessing (a gift) before anyone else does. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “As soon as ye be come into the city…” : This means when David arrives in the city, he’s immediately noticeable. It's like a sign – God is setting him up for attention. “…ye shall straightway find him…” : He will immediately find David. There’s no waiting around; it’s happening right now. “…before he go up to the high place to eat…” : This is a bit of an old-fashioned way of saying "He'll be in the temple." David was usually allowed to have special meals and rituals in the temple, which is where God would bless things. “for the people will not eat until he come…” : The people were hungry and needed a leader who would provide for them. They weren’t going to eat until he arrived. It's like waiting for something important to happen. “…because he doth bless the sacrifice; [and] afterwards they eat that be bidden.” : This is where it gets interesting. God is blessing the sacrifice (the offering) – a special meal – before the people actually get to eat it. It's like He’s preparing something great for them. “Now therefore get you up; for about this time ye shall find him.” : God is telling David to get up and search for him! He wants to see if he’s truly the right person to lead Israel. In a nutshell: God is intentionally setting up a situation where he will be the one who receives a special blessing, and that blessing will be revealed when he arrives in the city. It's a deliberate act of blessing and preparation for a significant event. Why is this important? This verse is often seen as a sign that God has chosen David to be the leader of Israel. It shows how God works in mysterious ways, setting up events before they happen to ensure something good happens. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance in a broader context (like the story of David and Goliath)?

Definition: And they went up into the city: [and] when they were come into the city, behold, Samuel came out against them, for to go up to the high place.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Samuel 9:14. It’s a really important part of God’s plan to establish His people in Israel. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that God sent Moses and his followers up to the city to meet with King Saul. Let’s unpack that a little more: “And they went up into the city…” : This is just a general description of their journey. “…and when they were come into the city, behold, Samuel came out against them…” : This is where it gets interesting. Samuel was God’s appointed leader, and he was actively sending someone to meet with King Saul. He wasn't just passing by; he was deliberately coming to confront Saul. “for to go up to the high place.” : This is a bit more figurative. “High place” likely refers to a specific location – perhaps a temple or a prominent area – where Samuel would have been positioned to deliver a message to King Saul. So, what’s the big deal? This verse sets the stage for a significant conflict. God was preparing to establish His people in Israel. Samuel was sent to try and persuade King Saul to change his ways, which was crucial because Saul was considered a threat to God's plan. It suggests that there would be a challenge between God and humanity! In short, it’s a foreshadowing of a major conflict and a shift in the relationship between God and humanity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this passage might mean in a broader context (like the story of Israel's history)?

Definition: Now the LORD had told Samuel in his ear a day before Saul came, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:15. It's a really important and somewhat mysterious passage that sets up a huge story about God’s plan for Israel. Here’s the simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying God is actively choosing to put David into a special role – a very important one – in the future. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Now the LORD had told Samuel…” : This means that before Saul came, God was already speaking to Samuel about this situation. It’s like God is giving Samuel a heads-up. “…a day before Saul came…” : This tells us that this message wasn't just happening randomly – it was planned and orchestrated by God. It was a specific moment in time. “Saying” : This is the key part! God is speaking to Samuel, revealing his plan. So, what’s the big takeaway? God is choosing David to be a leader and a key figure in Israel. He's essentially saying, "David, you are destined for this role." Why is this significant? This verse is a cornerstone of the story of David becoming king. It explains why God chose him – because he was the one who would eventually lead the people to peace and prosperity. It’s a powerful indication of God's sovereign plan in history. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from 1 Samuel? Discuss the context of this passage (like why it’s important for the story)? Talk about what this verse might mean for us today, relating it back to our own lives or beliefs?

Definition: To morrow about this time I will send thee a man out of the land of Benjamin, and thou shalt anoint him [to be] captain over my people Israel, that he may save my people out of the hand of the Philistines: for I have looked upon my people, because their cry is come unto me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:16. It’s a really significant and somewhat mysterious passage in the Bible! Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God’s decision to send a specific person – a man named Samuel – to lead Israel out of the grip of the Philistines. It’s essentially a promise that God is actively involved and wants to protect his people. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "To morrow about this time I will send thee a man out of the land of Benjamin..." – This tells us when this happens. "Tomorrow about this time" means shortly after this verse is being read. God is setting something in motion. "...and thou shalt anoint him [to be] captain over my people Israel..." - This is a crucial part. “Anoint” means to bless or crown someone. So, God is choosing Samuel to be the leader of Israel. He's officially naming him as their captain. "that he may save my people out of the hand of the Philistines:" – This is the why . The Philistines were a group of people who lived in the area and often harassed the Israelites. God wants to protect Israel from being harmed or controlled by them. “Save” here means to safeguard and protect their well-being. "...for I have looked upon my people, because their cry is come unto me." – This is a very powerful statement. "I have looked upon my people" suggests that God has been observing Israel for a long time, noticing their suffering and distress. The “cry” refers to the prayers and pleas of the Israelites – their need for help and protection. It’s a sign that they are desperate and vulnerable. Overall Meaning: This verse paints a picture of God actively intervening in history to protect his people. He's recognizing Israel's distress, and he is choosing Samuel as a vital figure to take action – to lead them out of a difficult situation with the help of the Philistines. It’s a moment where God’s presence and care are felt most strongly. It’s important to note: The exact context and meaning of this verse are debated among scholars, but it's generally understood as a significant step in God’s plan to establish Israel’s future. --- Do you want me to elaborate on any specific aspect of this verse? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of “Benjamin”? Discuss the role of Samuel in the Old Testament?

Definition: And when Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said unto him, Behold the man whom I spake to thee of! this same shall reign over my people.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:17. It’s a really important and significant passage in the Bible. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God choosing a specific person to be the leader of Israel. It’s saying that God has chosen Samuel as the king – the ruler – of all the Israelites. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And when Samuel saw Saul…” This tells us we’re seeing this happen in the past, with a specific event. It was happening before the time of David. “…the LORD said unto him, Behold the man whom I spake to thee of!” – The Lord is speaking directly to Samuel. “Spake” means “told.” “this same shall reign over my people.” This is the key part! The Lord is saying that Samuel will be the king who leads and rules over all Israelites. It’s a clear statement of God's decision. What does this mean in practical terms? It’s about a divine appointment: God has chosen Samuel to lead Israel, and it wasn’t a random choice – He knows he wants this person to be king. It’s a shift in leadership: Before Samuel, Saul was the king, but God's plan was for someone else to take on that role. This verse marks a significant change in who leads Israel. Why is this important? This event is considered one of the foundational moments in Jewish history and theology. It established the basis for the monarchy in Israel and had a huge impact on the development of Israelite law and governance. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible?

Definition: Then Saul drew near to Samuel in the gate, and said, Tell me, I pray thee, where the seer’s house [is].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:18. It’s a really important piece of history about God's plan! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, Samuel is asking someone to find out the location of the Temple in Jerusalem. Let’s unpack that a little further: “Then Saul…” : This refers to a man named Saul. He was a very important leader in Israel, and he had a serious problem with God. “…Drew near to Samuel…” : Saul is coming closer to Samuel, who was already there. “…in the gate…” : He’s standing at the entrance of the Temple – the main building where God's presence was felt most strongly. “…and said, Tell me, I pray thee, where the seer’s house [is].” : This is the key part. Saul is asking Samuel directly: “Where is the Temple?” He’s feeling a huge sense of unease and questioning God's plan. What does this tell us about Saul? This event happened long before David became king. It shows that Saul was deeply troubled by God’s presence in Jerusalem, and he was struggling to understand why it wasn't happening as he expected. He was feeling like something was wrong with the situation. Why is this important? It’s a crucial moment in the story of Israel’s history because it marks the beginning of Saul’s downfall. He would eventually become very angry and pursue God, leading to his exile from the country. In short: This verse tells us that Saul was seeking to understand why God had chosen to place His presence in Jerusalem, and that this quest led him down a path of conflict. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the significance of this verse in more detail?