Definition: And the cook took up the shoulder, and [that] which [was] upon it, and set [it] before Saul. And [Samuel] said, Behold that which is left! set [it] before thee, [and] eat: for unto this time hath it been kept for thee since I said, I have invited the people. So Saul did eat with Samuel that day.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from 1 Samuel 9:24. It’s a really significant moment in the story of God’s choice of David to be King of Israel. Here’s what it means, explained simply: Basically, God is giving David a special responsibility – he’s being appointed as the king. Here's a breakdown of the key parts: “And the cook took up the shoulder…”: This describes a ritual where a symbolic item is placed on top of a large, heavy pot. Think of it like a crown or a symbol of authority. “…and [that] which [was] upon it, and set [it] before Saul.”: A significant object – likely a piece of cloth or a small offering – was placed on the pot. And God is placing this item before King David. This signifies that God is choosing him to be king. “And [Samuel] said, Behold that which is left! set [it] before thee, [and] eat: for unto this time hath it been kept for thee since I said, I have invited the people.”: This is a crucial part. A man named Samuel, who was God’s messenger, says, "Look! This remains! Place it before you, and eat – because it has been kept for you since I told you to invite the people." What does this all mean in terms of biblical context? God's Favor: This is a very powerful moment. It shows God is choosing someone specifically for a great purpose. David’s Role: It establishes David as the one God has chosen to be king. He’s being given this special position and responsibility. A Promise: The phrase "unto this time hath it been kept for thee since I said" suggests that God is keeping something important for David, and that he will eventually fulfill his role as King. In short, this verse describes a deliberate placement of an item – symbolizing authority – before King David to demonstrate that God has chosen him to be the king. --- Do you have any specific questions about this passage that I can answer? For example, would you like me to: Explain its significance in the larger story of the Old Testament? Discuss what this verse might mean for David’s future role as King?