Definition: The Hebrew noun form for "Samuel" is "Samarim". This Hebrew name means "son of Samaria," referring to a king from Samaria who lived about 650-593 BCE. The word was used in several different ways, as follows: 1. "Samuel" is often used as a title or honorific for someone named Samuel. It can also be used more literally to refer to someone who was born in the city of Samaria, which would have been located on the Mediterranean coast. 2. In some stories and narratives from the Bible, Samuel (as a character) may be referred to as "Samuel." This is often done to emphasize the importance or authority of the individual. For example, in King David's reign, it seems that Samuel was responsible for establishing his kingdom over Israel. 3. The term "Samuel" can also be used in various poetic contexts, such as a poem about a hero, an epic, a song, or even to describe a person with special significance. In summary, the word "Samarim" is often used in Old Testament stories and narratives to refer to a king who lived in Samaria. It may also be used figuratively to honor someone who was born in Samaria, but it can also be used as a title or honorific for a person named Samuel.

(in the Bible) Samuel

Definition: Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured [it] upon his head, and kissed him, and said, [Is it] not because the LORD hath anointed thee [to be] captain over his inheritance?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Samuel 10:1. It’s a really significant moment in Samuel’s life and has huge implications for the story of David! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a very special ritual – a anointing – that Samuel performed on David when he was young. It's essentially a symbolic blessing and confirmation that God has chosen him to be the leader of Israel. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Then Samuel took a vial of oil…” - This is the starting point – Samuel was pouring something precious into David's head. “…and poured [it] upon his head…” - He was using holy oil, representing God’s presence and blessing. It was like a sacred ritual. “…and kissed him…” - This is crucial! He kissed David. It wasn't just a casual touch; it was a gesture of affirmation and love. “And said, [Is it] not because the LORD hath anointed thee [to be] captain over his inheritance?” – This is where the real meaning comes in. “The LORD hath anointed thee”: This is a fancy way of saying "God has blessed you" or “God has chosen you.” It’s a powerful statement of God's favor and trust in David. “[Is it] not because…” - This asks a question: "Is this really happening?" So, what does it mean ? It means that God is officially recognizing David as the leader – the captain over Israel. He’s choosing him to lead and guide his people. The act of kissing David was a visible sign of this divine appointment. Why is this important? This event was incredibly significant in the Old Testament because it marked the beginning of David's leadership role. It established that God had a plan for David, and he would become the king God chose him to be. --- In short, this verse speaks of God’s blessing and trust in David, officially declaring him as the leader of Israel. Do you want me to: Explain another part of 1 Samuel? Discuss the significance of anointing rituals in ancient times?

Definition: And when they came thither to the hill, behold, a company of prophets met him; and the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 10:10. It's a really important passage in the Bible that speaks about a significant moment in Samuel’s life and the beginning of a new era. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: Samuel was in a place with a group of people – likely during a time of crisis or difficulty – and God showed up to him. Let's unpack that a little further: “When they came thither to the hill…” - This means Samuel was traveling or visiting a specific location, probably a hilltop or a place of significance. The word “thither” suggests he was moving towards this spot. “…a company of prophets met him…” – "Prophets" are people who speak with God on behalf of the community. This verse specifically mentions a group of people – prophets . This is a key part, as prophets were important in ancient Israel and often had a special relationship with God. “…and the Spirit of God came upon him…” - This is the really important part! The Bible says that God actively intervened and gave him a powerful gift – the Spirit of God. It's like God directly touched Samuel, influencing his words and actions. So, what’s happening? This verse describes a moment where God is communicating with Samuel through his prophets. It’s a sign that things were changing and that God was actively involved in Samuel's life. It suggests that Samuel was being guided and empowered by divine presence. Why is this important? It shows God’s active involvement: The verse emphasizes that God isn't just observing things; He’s directly participating in the events happening. It marks a turning point: The arrival of the Spirit of God signifies a shift – perhaps a time of judgment, or a period of spiritual awakening for Samuel and his people. In short, this verse is about God's presence and power working through a group of prophets to influence a leader like Samuel. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Connect it to a particular biblical story or event?

Definition: And it came to pass, when all that knew him beforetime saw that, behold, he prophesied among the prophets, then the people said one to another, What [is] this [that] is come unto the son of Kish? [Is] Saul also among the prophets?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Samuel 10:11. It’s a really significant moment in Samuel’s life and has major implications for how things would unfold later. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Samuel was a prophet. Samuel was known for speaking out, offering guidance, and sometimes even challenging the established religious leaders of Israel. He was a powerful figure in the early days of the kingdom. He’s prophesying about Saul. Samuel was speaking to a group of prophets – people who were already familiar with him as a prophet. He was saying something important: he was predicting that Saul, one of the kings, would be brought before them and revealed as a prophet. What's Happening in the Verse: “And it came to pass…” This is just an introductory phrase – it’s setting up a story about to unfold. “…when all that knew him beforetime saw that, behold…” This means everyone who had known Samuel – including his family and friends – were watching this event unfold. “Beforetime” refers to the past. “…he prophesied among the prophets.” Samuel was speaking and sharing this prediction with the other prophets. “Then the people said one to another, What [is] this [that] is come unto the son of Kish?” This is the core of the message. The people are asking: “What is happening? What's the reason for this?” They’re trying to understand why Samuel is speaking about Saul. The Meaning – It’s About a Shift in Authority: The key takeaway here is that Samuel was challenging the authority of the established religious leaders. Saul was a king. Saul was a powerful and influential king, appointed by God. Samuel's prophecy pointed to Saul being brought before the prophets. This meant Samuel was suggesting that Saul would be presented as a prophet – meaning he would receive divine guidance and revelation. It was a subtle but significant challenge to the existing power structure. Why is this important? This passage is considered one of the very first instances where Samuel’s prophetic abilities were recognized and used to influence events. It's a foundational moment in understanding how Samuel’s role evolved and eventually led to his downfall. --- In short, the verse describes a moment when Samuel’s prophecy about Saul became a point of discussion and questioning, setting the stage for a significant shift in power within Israel. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to other biblical stories or themes?

Definition: And one of the same place answered and said, But who [is] their father? Therefore it became a proverb, [Is] Saul also among the prophets?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from 1 Samuel 10:12. It’s a really interesting and slightly unsettling verse! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about a problem with Saul, one of the kings of Israel, and it highlights a sense of confusion and doubt. Essentially, it's saying that Saul was confused about who his father was. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And one of the same place answered…” – This refers to someone (likely an angel or a spiritual being) speaking to Saul. “…and said, But who [is] their father?” – The person is asking, "Who is his father?" This is the core of the problem. “Therefore it became a proverb, [Is] Saul also among the prophets?” – This is the key part. Because Saul was so confused, this answer led to a saying or proverb. It suggests that his confusion and lack of understanding made him vulnerable to being associated with the prophets – people who were seen as messengers of God but often had their own interpretations. What's the Big Picture? This verse is important because it shows: Political Instability: It’s a moment where Saul’s leadership and his relationship with the prophets became strained. Questioning Authority: It suggests that Saul was struggling with faith, and this struggle could lead to doubt about who he was really connected to. Why is it significant? This story isn't just about a king; it's about a leader being challenged by his own doubts. It’s a reminder that even the most powerful people can be vulnerable to confusion and that it can have consequences for those around them. In short, the verse highlights a moment of uncertainty and suggests that Saul might have been drawn into a situation where he was associated with others who held different beliefs. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Give you a related story or example from the Bible?

Definition: And when he had made an end of prophesying, he came to the high place.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 10:13. It’s a really important part of understanding David’s actions and how God saw him. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, David was finishing speaking or prophesying (predicting the future). Then he went to a specific place – a high point – to finish his work. Let’s unpack that a little further: “When he had made an end of prophesying…” This means David was done with his lengthy speeches, pronouncements, and visions. He was finished with the talking about what was going to happen. “…he came to the high place.” “High place” in this context refers to a location – likely a temple or a significant building – that offered a good view of the city. It’s a place of authority and importance. The Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a sign of David's growing holiness and obedience to God. It suggests: He was serious about his message: He wasn't just talking; he was actively communicating with God. He was seeking God’s approval: Going to a high place meant he was acknowledging that his words were important and worthy of God’s attention. He was demonstrating his commitment: It shows he was taking his role as a prophet seriously, putting his work in the right place. In short, it's a moment of deliberate action signifying David’s dedication to God. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with different interpretations? Give you more context about what was happening around that time? Connect this verse to another Bible story or concept?

Definition: And Saul’s uncle said unto him and to his servant, Whither went ye? And he said, To seek the asses: and when we saw that [they were] no where, we came to Samuel.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 10:14. It's a really important piece of history! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Saul is Missing: The verse tells us that King Saul was missing. He had left the palace and was traveling with his servant, David, to find some horses. David's Concern: David’s servant, who’s named “Samuel,” worried about Saul. He asked them, "Where did he go?" Saul's Response: Saul responded that he and his servant were going to find the horses. He was looking for them! Putting it Together - A Quick Summary: Basically, David was trying to find Saul’s horses because Saul had left without them. They realized he wasn't there and started searching for him. Why is this important? This event is a key moment in the story of Samuel. It shows: David's Concern: David was worried about his king, Saul, and his safety. The Beginning of a Problem: This sets up a chain of events that leads to the fall of Saul. Essentially, it’s a simple narrative about a search for horses and the beginning of a significant crisis in the story. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context around this event in the Bible?

Definition: And Saul’s uncle said, Tell me, I pray thee, what Samuel said unto you.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 10:15. It's a really interesting and slightly mysterious part of the story! Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about someone trying to understand a conversation that happened between Saul (a powerful king) and his uncle. What Happened? Saul was having a problem – he was feeling confused and worried about something. His uncle, who was likely a trusted advisor, asked him directly, “Tell me, I pray thee, what Samuel said unto you?” Meaning in Plain Language: Essentially, Saul’s uncle was trying to get a clear explanation of a conversation that happened between Saul and Samuel. It's like asking someone to repeat something exactly, but with a little extra weight because it’s significant! Why is this important? This verse sets the stage for a larger story. It suggests: A Secret: There was a secret conversation happening that Saul needed to understand. Importance of Samuel: Samuel was a very important figure in the Bible, known for his wisdom and guidance. His words were valued. Potential Conflict: The fact that Saul was asking this question implies there might be tension or disagreement between him and his uncle. In short, it's a snapshot of a moment where someone wanted to know more about a crucial conversation. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of the story? Talk about the significance of Samuel?

Definition: And Saul said unto his uncle, He told us plainly that the asses were found. But of the matter of the kingdom, whereof Samuel spake, he told him not.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 10:16 together. It's a really important part of understanding how Saul handled a situation and why he was so troubled. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Samuel was telling about a problem with the king. Samuel had been talking about a specific issue – a problem with the king’s advisors that was causing trouble. Saul, Samuel's uncle, asked him to confirm this problem. Saul, who was a powerful and influential figure, asked Samuel to tell him definitively if the problem really existed. Saul didn't say anything about the kingdom. This is the crucial part. He refused to share any information about the bigger picture – about the entire kingdom of Israel and what Samuel was trying to accomplish. What it’s saying: This verse shows Saul being secretive and unwilling to share important information. He was prioritizing his own concerns and protecting his own position, even if it meant keeping a secret. Possible Interpretations (it's not always straightforward): He was worried about the king. Perhaps Samuel was worried about the king’s actions or decisions that might affect his own power or influence. He was trying to maintain control. Saul may have been trying to keep the situation under wraps, perhaps because he feared it would undermine his position or reveal secrets he wanted to keep secret. It's a sign of his pride and stubbornness. The verse hints at a deeper issue – a reluctance to share responsibility and acknowledge the bigger picture. In essence, this verse highlights Saul's tendency to be secretive and focused on protecting himself, even when it means withholding vital information. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from 1 Samuel? Discuss a specific aspect of this passage (like its historical context)?

Definition: And Samuel called the people together unto the LORD to Mizpeh;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 10:17. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious part of the story of Samuel! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, Samuel was calling people together to worship God. Let’s unpack that a little further: “Samuel called…” – This tells us who is doing the calling. It’s Samuel, the leader of Israel. “…the people together…” – He's gathering everyone – not just a small group, but the whole nation. “…unto the LORD…” – This is the key part! “The Lord” refers to God. He’s calling them to Him. “…to Mizpeh…” – Now this is where it gets interesting. “Mizpeh” is a Hebrew word that means "judgment" or "evaluation." So, Samuel was asking people to come to the Lord and evaluate their lives, their choices, and how they're behaving in light of God’s judgment. What’s the significance? This verse points to a very important concept in ancient Israel: God is watching over us and judging our actions. It suggests that God isn't just concerned with what we do, but also how we do it. He wants to see if we are righteous and pleasing to Him. Think of it like this: It’s a reminder that God is constantly evaluating us and that He's interested in our spiritual growth and obedience. --- Do you want me to: Explain the context of this verse within the larger story of Samuel? Discuss what “Mizpeh” might symbolize? Give you a little more background on ancient Israel and their religious practices?