1 samuel 16:10 - Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel. Samuel said to Jesse, “Yahweh has not chosen these.”

Generated Verse: 1 samuel 16:10

What does "1 samuel 16:10" mean?


This verse, 1 Samuel 16:10, is part of the story where the prophet Samuel is tasked by God (Yahweh) to anoint a new king of Israel from among the sons of Jesse. Saul, the current king, had disobeyed God, so a replacement was needed.

Here's a breakdown of what the verse means:

"Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel." Jesse paraded seven of his sons before Samuel, likely in order of age and perceived suitability for kingship. This was done so Samuel could see them and try to discern which one God had chosen.
"Samuel said to Jesse, 'Yahweh has not chosen these.'" After observing each of the seven sons, Samuel, guided by God, declares that none of them is the one God wants to be the next king. God had rejected all seven of them.

In essence, the verse highlights:

Divine Rejection: It emphasizes that God's choice is not based on outward appearances or human expectations. Even if Jesse thought these sons were suitable, God had other plans.
Samuel's Reliance on God: Samuel is not making a decision based on his own judgment. He is relying on God's guidance to identify the chosen one.
Foreshadowing David: The fact that none of the presented sons were chosen sets the stage for the surprising selection of David, who was the youngest and tending sheep, and was not even initially considered by Jesse. It underscores that God often chooses the unexpected.

The verse sets up the dramatic reveal that the future king is someone considered insignificant and absent at the initial selection process. It's a powerful reminder that God's ways are not our ways.