1 samuel 28:22 - Now therefore, please listen also to the voice of your servant, and let me set a morsel of bread before you. Eat, that you may have strength, when you go on your way.”

Generated Verse: 1 samuel 28:22

What does "1 samuel 28:22" mean?


This verse is part of the story of Saul's desperation as he seeks guidance before a battle with the Philistines. He's just consulted a medium at Endor (against God's law), who has summoned the spirit of Samuel. After a terrifying experience, Saul is shaken and weak.

Here's a breakdown of what the verse means:

"Now therefore, please listen also to the voice of your servant..." This is the woman, the medium of Endor, speaking to Saul. After the frightening apparition of Samuel, she's trying to soothe him and offer practical help. She acknowledges his higher status as king ("your servant") and humbles herself to him.

"...and let me set a morsel of bread before you." She's offering him food. "Morsel of bread" suggests a small amount, but it represents a basic necessity to restore his energy. It's an act of hospitality and kindness.

"Eat, that you may have strength, when you go on your way.” This is the purpose of her offer. She recognizes he needs physical strength for whatever lies ahead. "When you go on your way" acknowledges that he has a journey and difficult situation to face. She wants to help him be prepared, even after the unpleasantness of the seance.

In essence, the verse illustrates:

Simple kindness in a difficult situation: Even after participating in something forbidden, the woman shows compassion and wants to help Saul's physical well-being.
The reality of physical needs: Despite Saul's spiritual crisis and the appearance of Samuel, he still needs basic sustenance.
Saul's desperation: He's vulnerable and willing to accept help from someone he normally wouldn't, highlighting how far he's fallen from his reliance on God.
The contrast between the spiritual and the physical: The medium has just conjured a spirit from the dead, but now she's offering bread – a reminder that even in the realm of the supernatural, earthly needs persist.

This seemingly simple offer of food is laden with context and reveals the complex character of Saul and the situation he finds himself in.

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