This verse from 1 Samuel 9:19 is packed with information and reveals several key things about the relationship between Samuel and Saul at this pivotal moment in the story of Israel:
"Samuel answered Saul, and said, 'I am the seer.'" This is a direct and important revelation. Saul and his servant are searching for his father's lost donkeys and have been directed to Samuel, a man of God. Samuel explicitly identifies himself as "the seer" (Hebrew: ro'eh). A seer was a prophet who could perceive things hidden from ordinary people, often receiving divine messages. This statement establishes Samuel's authority and supernatural abilities to Saul.
"Go up before me to the high place, for you are to eat with me today." Samuel invites Saul to accompany him to the "high place." High places were locations, often elevated, where sacrifices and worship were offered. While later condemned, in this early period, they were common sites for religious practices. The invitation to eat with Samuel is significant. Eating together implied fellowship, hospitality, and a degree of honor being bestowed upon Saul. It also sets the stage for a more private conversation.
"In the morning I will let you go, and will tell you all that is in your heart." This is the most intriguing part of the verse. Samuel promises to reveal to Saul "all that is in your heart" before he departs. This again highlights Samuel's prophetic ability and suggests that Saul has anxieties, questions, or desires that Samuel will address. This promise fuels Saul's curiosity and further solidifies Samuel's authority. It suggests Saul's future role is not simply about finding lost donkeys but something far grander.
In essence, this verse is the moment Samuel reveals himself as a prophet to Saul, invites him to a communal meal, and promises to disclose something significant about Saul's destiny. It is a critical turning point in the narrative, marking the beginning of Saul's unexpected journey to becoming the first king of Israel.
It's worth noting that the "all that is in your heart" may refer not only to Saul's personal thoughts and concerns but also, more importantly, to God's intentions regarding Saul's future role as king.
This verse from 1 Samuel 9:19 is packed with information and reveals several key things about the relationship between Samuel and Saul at this pivotal moment in the story of Israel:
"Samuel answered Saul, and said, 'I am the seer.'" This is a direct and important revelation. Saul and his servant are searching for his father's lost donkeys and have been directed to Samuel, a man of God. Samuel explicitly identifies himself as "the seer" (Hebrew: ro'eh). A seer was a prophet who could perceive things hidden from ordinary people, often receiving divine messages. This statement establishes Samuel's authority and supernatural abilities to Saul.
"Go up before me to the high place, for you are to eat with me today." Samuel invites Saul to accompany him to the "high place." High places were locations, often elevated, where sacrifices and worship were offered. While later condemned, in this early period, they were common sites for religious practices. The invitation to eat with Samuel is significant. Eating together implied fellowship, hospitality, and a degree of honor being bestowed upon Saul. It also sets the stage for a more private conversation.
"In the morning I will let you go, and will tell you all that is in your heart." This is the most intriguing part of the verse. Samuel promises to reveal to Saul "all that is in your heart" before he departs. This again highlights Samuel's prophetic ability and suggests that Saul has anxieties, questions, or desires that Samuel will address. This promise fuels Saul's curiosity and further solidifies Samuel's authority. It suggests Saul's future role is not simply about finding lost donkeys but something far grander.
In essence, this verse is the moment Samuel reveals himself as a prophet to Saul, invites him to a communal meal, and promises to disclose something significant about Saul's destiny. It is a critical turning point in the narrative, marking the beginning of Saul's unexpected journey to becoming the first king of Israel.
It's worth noting that the "all that is in your heart" may refer not only to Saul's personal thoughts and concerns but also, more importantly, to God's intentions regarding Saul's future role as king.