This verse, 1 Samuel 9:20, is spoken by the prophet Samuel to Saul shortly before Saul is anointed as the first king of Israel. Let's break down the meaning piece by piece:
"As for your donkeys who were lost three days ago, don’t set your mind on them; for they have been found." Saul was initially on a mission to find his father's lost donkeys. Samuel tells him to stop worrying about the donkeys, because they've already been found. This signifies a shift in Saul's priorities and destiny. He's no longer just a simple farmer's son looking for lost animals; he's about to be thrust into a much larger role. The trivial matter of the donkeys has been resolved, freeing him to focus on what's to come.
"For whom is all that is desirable in Israel? Is it not for you, and for all your father’s house?" This is the crucial part of the verse. It's a somewhat cryptic statement that can be interpreted in a couple of ways:
Potential Kingship: The "desirable" things could refer to the power and authority associated with leadership in Israel. Samuel is hinting that the position of leadership, which the people of Israel have been longing for (desiring), might be destined for Saul and his family. The people have been desiring a king, and Samuel is suggesting that Saul might be that king.
Spoils of Victory: The "desirable" things could also be interpreted as the rewards or spoils that would come from victory over Israel's enemies. If Saul leads Israel to victory, the benefits and honor would go to him and his family.
In essence, Samuel is telling Saul: "Forget about the donkeys. You're destined for something much greater. You have a chance at great leadership and the people are waiting to be lead. Power and glory might be in your future." This is Samuel's way of preparing Saul for the momentous transition he's about to undergo.
This verse, 1 Samuel 9:20, is spoken by the prophet Samuel to Saul shortly before Saul is anointed as the first king of Israel. Let's break down the meaning piece by piece:
"As for your donkeys who were lost three days ago, don’t set your mind on them; for they have been found." Saul was initially on a mission to find his father's lost donkeys. Samuel tells him to stop worrying about the donkeys, because they've already been found. This signifies a shift in Saul's priorities and destiny. He's no longer just a simple farmer's son looking for lost animals; he's about to be thrust into a much larger role. The trivial matter of the donkeys has been resolved, freeing him to focus on what's to come.
"For whom is all that is desirable in Israel? Is it not for you, and for all your father’s house?" This is the crucial part of the verse. It's a somewhat cryptic statement that can be interpreted in a couple of ways:
Potential Kingship: The "desirable" things could refer to the power and authority associated with leadership in Israel. Samuel is hinting that the position of leadership, which the people of Israel have been longing for (desiring), might be destined for Saul and his family. The people have been desiring a king, and Samuel is suggesting that Saul might be that king.
Spoils of Victory: The "desirable" things could also be interpreted as the rewards or spoils that would come from victory over Israel's enemies. If Saul leads Israel to victory, the benefits and honor would go to him and his family.
In essence, Samuel is telling Saul: "Forget about the donkeys. You're destined for something much greater. You have a chance at great leadership and the people are waiting to be lead. Power and glory might be in your future." This is Samuel's way of preparing Saul for the momentous transition he's about to undergo.