This verse from 1 Samuel 9:7 captures a moment of practicality and respect (or perhaps political savvy) from Saul. Let's break down what it means:
"Then Saul said to his servant, 'But, behold, if we go, what should we bring the man?'" - Saul is about to go see the "man of God" (who we later learn is Samuel, a prophet). He's wondering what kind of offering or gift they should bring as a gesture of respect or perhaps to ensure a favorable reception. It was customary to bring a gift when seeking counsel from a prophet or someone perceived to have a special connection to God.
"For the bread is spent in our sacks..." - They are running low on supplies. Their bread (a staple food) is almost gone. They don't have enough to spare.
"...and there is not a present to bring to the man of God." - They don't have a suitable gift, either monetary or in goods, to give to the prophet. It highlights their situation of being without resources.
"What do we have?'" - Saul is essentially asking his servant to take inventory, to think about if there's anything at all that could be used as a gift. He's trying to find a solution to the problem of going empty-handed.
In essence, this verse reveals:
Saul's understanding of custom: He knew it was common to offer a gift when seeking help or guidance from a religious figure.
Their humble circumstances: It suggests they are not wealthy or traveling with an abundance of provisions.
Saul's practical problem-solving: He wants to do the right thing but is facing a logistical challenge.
Foreshadowing: The fact that they are going on this seemingly simple errand will lead to a life-changing encounter for Saul.
This sets the stage for the rest of the story, highlighting that Saul's encounter with Samuel is not something he planned, but rather a consequence of trying to find lost donkeys and then figuring out how to approach the "man of God" they were told could help. It also highlights a certain humility (or perhaps lack of confidence) in Saul, as he seems unsure of himself and dependent on his servant's input.
This verse from 1 Samuel 9:7 captures a moment of practicality and respect (or perhaps political savvy) from Saul. Let's break down what it means:
"Then Saul said to his servant, 'But, behold, if we go, what should we bring the man?'" - Saul is about to go see the "man of God" (who we later learn is Samuel, a prophet). He's wondering what kind of offering or gift they should bring as a gesture of respect or perhaps to ensure a favorable reception. It was customary to bring a gift when seeking counsel from a prophet or someone perceived to have a special connection to God.
"For the bread is spent in our sacks..." - They are running low on supplies. Their bread (a staple food) is almost gone. They don't have enough to spare.
"...and there is not a present to bring to the man of God." - They don't have a suitable gift, either monetary or in goods, to give to the prophet. It highlights their situation of being without resources.
"What do we have?'" - Saul is essentially asking his servant to take inventory, to think about if there's anything at all that could be used as a gift. He's trying to find a solution to the problem of going empty-handed.
In essence, this verse reveals:
Saul's understanding of custom: He knew it was common to offer a gift when seeking help or guidance from a religious figure.
Their humble circumstances: It suggests they are not wealthy or traveling with an abundance of provisions.
Saul's practical problem-solving: He wants to do the right thing but is facing a logistical challenge.
Foreshadowing: The fact that they are going on this seemingly simple errand will lead to a life-changing encounter for Saul.
This sets the stage for the rest of the story, highlighting that Saul's encounter with Samuel is not something he planned, but rather a consequence of trying to find lost donkeys and then figuring out how to approach the "man of God" they were told could help. It also highlights a certain humility (or perhaps lack of confidence) in Saul, as he seems unsure of himself and dependent on his servant's input.