Saul Chosen and Given Signs
1 Samuel 9:1-10:8
1 S.9.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מבנימין: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,prop
- ושמו: CONJ,NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- קיש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אביאל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- צרור: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בכורת: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אפיח: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ימיני: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- גבור: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- חיל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:2 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation that identifies Kish's son Saul (tall and handsome); links Kish's household to the introduction of Israel's first king.
- 1 Samuel 10:1 (structural): Samuel anoints Saul, the son of Kish; continues the same narrative strand and shows the significance of Kish's family in Israel's royal origin.
- 1 Chronicles 8:33 (verbal): Genealogical parallel listing Kish as ancestor of Saul in the Benjamite genealogies, corroborating Kish's lineage and tribal identity.
- Judges 6:12 (verbal): Uses the same epithet 'mighty man of valor' (גבור חיל) applied to Gideon; demonstrates a recurring biblical formula for notable/valiant men.
Alternative generated candidates
- There was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, son of Zeror, son of Becorath, son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a man of wealth.
- There was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish, son of Abiel, son of Zeror, son of Bechorath, son of Aphiah; he was a mighty man of valor.
1 S.9.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ולו: CONJ+PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- היה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ושמו: CONJ,NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בחור: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וטוב: CONJ+ADJ,m,sg
- ואין: CONJ+PART,exist
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מבני: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,cs
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- ממנו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- משכמו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg+PRON,3,m,sg
- ומעלה: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,sg
- גבה: ADJ,m,sg
- מכל: PREP
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 10:23-24 (structural): When Saul is publicly presented before Israel he 'stood above' the people and Samuel asks, 'Do you see the man the LORD has chosen?'—echoes the description of Saul's superior stature and uniqueness.
- 1 Samuel 16:6-13 (thematic): Contrast with David's selection: Samuel’s first impressions (appearance/stature) are contested by God’s criteria ('the LORD sees not as man sees'), highlighting different bases for choosing a leader.
- 1 Samuel 15:17 (allusion): Samuel reminds Saul that God made him 'head over the tribes of Israel'—an allusive reference to Saul’s preeminence and role introduced in 9:2.
- Acts 13:21 (allusion): Luke summarizes Israel’s demand for a king and notes that God gave them Saul as their first king, alluding to the same Saul introduced in 1 Samuel 9:2.
Alternative generated candidates
- And he had a son whose name was Saul, a young man, handsome; there was not a man among the sons of Israel better than he—he stood higher than any of the people from his shoulders upward.
- And he had a son whose name was Saul, a handsome young man; there was not a man among the sons of Israel more handsome than he; from his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people.
1 S.9.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ותאבדנה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,pl
- האתנות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- לקיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אבי: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- קיש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בנו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- קח: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- נא: PART
- אתך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- אחד: NUM,card,m,sg
- מהנערים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,def
- וקום: CONJ+VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- בקש: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- האתנת: NOUN,f,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:1-2 (structural): Immediate context introducing Kish and Saul; sets up the lost asses episode and family background that motivates the search.
- 1 Samuel 9:15-17 (verbal): God informs Samuel that Saul will come to him that day — the narrative link showing the donkey-search leads directly to Saul's prophetic discovery and selection as king.
- Exodus 3:1 (thematic): Moses, while tending Jethro’s flock, encounters God at Horeb; like Saul’s donkey-search, an ordinary animal-tending episode precipitates a divine calling/encounter.
- 1 Samuel 16:11-13 (thematic): Samuel’s visit to Jesse’s household leads to David’s anointing; parallels the theme of a domestic/household situation producing a prophetic selection of Israel’s future king.
Alternative generated candidates
- Now the donkeys of Kish, Saul’s father, were lost. And Kish said to Saul his son, “Take now one of the servants with you, and arise, go seek the donkeys.”
- Now the donkeys of Kish, Saul's father, were lost. Kish said to Saul his son, “Take now one of the servants with you, and arise, go seek the donkeys.”
1 S.9.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויעבר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בהר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- אפרים: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויעבר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- שלשה: NUM,m
- ולא: CONJ
- מצאו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- ויעברו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- שעלים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ואין: CONJ+PART,exist
- ויעבר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- ימיני: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולא: CONJ
- מצאו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Luke 15:4-7 (thematic): Parable of the lost sheep—both passages center on a search for what is lost (an animal) and the determined seeking to recover it.
- Ezekiel 34:11-12 (thematic): God as shepherd who searches out his scattered/lost sheep; thematically echoes the motif of seeking through regions to find what is lost.
- Luke 2:44-46 (thematic): Mary and Joseph's urgent search for the lost Jesus after traveling; parallels the movement through regions and the concern of searching for a missing person/thing.
- 1 Samuel 16:1-13 (structural): Another search motif within Samuel: Samuel travels to Jesse’s house to identify the hidden future king (David). Both episodes combine travel through territory with the discovery of an unexpected key figure or object.
- Numbers 13:1-3 (structural): A commissioned reconnaissance that involves sending men to traverse the land to seek information—parallels the itinerary and searching-through-territory aspect of 1 Samuel 9:4.
Alternative generated candidates
- They passed through Mount Ephraim, they passed through the land of Shalisha and through the land of Shaalim; they did not find them. They passed through the land of Zuph and they were not found.
- They passed through Mount Ephraim and passed through the land of Shalishah, and they did not find them; they passed through the land of Shaalim, and they did not find them; they passed through the land of Benjamin, and they did not find them.
1 S.9.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- המה: PRON,3,m,pl
- באו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- צוף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ושאול: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לנערו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- אשר: PRON,rel
- עמו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- לכה: VERB,qal,imp,2,f,sg
- ונשובה: VERB,qal,cohort,1,_,pl
- פן: CONJ
- יחדל: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אבי: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- מן: PREP
- האתנות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- ודאג: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לנו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:3 (verbal): Same episode earlier in the chapter: Saul’s donkeys have been lost for three days and he and his servants are searching — directly parallels the concern and motive for their journey into the land of Zuph.
- 1 Samuel 9:6 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: the servant proposes seeking a 'man of God' in the city — shows how the search for the donkeys propels the meeting with Samuel and the plot development.
- Exodus 3:1 (thematic): Moses is tending shepherds' flocks when he encounters God and receives his commission. Thematic parallel: work with animals or a routine search/tending leading unexpectedly to a divine/higher appointment.
- Genesis 24:10–11 (thematic): Abraham’s servant travels with camels on a mission for his master to find a wife for Isaac. Parallels include the master–servant dynamic, a journey prompted by the master's need, and reliance on a servant in conducting a crucial search.
Alternative generated candidates
- When they came into the land of Zuph, Saul said to the servant who was with him, “Come, let us return, lest my father cease caring about the donkeys and be anxious for us.”
- When they came to the land of Zuph, Saul said to the servant who was with him, “Come, let us return, lest my father cease to care about the donkeys and be anxious for us.”
1 S.9.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- הנה: PART
- נא: PART
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אלהים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- בעיר: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- הזאת: DEM,f,sg,def
- והאיש: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,def
- נכבד: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- כל: DET
- אשר: PRON,rel
- ידבר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בוא: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- יבוא: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- עתה: ADV
- נלכה: VERB,qal,cohort,1,_,pl
- שם: ADV
- אולי: ADV
- יגיד: VERB,hif,impf,3,m,sg
- לנו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- דרכנו: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,1,pl
- אשר: PRON,rel
- הלכנו: VERB,qal,perf,1,pl
- עליה: PREP,3,f,sg
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:9 (verbal): Explains the terminology: older usage equates the 'man of God' with the 'seer'—background for why Saul's servant suggests consulting such a figure.
- 1 Samuel 9:11-14 (structural): Immediate narrative parallel: these verses record the actual meeting with the respected man of God (Samuel) whom Saul and his servant go to for direction.
- 1 Samuel 10:5-8 (thematic): Shows the pattern of seeking prophetic guidance: Samuel (the man of God) gives Saul signs and instructions that determine the course of his journey and destiny.
- 1 Kings 13:1 (verbal): Uses the same designation 'a man of God' for a prophet who speaks God's word to the community—parallel in role and authority.
- 2 Kings 4:8-10 (thematic): A Shunammite recognizes Elisha as a 'holy man of God' and seeks his presence; parallels local recognition and hospitality toward a respected prophetic figure.
Alternative generated candidates
- The servant answered Saul and said, “Behold, there is in this city a man of God, and he is held in honor—everything that he says comes to pass; let us go there now; perhaps he will tell us the way we should go.”
- The servant answered Saul and said, “Behold, there is a man of God in this city, and he is a man of honor; whatever he says surely comes to pass. Let us go there now; perhaps he will show us the way on which we should go.”
1 S.9.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לנערו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+prep_l+3,m,sg
- והנה: ADV
- נלך: VERB,qal,impf,1,pl
- ומה: CONJ+PRON,int
- נביא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לאיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- הלחם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אזל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- מכלינו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+prep_m+1,pl
- ותשורה: NOUN,f,sg,abs+pref_w
- אין: PART,neg
- להביא: VERB,hif,inf
- לאיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- האלהים: NOUN,m,sg,def
- מה: PRON,int
- אתנו: PRON,1,pl
Parallels
- 1Sam.9.8 (structural): Immediate continuation in the same episode: Saul and his servant discuss what present to bring to the 'man of God' and how to approach him — directly parallels the question and concern about provisions and gift.
- 1Sam.25:18-19 (thematic): Abigail brings provisions and gifts to David to avert conflict; parallels the theme of offering food/present to a leader/holy man as a practical and conciliatory act.
- 2Kgs.5:15-16 (thematic): Naaman offers gifts to the prophet Elisha after healing; connects to the expectation of bringing a present to a 'man of God' and the question of what is appropriate to give.
- Gen.32:13-21 (thematic): Jacob prepares a large present to placate Esau before meeting him; parallels the motif of travelers preparing/asking about what present to bring to another influential man.
Alternative generated candidates
- Saul said to his servant, “If we go, what shall we bring the man? For our bread is gone, and there is no present to bring to the man of God; what do we have?”
- Saul said to his servant, “If we go, what shall we bring the man? For the bread is gone from our vessels, and there is no present to bring to the man of God; what have we?”
1 S.9.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויסף: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- הנער: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לענות: VERB,qal,inf
- את: PRT,acc
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- הנה: PART
- נמצא: VERB,nip,perf,3,m,sg
- בידי: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,suff1s
- רבע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שקל: NOUN,m,sg,cstr
- כסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ונתתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- לאיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- האלהים: NOUN,m,sg,def
- והגיד: VERB,hiphil,perf,3,m,sg
- לנו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- דרכנו: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,1,pl
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:11-14 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: the lad's suggestion to consult the 'man of God' is fulfilled when they encounter the seer (Samuel) at the town where a sacrifice is being offered.
- 1 Samuel 9:9 (verbal): Gloss on terminology: the text explains that 'seer' (ro'eh) formerly called 'prophet'—connects the phrase 'man of God' in 9:8 to Israel's prophetic office.
- Deuteronomy 18:15-19 (thematic): Promises that God will raise up a prophet to whom the people must listen—provides the theological basis for consulting a 'man of God' for guidance (seeking divine direction through a prophet).
- 2 Kings 5:15-16 (thematic): Naaman offers gifts to Elisha after being healed; Elisha refuses payment—parallels the practice of approaching a prophet for help and raises questions about offering payment to a man of God.
- Acts 8:18-24 (thematic): Simon the magician attempts to buy the power to confer the Spirit and is rebuked—serves as a New Testament contrast to attempts to pay for spiritual insight or access to God's power.
Alternative generated candidates
- The servant answered again and said, “I have here a quarter shekel of silver; I will give it to the man of God, and he will tell us our way.”
- The servant answered again and said, “Behold, I have a quarter of a shekel of silver in my hand; I will give it to the man of God, and he will tell us our way.”
1 S.9.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- לפנים: PREP
- בישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כה: ADV
- אמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בלכתו: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- לדרוש: VERB,qal,inf
- אלהים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- לכו: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,pl
- ונלכה: VERB,qal,imprf,1,_,pl
- עד: PREP
- הראה: VERB,hiph,perf,3,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- לנביא: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- היום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- יקרא: VERB,niphal,impf,3,m,sg
- לפנים: PREP
- הראה: VERB,hiph,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:6 (verbal): Saul asks townspeople where the 'seer' lives—same scene and use of the term 'seer' (ro'eh) that 9:9 explains.
- 1 Samuel 10:5–6 (thematic): Samuel predicts Saul will meet a company of 'prophets' and be changed—connects the roles and expectation of prophetic/seer activity in Saul's commissioning.
- 1 Samuel 28:6 (thematic): When Saul seeks guidance 'from the LORD' he receives no answer 'by dreams, by Urim, or by prophets'—underscores prophetic/seer functions as channels for inquiring of God.
- 1 Samuel 3:20 (thematic): 'All Israel knew that Samuel was established as a prophet of the LORD'—reflects the recognized public role/title of prophet that 9:9 relates to the older term 'seer.'
Alternative generated candidates
- (Beforetime in Israel, when a man went to inquire of God, he said, “Come, and let us go to the seer”; for the seer was called prophet of old.)
- (Formerly in Israel, when a man went to inquire of God he said, “Come, let us go to the seer,” for he who is now called a prophet was formerly called a seer.)
1 S.9.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לנערו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs,3,m,sg
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- דברך: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2,m,sg
- לכה: VERB,qal,imp,2,f,sg
- נלכה: VERB,qal,cohort,1,_,pl
- וילכו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- העיר: NOUN,f,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- שם: ADV
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- האלהים: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Sam 9:17 (structural): Direct continuation: Samuel (the ‘man of God’) meets Saul in the city mentioned here—same scene resolved in the very next verses.
- 1 Sam 10:5–6 (structural): Soon after entering the city Saul encounters prophets and receives prophetic confirmation—shows the expected outcome of going to the ‘man of God.’
- 2 Kgs 5:2–3 (thematic): A servant (the Israelite maid) directs her master to seek a prophet (Elisha) for healing—parallels the motif of a subordinate advising the head to consult a ‘man of God.’
- 1 Kgs 13:1–3 (verbal): Uses the term ‘man of God’ (איש־האלהים) to designate a prophetic figure who publicly acts on Yahweh’s word—illustrates the same category of person Saul seeks.
Alternative generated candidates
- Saul said to his servant, “Good; let us go.” So they went to the city where the man of God was.
- Saul said to his servant, “Well said; come, let us go.” So they went to the city where the man of God was.
1 S.9.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- המה: PRON,3,m,pl
- עלים: VERB,qal,ptcp,-,m,pl
- במעלה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- העיר: NOUN,f,sg,def
- והמה: PRON,3,m,pl
- מצאו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- נערות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- יצאות: VERB,qal,ptc,3,f,pl
- לשאב: VERB,qal,inf,NA,NA,NA
- מים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- להן: PREP+PRON,3,f,pl
- היש: PART,exist
- בזה: PREP+DEM
- הראה: VERB,hiph,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Genesis 24:11–18 (thematic): Abraham’s servant meets Rebekah at a well where young women come to draw water; the well‑encounter and question/interaction motif closely parallels the scene of meeting women at the spring.
- Genesis 29:2–10 (thematic): Jacob meets Rachel at a watering place when shepherds and women gather; another narrative where a crucial encounter occurs at a well/pond with women drawing water.
- Exodus 2:16–19 (thematic): Moses meets Jethro’s daughters at a well as they come to draw water; they question his identity after he helps them — similar social setting and question/encounter dynamic.
- 1 Samuel 9:9 (verbal): Immediate linguistic/contextual parallel: this verse explains the term 'seer' (used in 9:11). It shows the lexical background for the question 'Is the seer here?'.
- 1 Samuel 10:5–6 (structural): Follows Saul’s search for a seer: prophetic appearances (a band of prophets) serve as the sign that a seer/prophet is present — connects to the expectation behind asking about the seer in 9:11.
Alternative generated candidates
- As they went up the ascent to the city, they found young women coming out to draw water, and Saul said to them, “Is the seer here?”
- They went up to the height of the city, and behold, young women were coming out to draw water; and he said to them, “Is the seer here?”
1 S.9.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ותענינה: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,f,pl
- אותם: PRON,3,m,pl,obj
- ותאמרנה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,pl
- יש: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- הנה: PART
- לפניך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- מהר: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- עתה: ADV
- כי: CONJ
- היום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לעיר: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- זבח: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- היום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לעם: PREP
- בבמה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Sam.9.14 (verbal): Immediate continuation of the same scene: the women explain that the seer is in the town because “today he has come to the city; for there is a sacrifice of the people to‑day in the high place,” repeating the sacrificial setting named in v.12.
- 1 Sam.10.5-8 (thematic): Saul’s encounter with a band of prophets at a religious gathering: like v.12, a communal/ritual assembly provides the setting for an unexpected prophetic encounter and Saul’s initiation.
- 1 Sam.10.22-24 (thematic): Saul is presented and recognized before the people at a public religious occasion (the sacrificial assembly); parallels how the sacrificial gathering in 9:12 brings Saul into contact with the community and leadership role.
- 1 Sam.1.3-4 (thematic): Elkanah’s annual going up to Shiloh to sacrifice illustrates the broader pattern that sacrificial/ritual gatherings draw people to the sanctuary, explaining why a seer/official would be present in town as in 9:12.
Alternative generated candidates
- They answered him and said, “He is. Hurry now; he has come today, for he is sacrificing the sacrifice of the people on the high place.
- They answered them and said, “Behold, he is before you; hurry now, for he has come today to the city; for the people will sacrifice today on the high place.
1 S.9.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כבאכם: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- העיר: NOUN,f,sg,def
- כן: ADV
- תמצאון: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- בטרם: PREP
- יעלה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- הבמתה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- לאכל: INF,qal
- כי: CONJ
- לא: PART_NEG
- יאכל: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- עד: PREP
- באו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- כי: CONJ
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- יברך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- הזבח: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אחרי: PREP
- כן: ADV
- יאכלו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- הקראים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ועתה: CONJ
- עלו: PREP+3ms_suff
- כי: CONJ
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- כהיום: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תמצאון: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
Parallels
- Leviticus 7:15-17 (thematic): Regulates how peace-offerings are eaten (timing, who may eat); parallels the ritual order in 1 Sam 9:13 where the sacrifice is blessed first and only then do the invited eat.
- Numbers 6:22-27 (verbal): Contains the formal priestly blessing; connects to the idea in 1 Sam 9:13 that a designated holy man (Samuel) will 'bless the sacrifice' before the people partake—reflecting the priestly/blessing function.
- 1 Samuel 9:22-24 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation of the same scene: Samuel entertains Saul, assigns him a place and portions at the sacrificial meal—directly follows and fulfills the arrangement described in 9:13.
- 1 Samuel 10:8 (thematic): Later instruction Samuel gives Saul in the context of sacrificial/ritual settings (Gilgal) and Saul’s initiation; thematically linked by Samuel’s mediating role in rites that mark Saul’s transition to kingship.
Alternative generated candidates
- As soon as you enter the city you will find him before he goes up to the high place to eat; for the people will not eat until he comes, because he will bless the sacrifice; afterward those who are invited eat. Now therefore go up, for he comes today to the high place.”
- As soon as you come into the city you will find him before he goes up to the high place to eat, for the people will not eat until he comes, because he will bless the sacrifice; afterwards those who are invited will eat. Now therefore, go up—for at this time you shall find him.”
1 S.9.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויעלו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- העיר: NOUN,f,sg,def
- המה: PRON,3,m,pl
- באים: VERB,qal,part,3,m,pl
- בתוך: PREP
- העיר: NOUN,f,sg,def
- והנה: ADV
- שמואל: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- יצא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לקראתם: PREP,3,m,pl
- לעלות: VERB,qal,inf
- הבמה: NOUN,f,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Sam.9.11-13 (verbal): Immediate narrative continuation of the same scene—these verses describe the same encounter (Saul and his servant meeting Samuel as he goes up to the high place), repeating the motif of Samuel ‘coming out to meet’ them.
- 1 Sam.7.9 (thematic): Samuel goes to the high place (Mizpah) to offer a sacrifice and lead the people—parallels the role and setting (going up to the bamah) in 9:14, linking prophetic activity with cultic ascent.
- Gen.18.2 (verbal): Abraham ‘ran to meet’ his visitors—shares the common biblical motif and phrasing of a host coming out to meet arriving guests or visitors at the city/household entrance.
- 2 Sam.15.2 (thematic): Absalom stands by the city gate to meet and greet people—parallel social setting of reception at a city entrance and the practice of meeting/intercepting persons as they enter the city.
Alternative generated candidates
- So they went up into the city; and as they were entering the city, Samuel was coming out toward them to go up to the high place.
- So they went up into the city. And as they were entering the city, Samuel came out to meet them to go up to the high place.
1 S.9.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהוה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- גלה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- אזן: NOUN,f,sg,cstr
- שמואל: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- יום: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אחד: NUM,card,m,sg
- לפני: PREP
- בוא: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
Parallels
- 1 Sam.9.16 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: God had told Samuel the day before that He would show him the man to anoint (directly completes the revelation mentioned in 9:15).
- 1 Sam.10.1 (thematic): Samuel anoints Saul as king—fulfillment of the revelation Samuel received in 9:15 that Saul would come and be chosen. (Shows outcome of the prior divine disclosure.)
- 1 Sam.3.11 (verbal): God speaks specific future action to Samuel ('Behold, I will do a thing in Israel...'), demonstrating the same pattern of the LORD revealing future events to Samuel as in 9:15.
- 1 Sam.3.21 (thematic): Summarizes that the LORD revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh—parallels the motif of divine revelation to Samuel recorded in 9:15.
- Amos 3.7 (thematic): General principle that the LORD reveals His plans to His prophets ('Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets'), echoing the idea of God informing Samuel in advance.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the LORD had revealed himself to Samuel on the day before Saul came, saying,
- Now the LORD had revealed himself to Samuel the day before Saul came, saying,
1 S.9.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כעת: ADV
- מחר: ADV
- אשלח: VERB,qal,imperf,1,_,sg
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בנימן: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- ומשחתו: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs,poss:3,m,sg
- לנגיד: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- עמי: NOUN,m,sg,abs+1s
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- והושיע: CONJ+VERB,qal,impf,3,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- עמי: NOUN,m,sg,abs+1s
- מיד: PREP
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- כי: CONJ
- ראיתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- עמי: NOUN,m,sg,abs+1s
- כי: CONJ
- באה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- צעקתו: NOUN,f,sg,abs,poss:3,m,sg
- אלי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 10:1 (structural): Immediate fulfilment of the prediction — Samuel anoints Saul as ruler over Israel, matching the promise to send and anoint a man from Benjamin.
- 1 Samuel 10:24-25 (structural): Public selection and acceptance of Saul as leader, continuing the narrative thread that 9:16 establishes (a chosen/anointed ruler raised up for Israel).
- 1 Samuel 16:1 (verbal): Similar language about God providing a king among a man's sons; both verses use the motif of God selecting and anointing a leader for Israel (anticipates David’s anointing).
- Exodus 3:7-8 (thematic): God declares he has seen Israel’s affliction and will deliver them from their enemies — parallels the language in 9:16 about God seeing his people and rescuing them from the Philistines after their cry reaches him.
- Judges 3:9 (thematic): When Israel cries out the LORD raises up a deliverer — parallels the pattern in 9:16 of the people’s cry reaching God and God raising/anointing a savior to deliver Israel.
Alternative generated candidates
- “Tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin; you shall anoint him to be prince over my people Israel; he shall save my people from the hand of the Philistines. For I have looked upon my people, because their cry has come to me.”
- “Tomorrow about this time I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin; you shall anoint him to be prince over my people Israel; he shall save my people from the hand of the Philistines. For I have looked upon my people, because their cry has come to me.”
1 S.9.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ושמואל: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ראה: VERB,qal,imperat,2,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויהוה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ענהו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg+PRON,3,m,sg(obj)
- הנה: PART
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אמרתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,com,sg
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- זה: PRON,dem,m,sg
- יעצר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בעמי: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,poss,1
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 10:1 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: Samuel identifies and then anoints Saul as leader—connects the identification in 9:17 with the formal commissioning that follows.
- 1 Samuel 16:12-13 (verbal): When Samuel sees David later God again signals ‘this is he’ (arise, anoint him); similar phrasing and divine identification of the chosen king.
- 1 Samuel 12:13 (verbal): Samuel’s public affirmation, “Behold the king whom you have chosen,” echoes the language of 9:17 confirming the man God designated to rule.
- 1 Samuel 8:7-22 (thematic): The people’s demand for a king and God’s warning provide the immediate theological and narrative context for Saul’s selection as ruler.
- Deuteronomy 17:14-15 (thematic): Legal provision for appointing a king in Israel frames the institution of monarchy that 1 Samuel treats—background for God’s raising of a ruler among the people.
Alternative generated candidates
- When Samuel saw Saul, the LORD answered him, “Behold, the man of whom I spoke to you; this one shall rule over my people.”
- When Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said to him, “Behold the man of whom I spoke to you; this one shall rule over my people.”
1 S.9.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויגש: VERB,qal,wayy,3,m,sg
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- שמואל: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- בתוך: PREP
- השער: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- הגידה: VERB,piel,imp,2,m,sg
- נא: PART
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- אי: PRON,interrog
- זה: PRON,dem,m,sg
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הראה: VERB,hiph,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Sam.9.9 (verbal): Explains the term 'seer' and the practiced expectation that one would 'go to the seer' to inquire of God—the linguistic/background frame for Saul's question.
- 1 Sam.3.20 (thematic): Reports that Samuel's prophetic reputation spread and all Israel sought him—provides the broader context in which people (like Saul) approach Samuel for guidance.
- 1 Sam.8.4-5 (structural): The elders of Israel come to Samuel at Ramah to request a king—another scene of petitioners approaching Samuel at his residence/gate for a major decision.
- 2 Kings 5:9-14 (thematic): Naaman's visit to Elisha (the prophet) seeking healing parallels the pattern of individuals coming to a prophet/seer to obtain divine word or intervention.
- Judges 13:12 (allusion): Manoah asks the 'man of God' his identity so they can honor him when his word is fulfilled—similar seeking of a prophetic figure's location/identity and expectation of authoritative speech.
Alternative generated candidates
- Saul approached Samuel in the gate and said, “Tell me, please, where the seer’s house is.”
- Then Saul drew near to Samuel in the gate and said, “Please tell me where the seer's house is.”
1 S.9.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויען: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שמואל: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אנכי: PRON,1,sg
- הראה: VERB,hiph,perf,3,m,sg
- עלה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לפני: PREP
- הבמה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ואכלתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- עמי: NOUN,m,sg,abs+1s
- היום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ושלחתיך: VERB,qal,perf,1,sg
- בבקר: PREP
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- אשר: PRON,rel
- בלבבך: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,sg
- אגיד: VERB,qal,impf,1,sg
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:17-18 (structural): Immediate literary context: Samuel brings Saul into the hall, seats him among those invited, and positions him before the people—setting for the private meal and the promise to reveal what is in Saul's heart.
- 1 Samuel 10:1 (thematic): Samuel privately anoints Saul and then gives him signs and prophetic instruction—continuation of Samuel's role in revealing Saul's future, matching the promise to 'tell you all that is in your heart.'
- 1 Samuel 10:24 (structural): Samuel publicly presents Saul to Israel and confirms his selection as king—parallel to the movement from a private meal/meeting with Samuel to public disclosure of Saul's destiny.
- 1 Samuel 16:5-13 (allusion): Samuel's visit to Jesse to anoint David follows a similar pattern: prophetic choice, a family gathering (sacrifice/meal), and a private anointing/revelation—echoing the ritual and narrative pattern of Samuel commissioning a kingly figure.
Alternative generated candidates
- Samuel answered Saul, “I am the seer; go up before the high place today, and you shall eat with me; and tomorrow I will let you go, and I will tell you all that is in your heart.”
- Samuel answered Saul and said, “I am the seer; go up before the high place, and you shall eat with me today; tomorrow I will send you away and will tell you all that is in your heart.”
1 S.9.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ולאתנות: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,pl,def
- האבדות: ADJ,f,pl,def
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- היום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- שלשת: NUM,m,pl,abs
- הימים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- אל: NEG
- תשם: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- לבך: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- כי: CONJ
- נמצאו: VERB,niphal,perf,3,pl
- ולמי: CONJ+PREP,interr
- כל: DET
- חמדת: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הלוא: PART
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- ולכל: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אביך: NOUN,m,sg,suff+2ms
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 8:5 (thematic): The people’s demand for a king (‘appoint for us a king’) establishes the background for the phrase ‘the desire of Israel’ in 9:20 — the popular wish for a monarch.
- 1 Samuel 9:16 (structural): An immediate narrative parallel: God had already revealed that a man from Benjamin (Saul) would be made leader. This oracle undergirds Samuel’s reassurance that Israel’s desire is fulfilled in Saul.
- 1 Samuel 10:24 (structural): When Saul is publicly presented, the people acclaim him as king. This episode shows the realization of ‘all the desire of Israel’ mentioned in 9:20.
- Luke 15:3-7 (thematic): A literary/thematic parallel: both passages use the motif of a lost animal being sought and found (donkeys in 1 Sam; a sheep in Luke) to convey relief and restoration.
Alternative generated candidates
- As for the donkeys that were lost three days ago, do not set your heart on them; they are found. And as for all the desire of Israel, to whom does it belong? Is it not to you and to all your father’s house?”
- And as for the lost donkeys that were yours three days ago, do not set your heart on them; for those things have been found. And to whom is all the desire of Israel? Is it not to you and to all your father's house?”
1 S.9.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויען: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- הלוא: PART
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ימיני: ADJ,m,sg
- אנכי: PRON,1,sg
- מקטני: PREP+ADJ,m,pl,cs
- שבטי: NOUN,m,pl,con
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומשפחתי: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,suff
- הצערה: ADJ,f,sg,def
- מכל: PREP
- משפחות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- שבטי: NOUN,m,pl,con
- בנימן: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- ולמה: CONJ
- דברת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- אלי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- כדבר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הזה: DEM,m,sg
Parallels
- Judges 6:15 (verbal): Gideon responds to God's call by saying he is the least in his father's house and the youngest—language and humility echo Saul’s claim to be of the smallest tribe/household.
- 1 Samuel 16:11-12 (thematic): David is identified as the youngest/least among Jesse’s sons yet is chosen by God as king—parallel theme of apparent low status contrasted with selection for leadership.
- Deuteronomy 7:7-8 (allusion): God’s election of Israel is said to be despite their being 'the fewest of all peoples,' echoing the motif of being small or least as not disqualifying for God’s purposes.
- 1 Corinthians 1:26-28 (thematic): Paul observes that God commonly chooses the weak and lowly rather than the powerful—the theological theme that the 'least' may be God’s instrument connects with Saul’s self-description as least of Benjamin.
Alternative generated candidates
- Saul answered, “Am I not a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel, and is my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? Why then have you spoken to me in this way?”
- Saul answered and said, “Am I not a Benjaminite, from the least of the tribes of Israel, and is my clan not the humblest of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why then do you speak to me in this way?”
1 S.9.22 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויקח: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- שמואל: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואת: CONJ
- נערו: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויביאם: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לשכתה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ויתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- מקום: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בראש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,cstr
- הקרואים: PTCP,qal,part,m,pl,def
- והמה: PRON,3,m,pl
- כשלשים: PREP+NUM,card,pl
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Sam.10.22-24 (verbal): Very close/repetitive account in the same narrative—Saul is again brought into the hall and set among the invited, highlighting a duplicated wording and placement motif.
- 1 Sam.11.15 (structural): Public installation of Saul as king (Gilgal); thematically parallels the earlier scene of public placement/recognition that initiates Saul’s emergence as leader.
- 2 Sam.23:8-39 (thematic): Reference to David’s ‘thirty’ mighty men; echoes the numerical motif of a notable group of ~thirty men and the idea of an inner circle of prominent warriors/companions.
- Gen.18:2-5 (thematic): Abraham’s reception and seating of important guests—shared hospitality motif in which a host/protector provides a place among those invited for a significant visitor.
Alternative generated candidates
- Then Samuel took Saul and his servant and brought them into the hall, and he made them sit among those who were invited; there were about thirty persons.
- Then Samuel took Saul and his servant and brought them into the chamber and made them sit among those who were invited—about thirty persons.
1 S.9.23 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שמואל: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- לטבח: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תנה: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- המנה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- נתתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אמרתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,com,sg
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- שים: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- עמך: NOUN,m,sg,suff-2m
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:22 (structural): Immediate context: the verse directly follows Samuel’s hosting of a meal and the cook’s role; the instruction to give a portion is part of the same narrative scene.
- Genesis 18:6-8 (thematic): Abraham prepares a calf and sets meat before his visitors—parallel theme of a host preparing and setting aside food for honored guests.
- Genesis 43:34 (verbal): Joseph’s steward gives Benjamin a special portion and seats him—similar action of allocating a distinct portion to an honored guest at a communal meal.
- 1 Samuel 25:18 (thematic): Abigail provisions and sends food to David and his men—another instance of preparing and setting aside provisions for a leader/guest in a high-stakes social setting.
Alternative generated candidates
- Samuel said to the steward, “Bring the portion that I gave you, which I told you to set aside.”
- Samuel said to the steward, “Bring the portion that I gave you and which I said to you to set aside.”
1 S.9.24 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וירם: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- הטבח: NOUN,m,sg,def
- את: PRT,acc
- השוק: NOUN,m,sg,def
- והעליה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- וישם: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לפני: PREP
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- הנה: PART
- הנשאר: ADJ,ptcp,qal,m,sg,def
- שים: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- לפניך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- אכל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- למועד: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שמור: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- קראתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- ויאכל: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עם: PREP
- שמואל: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ביום: PREP
- ההוא: DEM,ms,sg
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:22 (verbal): Immediate parallel in the same scene: Samuel instructs the servant about the portion to be set aside and uses similar language about placing food before Saul (same cooking/placement vocabulary).
- 1 Samuel 10:1 (structural): Direct structural continuation: the meal with Samuel immediately precedes Samuel’s formal anointing and commissioning of Saul—meal as prelude to revelation of Saul’s office and instructions.
- 1 Kings 17:13-16 (thematic): Elijah’s reception of food from the widow (and the widow feeding Elijah and her household) echoes the prophetic/host relationship and the motif of provision through a prophetic meal.
- 1 Kings 19:5-8 (thematic): The ‘eat and be strengthened’ motif: an angel/prophet provides food to sustain the servant for the task ahead, paralleling the idea that eating precedes receiving instructions at the appointed time.
Alternative generated candidates
- So the steward took up the shoulder and set it before Saul. Samuel said, “Behold, what is left—set it before you and eat; for it has been kept for you for the appointed time. I have called the people, and you shall eat with me today.”
- The steward took the shoulder and presented it; and he set it before Saul. Samuel said, “Behold the portion that remains; set it before you, and eat; for to this day it has been kept for you, because the people were called. When you are called, you shall eat with me today.”
1 S.9.25 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וירדו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- מהבמה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- העיר: NOUN,f,sg,def
- וידבר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- עם: PREP
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- הגג: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:11 (verbal): Same narrative complex and vocabulary: the people go to the high place (הבמה) in the town—connects the temple/high-place setting that the travellers leave in 9:25.
- 1 Samuel 10:5-6 (thematic): Prophetic gatherings coming down from a high place and a transformative encounter—parallels the motif of descent from the high place and an important prophetic/leadership interaction with Saul.
- 2 Samuel 11:2 (verbal): Use of the roof (הגג) as the setting for a decisive personal encounter/observation (David on his roof seeing Bathsheba)—parallels the roof as a location for pivotal conversation in 1 Sam 9:25.
- 1 Kings 18:20-40 (thematic): Public prophetic contest and worship on a high place—connects the role of 'high places' as loci of prophetic authority and communal religious episodes, analogous to the high-place setting in 1 Sam 9.
Alternative generated candidates
- They went down from the high place into the city and spoke together upon the roof.
- They went down from the high place to the city; and Samuel talked with Saul on the roof.
1 S.9.26 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישכמו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- כעלות: PREP
- השחר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויקרא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- שמואל: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הגגה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- קומה: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- ואשלחך: VERB,qal,impf,1,sg
- ויקם: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויצאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- שניהם: PRON,3,m,pl
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- ושמואל: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- החוצה: NOUN,f,sg,def
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 16:11-13 (structural): Samuel again summons a young man (David) into the household context and performs a royal anointing—parallel in function and narrative role: Samuel as prophet who calls, examines, and installs a kingly figure.
- 1 Samuel 10:8 (verbal): Samuel gives Saul direct instructions about where to go and what to do as part of his commissioning; continues the same prophetic–political commissioning sequence that begins with Samuel calling Saul at the gate.
- Ruth 4:1-11 (thematic): Important legal and communal actions take place at the city gate before elders/witnesses; parallels the gate as a public, official space where decisive acts (here Samuel’s summons and the initiation of Saul’s kingship) occur.
- Deuteronomy 21:19-21 (structural): The city gate functions as the locus of public judgment and official business in Israelite society—this background helps explain why Samuel calls Saul at the gate, a place of authority and communal visibility.
- Isaiah 50:4 (thematic): The motif of early-morning rising and prophetic activity—'morning by morning'—parallels the text’s note that they rose at dawn and Samuel called Saul at daybreak, linking dawn as an appropriate time for prophetic summons and action.
Alternative generated candidates
- Early in the morning Samuel called to Saul upon the roof and said, “Up, that I may send you away.” And Saul arose, and both of them went out, he and Samuel, together.
- Early in the morning Samuel called Saul on the roof, saying, “Up, that I may send you away.” So Saul arose, and they went out both of them, he and Samuel, abroad.
1 S.9.27 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- המה: PRON,3,m,pl
- יורדים: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,pl
- בקצה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- העיר: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ושמואל: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לנער: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויעבר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לפנינו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
- ויעבר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- ואתה: CONJ+PRON,2,m,sg
- עמד: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- כיום: ADV
- ואשמיעך: VERB,hiph,imperfect,1,sg+PRON,2,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- דבר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אלהים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:15-17 (structural): Immediate narrative parallel: the LORD had told Samuel about Saul the day before, preparing Samuel to reveal God’s word to Saul (sets up Samuel’s statement in v.27).
- 1 Samuel 10:1 (thematic): Continuation of the same commissioning scene: Samuel anoints Saul and speaks God’s purposes for him—an example of the prophet revealing and enacting the word of the LORD for a new king.
- 1 Samuel 10:9-10 (thematic): The Spirit of the LORD coming upon Saul and his prophesying is a related instance where divine revelation is made manifest to and through Saul after Samuel’s pronouncement that he will show him God’s word.
- 1 Samuel 3:19-21 (thematic): Pattern of prophetic disclosure: the LORD repeatedly revealed himself to Samuel at Shiloh and his word was made known to Israel—parallels the idea of a prophet revealing God’s word to a chosen person.
- Jeremiah 1:4-10 (thematic): Prophetic commissioning motif: God’s call and the promise of disclosure/authority to the prophet (’I have appointed you… I have put my words in your mouth’), paralleling Samuel’s role in revealing God’s word to Saul.
Alternative generated candidates
- As they were going down to the outskirts of the city, Samuel said to Saul, “Tell the young man to pass on before us and stand you a while, that I may show you the word of God.”
- As they went down to the outskirts of the city, Samuel said to Saul, “Tell the servant to pass on before us; and you stand still a while, that I may show you the word of God.”
1 S.10.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויקח: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- שמואל: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- פך: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- השמן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויצק: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- ראשו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- וישקהו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- הלוא: PART
- כי: CONJ
- משחך: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg,2,m,sg(obj)
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- נחלתו: NOUN,f,sg,abs,suff:3,m
- לנגיד: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 16:13 (verbal): Samuel pours oil on David's head to anoint him as king; parallels the ritual act of anointing and the prophet Samuel's role in conferring kingship.
- 1 Kings 1:39 (structural): Solomon is anointed king with oil by Zadok the priest and others—a royal anointing ceremony establishing legitimate rule, similar in form and purpose to Saul's anointing.
- Leviticus 8:12 (verbal): The priestly ordination of Aaron includes pouring oil on the head and anointing; shares the same ritual language (pouring oil on the head) used for consecration.
- Psalm 89:20 (thematic): Speaks of God finding David and anointing him with holy oil—ties the theme of divine choice and anointing as the grounds for kingship.
- Isaiah 45:1 (thematic): God declares He will anoint Cyrus to carry out divine purposes; expands the motif of divine anointing as commissioning a leader for God's plan.
Alternative generated candidates
- Then Samuel took the flask of oil and poured it on his head and kissed him, and said, “Has not the LORD anointed you to be prince over his inheritance?
- Then Samuel took the flask of oil and poured it on his head and kissed him, and said, “Has not the LORD anointed you to be prince over his inheritance?
1 S.10.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- בלכתך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+2,ms
- היום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- מעמדי: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+1,ms
- ומצאת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- שני: NUM,m,pl,construct
- אנשים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- עם: PREP
- קברת: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- רחל: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בגבול: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- בנימן: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- בצלצח: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs,prop
- ואמרו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- נמצאו: VERB,niphal,perf,3,pl
- האתנות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- הלכת: VERB,qal,perf,2,f,sg
- לבקש: PREP+VERB,qal,infc
- והנה: ADV
- נטש: VERB,qal,perf,3,ms
- אביך: NOUN,m,sg,suff+2ms
- את: PRT,acc
- דברי: NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,1,c,sg
- האתנות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- ודאג: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,3,ms
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- מה: PRON,int
- אעשה: VERB,qal,impf,1,_,sg
- לבני: PREP
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 9:1-10 (structural): The broader opening episode: Saul's mission to find his father's donkeys and the initial meetings that set the narrative context for the signs Samuel gives in 10:2.
- 1 Samuel 9:15-17 (verbal): God's prior revelation to Samuel that Saul would appear; closely parallels the predictive/sign motif in 10:2 where Samuel foretells specific encounters.
- 1 Samuel 10:3 (structural): The immediately following sign in the same commission sequence (meeting three men and provisions); part of the cohesive set of prophetic signs given to Saul.
- Genesis 35:19 (allusion): Mentions Rachel's burial at Ephrath (Ramah), providing the foundational tradition/location behind the 'Rachel's tomb' setting named in 1 Samuel 10:2.
- Jeremiah 31:15 (thematic): Uses the motif of Rachel and maternal anguish over her children; thematically resonates with the image of familial concern and a father's anxiety expressed in 1 Samuel 10:2 ('What shall I do about my son?').
Alternative generated candidates
- When you depart from me today, you will meet two men by Rachel’s tomb in the border of Benjamin at Zelzah; they will say to you, ‘The donkeys which you went to seek are found; and your father has ceased worrying about the donkeys and is anxious about you, saying, “What shall I do about my son?”’
- When you depart from me today, you will find two men by Rachel's tomb at the border of Benjamin at Zelzah; and they will say to you, ‘The donkeys which you sought are found; and now your father has ceased caring about the donkeys and is anxious about you, saying, “What shall I do about my son?”’
1 S.10.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וחלפת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- משם: PREP
- והלאה: ADV
- ובאת: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- עד: PREP
- אלון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תבור: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומצאוך: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שם: ADV
- שלשה: NUM,m
- אנשים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- עלים: VERB,qal,ptcp,-,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- האלהים: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- אחד: NUM,card,m,sg
- נשא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שלשה: NUM,m
- גדיים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ואחד: CONJ+NUM,m,sg
- נשא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שלשת: NUM,m,pl,abs
- ככרות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- לחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואחד: CONJ+NUM,m,sg
- נשא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- נבל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 10:4-5 (structural): Immediate literary context: the verse is part of a sequence of signs Saul will encounter (meeting men going up to Bethel followed by encountering prophets); vv.4–5 continue and interpret the significance of the meeting described in v.3.
- 1 Samuel 19:18-24 (thematic): A later scene where Saul and his messengers encounter a band of prophets 'going up to the house of God' and are overcome by prophetic ecstasy—parallels the motif of people 'going up to God' and the unexpected prophetic activity associated with such groups.
- 1 Samuel 21:1-6 (thematic): David's visit to the priest at Nob, where he receives bread (shewbread) intended for sacred use—parallels the image of men carrying loaves and provisions connected with movement to a sanctuary.
- Genesis 18:2-5 (thematic): Abraham's three visitors arrive with provisions and are offered refreshment; the motif of 'three men' bearing food echoes the catalogue of three men with kids, loaves, and a skin of wine in 1 Samuel 10:3.
- Genesis 28:10-19 (allusion): Jacob's journey to and experience at Bethel (the place named 'Bethel') connects to the geographic and cultic setting of 1 Samuel 10:3—the motif of travel to a sacred site where divine encounters occur.
Alternative generated candidates
- From there you shall go on and come to the oak of Tabor; there three men going up to God to Bethel will meet you—one carrying three kids, one carrying three loaves of bread, and one carrying a skin of wine.
- Then you shall go on from there and come to the oak of Tabor; and there shall meet you three men going up to God at Bethel, one carrying three kids, another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a skin of wine.
1 S.10.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ושאלו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- לשלום: PREP
- ונתנו: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- שתי: NUM,card,f,du
- לחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולקחת: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- מידם: PREP
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 10:5 (structural): Immediate continuation of the same sign sequence: after being greeted and given bread the text says Saul will prophesy with the prophets—verse 10:4 is part of this linked set of signs.
- 1 Samuel 9:11-13 (allusion): Earlier episode in Saul’s introduction where a prophetic procession is encountered on the way to the high place; parallels the motif of meeting groups of prophets and prophetic activity.
- 1 Samuel 19:20-24 (thematic): A later narrative in which Saul meets a band of prophets and falls into prophetic behavior—an apparent fulfillment/repetition of the prophetic-encounter sign promised in 10:4–5.
- Luke 10:5-7 (thematic): Jesus’ instruction to disciples to seek a worthy household that will receive them echoes the cultural pattern of greeting and hospitality (finding hosts who will provide food and lodging) similar to being ‘greeted and given bread.’
- 1 Samuel 21:3-6 (thematic): David’s receiving of bread (the showbread) from Ahimelech resonates with the motif of being provided bread by others as immediate sustenance/acceptance in a crisis or while traveling.
Alternative generated candidates
- They will greet you and give you two loaves of bread; you shall accept them from their hand.
- They will greet you and give you two loaves of bread; you shall accept them from their hand.
1 S.10.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אחר: PREP
- כן: ADV
- תבוא: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- גבעת: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- האלהים: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- שם: ADV
- נצבי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- פלשתים: NOUN,m,pl,cstr
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- כבאך: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,cons,2,ms
- שם: ADV
- העיר: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ופגעת: CONJ+VERB,qal,impf,2,ms
- חבל: NOUN,m,sg,cstr
- נביאים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ירדים: VERB,qal,ptcp,m,pl
- מהבמה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- ולפניהם: CONJ+PREP+PRON,3,pl,m
- נבל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ותף: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וחליל: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וכנור: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- והמה: PRON,3,m,pl
- מתנבאים: VERB,hitpael,ptcp,m,pl
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 10:10-11 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: Saul meets the prophesying band at Gibeah, the instruments are played and Saul is filled with the Spirit and begins to prophesy.
- 1 Samuel 19:20-24 (thematic): A similar scene in which a company of prophets causes messengers (and eventually Saul himself) to prophesy; includes the recurring motif 'Is Saul also among the prophets?'
- 2 Kings 2:3,5,7 (thematic): Mentions ‘the sons of the prophets’ gathered at towns (e.g., Jericho), reflecting the social phenomenon of prophetic guilds or bands like the group Saul encounters.
- Acts 2:1-4 (thematic): New Testament parallel of a communal outpouring of the Spirit that produces public prophecy and vocal/performative manifestations—comparable communal prophetic activity.
Alternative generated candidates
- After that you shall come to the hill of God where there is a garrison of the Philistines; and it shall be when you come there to the city, that a band of prophets will meet you going down from the high place with lyre, timbrel, pipe, and harp before them; and they will prophesy.
- After that you shall come to the garrison of God at Gibeah, where the Philistine outpost is; and as you come to the city, you will meet a band of prophets coming down from the high place, with harp, psaltery, tambourine, flute, and lyre before them; and they will prophesy.
1 S.10.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וצלחה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- עליך: PREP+2ms
- רוח: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- והתנבית: VERB,hitpael,perf,2,m,sg
- עמם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- ונהפכת: VERB,niphal,perf,2,m,sg
- לאיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אחר: PREP
Parallels
- 1 Sam 10:10 (verbal): Immediate parallel in the same chapter: the Spirit of the LORD comes upon Saul and he prophesies among the prophets — repeats the same language and fulfilment of the promise.
- 1 Sam 19:20-24 (thematic): Saul again meets a group of prophets and 'the Spirit of God comes upon him' so that he prophesies and is 'changed' — a repeated narrative instance of the same phenomenon.
- Judges 14:6 (verbal): Uses the same formula of the Spirit of the LORD rushing/coming upon a man and producing extraordinary change in behaviour (here Samson) — similar verbal motif of divine empowerment.
- Acts 2:4 (thematic): New Testament counterpart: the Holy Spirit falls on the gathered people causing speech/prophetic activity — same theme of the Spirit’s arrival producing transformed, prophetic utterance in a community.
Alternative generated candidates
- Then the Spirit of the LORD will come upon you mightily, and you shall prophesy with them and be turned into another man.
- Then the Spirit of the LORD will come mightily upon you, and you shall prophesy with them and be changed into another man.
1 S.10.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והיה: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- תבאנה: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,pl
- האתות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- האלה: DEM,pl
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- עשה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- אשר: PRON,rel
- תמצא: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- ידך: NOUN,f,sg,abs,poss:2,f,sg
- כי: CONJ
- האלהים: NOUN,m,sg,def
- עמך: NOUN,m,sg,suff-2m
Parallels
- Exodus 4:2-5 (verbal): God asks Moses 'What is that in your hand?' and gives miraculous signs for him to perform—similar 'hand'/sign motif and instruction to act using what is at hand as proof of God's presence.
- Judges 6:16 (thematic): God assures Gideon 'Surely I will be with you' and commissions him to act despite apparent weakness—parallel promise of divine presence enabling action.
- Joshua 1:5-9 (thematic): Repeated exhortation to be strong and act because 'the LORD your God is with you'—the same guarantee used to justify bold action in 1 Sam 10:7.
- Jeremiah 1:8 (verbal): God tells Jeremiah 'Do not be afraid... for I am with you to deliver you'—another prophetic assurance of God's presence accompanying a commission to act.
Alternative generated candidates
- And let it be, when these signs come upon you, do whatever your hand finds to do; for God is with you.
- And let it be, when these signs come upon you, you shall do as your hand finds to do; for God is with you.
1 S.10.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וירדת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- לפני: PREP
- הגלגל: NOUN,m,sg,def
- והנה: ADV
- אנכי: PRON,1,sg
- ירד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- להעלות: VERB,hiphil,inf
- עלות: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- לזבח: VERB,qal,inf
- זבחי: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- שלמים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- שבעת: NUM,card,construct
- ימים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- תוחל: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- עד: PREP
- בואי: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,1,sg
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- והודעתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,c,sg
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- אשר: PRON,rel
- תעשה: VERB,qal,imf,2,m,sg
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 13:8-14 (structural): Same setting at Gilgal and the seven‑day waiting motif; here Saul fails to wait the full time and offers the burnt offering himself, leading to Samuel's rebuke—direct narrative contrast to the command in 10:8.
- Leviticus 8:33-35 (thematic): Prescribes a seven‑day consecration period for Aaron and his sons before they begin priestly service—parallels the seven‑day waiting before sacrificial/ritual activity in 1 Samuel 10:8.
- 1 Samuel 7:9-11 (thematic): Samuel performs sacrificial rites at Mizpah and intercedes for Israel, after which God responds—echoing Samuel's priestly/sacrificial role and the link between sacrifice and divine action implied in 10:8.
- Exodus 24:1-11 (thematic): Moses and the elders offer sacrifices and 'see the God of Israel,' with covenantal instruction following sacrificial rites—parallels the pattern of ritual sacrifice followed by divine revelation or direction as in 10:8.
Alternative generated candidates
- You shall go down before me to Gilgal; and behold, I will come down to you to sacrifice burnt offerings and peace offerings; seven days you shall wait until I come to you and show you what you shall do.”
- You shall go down before me to Gilgal; and behold, I will come down to you to offer burnt offerings and peace offerings; you shall wait seven days until I come to you and tell you what you shall do.”
Now there was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish, son of Abiel, son of Zeror, son of Bechorath, son of Aphiah; a mighty man of valor. And he had a son whose name was Saul, a young man, handsome and choice; there was no one among the sons of Israel better than he in appearance—from his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people.
The donkeys of Kish, the father of Saul, were lost; and Kish said to Saul his son, “Take now one of the lads with you and arise, go seek the donkeys.”
He passed through Mount Ephraim, and passed through the land of Shalisha, and they did not find them; they passed through the land of Shaalim, and they did not find them.
They came to the land of Zuph. Saul said to his attendant who was with him, “Come, let us return, lest my father cease being anxious about the donkeys and be distressed for us.” But the attendant answered him, “Behold, there is in this city a man of God, and he is esteemed; whatever he says comes to pass. Come, let us go there—perhaps he will show us the way on which we should go.”
Saul said to his attendant, “If we go, what shall we bring the man? Our bread is gone; and there is no present to bring to the man of God. What have we?”
The attendant answered Saul again and said, “Behold, I have in my hand a quarter shekel of silver; I will give it to the man of God, and he will tell us our way.”
(Formerly in Israel, when anyone went to inquire of God, he said, “Come, let us go to the seer”; for the one who is now called a prophet was formerly called a seer.)
Saul said to his attendant, “Well said; let us go.” So they went to the city where the man of God was.
As they went up the ascent into the city, they met some young women going out to draw water. He asked them, “Is the seer here?”
They answered them and said, “Behold, he is before you; hurry now, for he has come today—he is to appear at the high place to sacrifice to the people.”
“As you enter the city you will find him before he goes up to the high place to eat, for the people do not eat until he comes, because he will bless the sacrifice; afterward the invited guests will eat. Now get up; for at once you will find him.” So they went into the city as they came in, and behold, Samuel was going out toward them to go up to the high place. And the LORD had revealed to Samuel the day before Saul came, saying,
“Tomorrow about this time I will send to you a man from the land of Benjamin; you shall anoint him to be prince over my people Israel; he shall save my people from the hand of the Philistines; for I have looked upon my people, because their cry has come to me.”
When Samuel saw Saul, the LORD answered him, “Behold, the man of whom I spoke to you; this one shall govern my people.”
Saul drew near to Samuel in the gate and said, “Tell me, I pray you, where the seer's house is.”
Samuel answered Saul, “I am the seer; go up before the high place and eat with me today, and in the morning I will send you away, and will tell you all that is in your heart.” And as for the lost donkeys you sought three days ago, set your mind no more upon them; they have been found. But as for all that Israel longs for—who is it but you and all your father's house?”
Saul answered, “Am I not a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel, and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? Why then have you spoken to me in this way?”
Samuel took Saul and his attendant and brought them into the chamber and seated them at the head of those who were invited; there were about thirty persons.
Samuel said to the cook, “Bring the portion that I gave you, the one I told you to keep.”
The cook took the cooked piece and set it before Saul. Samuel said, “Behold the portion kept—set it before you; eat, for it was kept for you when I called the people together.” So Saul ate with Samuel that day.
When they had come down from the high place into the city, Samuel talked with Saul on the roof.
They rose early. In the morning Samuel called to Saul on the roof, saying, “Get up, that I may send you away.” So he rose, and they went out—he and Samuel—outside.
As they came down to the end of the city, Samuel said to the attendant, “Pass on before us,” and he passed on; but you stay a while, that I may show you the word of God.”
Samuel took the flask of oil and poured it upon his head and kissed him, and said, “Has not the LORD anointed you to be prince over his inheritance?
When you have gone from me today you will meet two men by Rachel's tomb in the border of Benjamin at Zelzah; and they will say to you, ‘The donkeys which you went to seek are found; and your father has ceased being anxious about the donkeys and is worrying about you, saying, “What shall I do for my son?”’
From there you shall go on and come to the oak of Tabor; three men going up to God to Bethel will meet you; one carrying three kids, another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a skin of wine.
They will greet you and give you two loaves of bread; you shall receive them from their hands.
After that you shall come to Gibeah of God, where the garrison of the Philistines is; and when you come to the city, you will meet a band of prophets coming down from the high place with a tambour, a flute, a lyre, and a harp before them, prophesying.
Then the Spirit of the LORD will come upon you mightily, and you shall prophesy with them and be turned into another man. And it shall be that when these signs have come upon you, do what the occasion requires; for God is with you.
You shall go down before me to Gilgal; and behold, I will come down to you to offer burnt offerings and peace offerings. Wait seven days until I come to you and show you what you shall do.”