MPV Commentary

Samuel.

1. A mighty man of power—that is, a person of great wealth and influence. The family was highly respected in the tribe of Benjamin, so Saul's words must be seen as a common form of humility used by people from that region.

2. Saul was a choice young man with a fine appearance; he was likely around seven feet tall. His stature and athletic build would have been considered attractive at that time.

3. The asses belonging to Kish, Saul's father, were lost. Kish told Saul to go find them. It is probable that the family had let their animals roam freely during grazing season, and messengers were sent out to search for them. This was a common practice among shepherds in the region.

4-5. Saul traveled through Mount Ephraim, which is located north of Benjamin. He explored the entire mountainous area, including its valleys and passes, before turning southward towards the borders of Benjamin. As he journeyed, he scoured the land of Zuph and was preparing to return home when his servant remembered that they were near a man of God who could offer them guidance.

6. There is a man of God in this city who might be able to show us our way. Ramah was Samuel's usual residence, but other circumstances suggest that "this city" was not the same place where Samuel lived.

7. Saul asked his servant, "What shall we bring the man?" In Eastern culture, it would have been considered impolite to visit a superior person without bringing a gift of some kind. Saul thought about giving the man of God a cake from their traveling bag, which was sufficient for making bread and would be an acceptable offering.

8. The fourth part of a shekel of silver is equivalent to more than sixpence. In Eastern culture, money was considered the most suitable form of gift for someone of high rank.

9. A seer was one who received visions from God, while a prophet foretold future events. These terms were used to distinguish between different types of spiritual leaders.

11-13. As they climbed the hill, they met a group of young women going out to fetch water. The women told them that Samuel had arrived in the city for a festival and that a sacrifice had been offered by prophets outside the tabernacle. A feast was planned, and according to tradition, the man of God would ask a blessing on the food.

14. Samuel came out to meet them as he was going up to preside over the high festival. In those simple times, even a prominent prophet like Samuel blended in with ordinary citizens.