1 Samuel 10:12

Authorized King James Version

And one of the same place answered and said, But who is their father? Therefore it became a proverb, Is Saul also among the prophets?

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיַּ֨עַן

H6030

of the same place answered

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

אִ֥ישׁ

H376

And one

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

מִשָּׁ֛ם

H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

וַיֹּ֖אמֶר

H559

and said

to say (used with great latitude)

וּמִ֣י

H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

אֲבִיהֶ֑ם

But who is their father

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

כֵּן֙

H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

הָֽיְתָ֣ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

#10

לְמָשָׁ֔ל

H4912

Therefore it became a proverb

properly, a pithy maxim, usually of metaphorical nature; hence, a simile (as an adage, poem, discourse)

#11

הֲגַ֥ם

H1571

properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and

#12

שָׁא֖וּל

H7586

Is Saul

shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites

#13

בַּנְּבִאִֽים׃

H5030

also among the prophets

a prophet or (generally) inspired man

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Samuel, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Samuel.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

Related Resources

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