1 Samuel 12:4
And they said, Thou hast not defrauded us, nor oppressed us, neither hast thou taken ought of any man's hand.
Original Language Analysis
לֹ֥א
H3808
לֹ֥א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
2 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
עֲשַׁקְתָּ֖נוּ
Thou hast not defrauded
H6231
עֲשַׁקְתָּ֖נוּ
Thou hast not defrauded
Strong's:
H6231
Word #:
3 of 10
to press upon, i.e., oppress, defraud, violate, overflow
וְלֹ֣א
H3808
וְלֹ֣א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
4 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
רַצּוֹתָ֑נוּ
us nor oppressed
H7533
רַצּוֹתָ֑נוּ
us nor oppressed
Strong's:
H7533
Word #:
5 of 10
to crack in pieces, literally or figuratively
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
לָקַ֥חְתָּ
us neither hast thou taken
H3947
לָקַ֥חְתָּ
us neither hast thou taken
Strong's:
H3947
Word #:
7 of 10
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
מִיַּד
hand
H3027
מִיַּד
hand
Strong's:
H3027
Word #:
8 of 10
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
Historical Context
Public vindication of departing leaders was important in ancient societies where reputation affected family honor for generations. Samuel's unblemished record contrasted sharply with common experiences of judicial corruption across the ancient Near East.
Questions for Reflection
- What would those who have been under your leadership say about your integrity?
- How does personal integrity enhance one's ability to speak prophetic truth?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And they said, Thou hast not defrauded us, nor oppressed us, neither hast thou taken ought of any man's hand.
Israel's unanimous testimony - 'Thou hast not defrauded us, nor oppressed us' - provides complete vindication of Samuel's ministry. Their affirmation extends even to rejecting any claim that Samuel took anything 'of any man's hand,' eliminating even the appearance of impropriety. This public exoneration serves multiple purposes: it validates prophetic ministry, establishes standards for the monarchy, and positions Samuel to speak with unquestioned moral authority in the rebuke to follow.