1 Samuel 14:25
And all they of the land came to a wood; and there was honey upon the ground.
Original Language Analysis
וְכָל
H3605
וְכָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
הָאָ֖רֶץ
And all they of the land
H776
הָאָ֖רֶץ
And all they of the land
Strong's:
H776
Word #:
2 of 9
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
בַיָּ֑עַר
to a wood
H3293
בַיָּ֑עַר
to a wood
Strong's:
H3293
Word #:
4 of 9
a copse of bushes; hence, a forest; hence, honey in the comb (as hived in trees)
וַיְהִ֥י
H1961
וַיְהִ֥י
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
5 of 9
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
דְבַ֖שׁ
and there was honey
H1706
דְבַ֖שׁ
and there was honey
Strong's:
H1706
Word #:
6 of 9
honey (from its stickiness); by analogy, syrup
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
7 of 9
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Historical Context
Wild honey was a significant food source in ancient Palestine, providing quick energy. The 'wood' (forest) contained beehives in trees or rocks. This natural abundance during pursuit offered practical sustenance that Saul's oath prohibited.
Questions for Reflection
- How do human religious requirements sometimes prevent receiving God's provision?
- When has unnecessary restriction blocked blessing God intended for you?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And all they of the land came to a wood; and there was honey upon the ground.
The narrative describes abundant provision - 'there was honey upon the ground' - that Saul's oath forbade the troops to enjoy. Honey dripping in the forest pictures God's blessing available but prohibited by human decree. The irony deepens: God provides strength for battle, but the king's command prevents reception. Saul's religious scrupulosity (fasting for victory) actually hinders what God freely offers. Legal restrictions can block divine provision.