1 Samuel 15:24

Authorized King James Version

And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיֹּ֨אמֶר

H559

said

to say (used with great latitude)

שָׁא֤וּל

H7586

And Saul

shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

שְׁמוּאֵל֙

H8050

unto Samuel

shemuel, the name of three israelites

חָטָ֔אתִי

H2398

I have sinned

properly, to miss; hence (figuratively and generally) to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, (causatively) lead astray, condemn

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

עָבַ֥רְתִּי

H5674

for I have transgressed

to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

פִּֽי

H6310

the commandment

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

#10

יְהוָ֖ה

H3068

of the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

#11

וְאֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#12

דְּבָרֶ֑יךָ

H1697

and thy words

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

#13

כִּ֤י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#14

יָרֵ֙אתִי֙

H3372

because I feared

to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten

#15

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#16

הָעָ֔ם

H5971

the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

#17

וָֽאֶשְׁמַ֖ע

H8085

and obeyed

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

#18

בְּקוֹלָֽם׃

H6963

their voice

a voice or sound

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Samuel, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Samuel Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Samuel chapter 15 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Samuel

Study Resources

Biblical Maps