1 Samuel 15:27
And as Samuel turned about to go away, he laid hold upon the skirt of his mantle, and it rent.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּסֹּ֥ב
turned about
H5437
וַיִּסֹּ֥ב
turned about
Strong's:
H5437
Word #:
1 of 7
to revolve, surround, or border; used in various applications, literally and figuratively
לָלֶ֑כֶת
H1980
לָלֶ֑כֶת
Strong's:
H1980
Word #:
3 of 7
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
וַיַּֽחֲזֵ֥ק
he laid hold
H2388
וַיַּֽחֲזֵ֥ק
he laid hold
Strong's:
H2388
Word #:
4 of 7
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
בִּכְנַף
upon the skirt
H3671
בִּכְנַף
upon the skirt
Strong's:
H3671
Word #:
5 of 7
an edge or extremity; specifically (of a bird or army) a wing, (of a garment or bedclothing) a flap, (of the earth) a quarter, (of a building) a pinna
Historical Context
The mantle (me'il) was the outer robe associated with prophetic office. Tearing garments symbolized mourning and distress. The torn piece of Samuel's robe anticipates Ahijah's later symbolic action with Jeroboam (1 Kings 11:30-31).
Questions for Reflection
- What do our desperate grasping moments reveal about what we truly value?
- How does God sometimes use our own actions to illustrate spiritual realities?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And as Samuel turned about to go away, he laid hold upon the skirt of his mantle, and it rent.
As Samuel turns to leave, Saul 'laid hold upon the skirt of his mantle, and it rent.' This desperate physical gesture produces a powerful prophetic symbol. Saul grasps for what he is losing - Samuel's support, divine favor, the kingdom itself. The torn garment becomes an object lesson that Samuel will interpret. The Hebrew qara ('rent' or 'tore') appears again in the interpretation. Saul's grasping desperation literally creates the symbol of his loss.