1 Samuel 8:10
And Samuel told all the words of the LORD unto the people that asked of him a king.
Original Language Analysis
אֵ֖ת
H853
אֵ֖ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 11
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
4 of 11
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
דִּבְרֵ֣י
all the words
H1697
דִּבְרֵ֣י
all the words
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
5 of 11
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
יְהוָ֑ה
of the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֑ה
of the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
6 of 11
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
הָעָ֕ם
unto the people
H5971
הָעָ֕ם
unto the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
8 of 11
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
הַשֹּֽׁאֲלִ֥ים
that asked
H7592
הַשֹּֽׁאֲלִ֥ים
that asked
Strong's:
H7592
Word #:
9 of 11
to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand
Historical Context
The prophetic role of covenant mediator required complete faithfulness in transmitting divine messages. Ancient Near Eastern treaties similarly required messengers to deliver the suzerain's words exactly as given. Samuel's role here parallels Moses announcing covenant stipulations, establishing a pattern for later prophetic ministry.
Questions for Reflection
- When have you been tempted to soften God's truth to make it more acceptable to others?
- How does Samuel's example challenge you to deliver difficult messages with both faithfulness and compassion?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And Samuel told all the words of the LORD unto the people that asked of him a king.
Samuel's faithfulness as a prophet shines through this pivotal moment. The Hebrew phrase "kol divrei" (all the words) emphasizes his complete transmission of God's message without omission or softening. As God's spokesman, Samuel does not filter the divine warning to make it more palatable, nor does he add his own grievances to manipulate the outcome. This exemplifies the prophetic office at its purest: the faithful declaration of God's word regardless of audience reception. Samuel's integrity contrasts sharply with false prophets who tell people what they want to hear (Jeremiah 23:16-17). The phrase "that asked of him a king" subtly reminds the reader that this demand originated with the people, not with God's design. Their persistent asking (Hebrew "sha'al," the root of Saul's name) sets up an ironic wordplay that will echo throughout Saul's narrative. True spiritual leadership requires speaking truth even when it confronts popular desire.