1 Samuel 9:18
Then Saul drew near to Samuel in the gate, and said, Tell me, I pray thee, where the seer's house is.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּגַּ֥שׁ
drew near
H5066
וַיִּגַּ֥שׁ
drew near
Strong's:
H5066
Word #:
1 of 14
to be or come (causatively, bring) near (for any purpose); euphemistically, to lie with a woman; as an enemy, to attack; religious to worship; causati
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 14
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַגִּֽידָה
Tell
H5046
הַגִּֽידָה
Tell
Strong's:
H5046
Word #:
8 of 14
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
נָּ֣א
H4994
נָּ֣א
Strong's:
H4994
Word #:
9 of 14
'i pray', 'now', or 'then'; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjunction
Historical Context
The city gate area typically included chambers or recesses where legal proceedings and official business were conducted. Saul's assumption that the seer would have a house for consultations reflects the common practice of prophets maintaining a residence where people could seek counsel. Samuel's circuit ministry (7:16-17) meant he was not always available in one location.
Questions for Reflection
- When have you sought God for one thing and received something far greater?
- How does Saul's unawareness of Samuel's identity parallel our sometimes limited perception of how God is working?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Then Saul drew near to Samuel in the gate, and said, Tell me, I pray thee, where the seer's house is.
Dramatic irony pervades this verse: Saul asks Samuel about Samuel's own location, unaware that he is speaking to the very prophet he seeks. His polite request, 'Tell me, I pray thee' (haggidah-na li), shows proper deference to a stranger. The setting in 'the gate' (sha'ar) places this pivotal conversation in the most public space of the city, though no one yet understands its significance. Saul's question about 'the seer's house' indicates he expected a private consultation, not realizing he would be invited to a public feast as the guest of honor. The contrast between what Saul seeks (information about donkeys) and what he will receive (the kingdom of Israel) exemplifies how God's answers infinitely exceed our requests. This moment of unknowing approach toward destiny resonates with every believer's experience of seeking God for small matters while He prepares larger purposes.