1 Samuel 15:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 15:17
17 And Samuel said, When thou wast little in thine own sight, wast thou not made the head of the tribes of Israel, and the LORD anointed thee king over Israel?
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 15 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, prayer, discipleship. Written during the transition to monarchy (c. 1050-1010 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Israel transitioned from tribal confederacy to monarchy while facing Philistine military pressure.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Samuel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Samuel 15:17
17 And Samuel said, When thou wast little in thine own sight, wast thou not made the head of the tribes of Israel, and the LORD anointed thee king over Israel?
Analysis
And Samuel said, When thou wast little in thine own sight, wast thou not made the head of the tribes of Israel, and the LORD anointed thee king over Israel?
Samuel's rhetorical question - 'When thou wast little in thine own sight, wast thou not made the head of the tribes of Israel?' - recalls Saul's earlier humility (9:21; 10:22). Being 'little in thine own sight' (qatan) described Saul's self-assessment when God chose him. The LORD's anointing responded to this humility. By implication, Saul is no longer 'little in his own sight' - his monument-building suggests the opposite. Growth in position produced growth in self-importance that undermined the humility God honored.
Historical Context
Saul's initial humility impressed Samuel and was part of why God chose him. His tribe (Benjamin) was smallest; his family was 'least' in the tribe. This external smallness reflected internal humility that qualified him for elevation. That qualification no longer applies.
Reflection
- How does growth in position sometimes destroy the humility that qualified us for that position?
- What happens when leaders become great in their own sight?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Samuel 10:1, 10:22, Judges 6:15
- Kingdom: Matthew 18:4
- References Israel: 1 Samuel 9:21, Hosea 13:1