1 Samuel 16:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 16:7
7 But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 16 is a anointing narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, sacrifice, righteousness. 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 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 16:7
7 But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.
Analysis
But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.
This verse contains one of Scripture's most profound anthropological and theological statements. The contrast between human sight (einayim - eyes) and divine sight reveals fundamentally different modes of evaluation. 'The LORD looketh on the heart' (lebab) - encompassing mind, will, and affections - establishes internal character as the true criterion for divine approval. This principle anticipates Jesus' teaching that 'out of the heart proceed evil thoughts' (Matthew 15:19) and underscores that God's kingdom operates by values counter to worldly wisdom.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern cultures valued physical prowess and appearance in kings as signs of divine favor and military capability. Israel had adopted these criteria in choosing Saul. God's corrective through Samuel challenges cultural assumptions about leadership qualifications that persist across civilizations.
Reflection
- What aspects of your 'heart' - thoughts, motives, affections - need transformation before God's eyes?
- How does this passage challenge the criteria your church or organization uses to select leaders?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Chronicles 28:9, Proverbs 16:2, 31:30, Jeremiah 17:10, 20:12, Acts 1:24
- Parallel theme: 1 Kings 8:39, Luke 16:15, John 7:24, 1 Peter 3:4