1 Samuel 9:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 9:21
21 And Saul answered and said, Am not I a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel? and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? wherefore then speakest thou so to me?
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 9 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, covenant, fellowship. 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 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 9:21
21 And Saul answered and said, Am not I a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel? and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? wherefore then speakest thou so to me?
Analysis
And Saul answered and said, Am not I a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel? and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? wherefore then speakest thou so to me?
Saul's response reveals either genuine humility or strategic self-deprecation, possibly both. His rhetorical questions emphasize dual lowliness: Benjamin was the smallest tribe, and his family was the least within Benjamin. The language echoes Gideon's similar protest (Judges 6:15), establishing a pattern of God choosing the unlikely. Saul's reasoning, if sincere, shows appropriate awareness of his inadequacy for such a calling. Yet the mention of Benjamin's smallness requires nuance: the tribe had been nearly exterminated in the civil war of Judges 19-21, making their later provision of Israel's first king a remarkable restoration. Saul's question 'wherefore then speakest thou so?' (lamah dabbarta elai kadavar hazeh) expresses bewilderment at Samuel's suggestion. This moment of self-effacement stands in stark contrast to the pride that would later characterize Saul's reign.
Historical Context
Benjamin's decimation in the tribal war (Judges 20-21) had reduced them to a remnant. Their gradual recovery made Saul's emergence as king a testimony to tribal restoration. The pattern of God choosing smaller tribes and lesser families (Gideon from Manasseh, David from Judah's lesser line) reinforced the theological principle that 'God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble' (James 4:6).
Reflection
- How should we respond when God's calling seems to exceed our qualifications or background?
- What does Saul's initial humility teach about the danger of forgetting our origins once we achieve success?
Cross-References
- References Israel: 1 Samuel 15:17
- Parallel theme: Psalms 68:27, Luke 14:11, Ephesians 3:8