1 Samuel 9:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 9:27
27 And as they were going down to the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul, Bid the servant pass on before us, (and he passed on,) but stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee the word of God.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 9 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, faith, hope. 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 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 9:27
27 And as they were going down to the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul, Bid the servant pass on before us, (and he passed on,) but stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee the word of God.
Analysis
And as they were going down to the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul, Bid the servant pass on before us, (and he passed on,) but stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee the word of God.
The chapter concludes with pregnant anticipation as Samuel prepares to reveal 'the word of God' (davar Elohim) to Saul. The dismissal of the servant ensures privacy for what will be Israel's first royal anointing. The command to 'stand thou still' (amod kayom) echoes other moments of divine encounter where stillness precedes revelation (cf. Exodus 14:13; Psalm 46:10). Samuel's phrase 'the word of God' elevates the coming communication beyond personal opinion or political arrangement to divine pronouncement. This servant who had guided Saul throughout the journey must now step aside: what follows is between God, His prophet, and His chosen king alone. The verse ends suspended, pointing forward to chapter 10's anointing, leaving readers with the understanding that everything in chapter 9 has been preparatory for the revelation about to unfold.
Historical Context
The edge of the city provided semi-private space away from the activity of town life while still technically within city limits. The servant's dismissal follows ancient protocol for confidential communications between superiors. 'The word of God' as a technical term would become increasingly significant in prophetic literature, denoting authoritative divine communication that demanded obedience.
Reflection
- What might God be asking you to 'stand still' to receive from Him?
- How does the dismissal of the servant remind us that our ultimate calling comes from God alone?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter