1 Samuel 10:3

KJV

Then shalt thou go on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the plain of Tabor, and there shall meet thee three men going up to God to Bethel, one carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a bottle of wine:

KJV (with Strong's)

Then shalt thou go on {H2498} forward {H1973} from thence, and thou shalt come {H935} to the plain {H436} of Tabor {H8396}, and there shall meet {H4672} thee three {H7969} men {H582} going up {H5927} to God {H430} to Bethel {H1008}, one {H259} carrying {H5375} three {H7969} kids {H1423}, and another {H259} carrying {H5375} three {H7969} loaves {H3603} of bread {H3899}, and another {H259} carrying {H5375} a bottle {H5035} of wine {H3196}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Go on from there, and you will come to the Oak of Tavor. Three men will meet you there on their way up to God at Beit-El. One of them will be carrying three kids, another three loaves of bread and the third a skin of wine.

Berean Standard Bible

Then you will go on from there until you come to the Oak of Tabor. Three men going up to God at Bethel will meet you there, one carrying three young goats, another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a skin of wine.

American Standard Version

Then shalt thou go on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the oak of Tabor; and there shall meet thee there three men going up to God to Beth-el, one carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a bottle of wine:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 10:3 details the second of three specific, divine signs given by the prophet Samuel to Saul immediately following his secret anointing as Israel's first king. This precise prophecy describes Saul's encounter with three men on a pilgrimage to Bethel, carrying specific provisions—three kids, three loaves of bread, and a bottle of wine—all designed to unequivocally confirm God's hand upon Saul and validate his unexpected royal appointment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of a meticulously orchestrated series of prophetic signs delivered by Samuel to Saul. Following Saul's private anointing in [1 Samuel 10:1](/1_samuel/10-1 "1 Samuel 10:1 - Saul Anointed King"), Samuel provides a detailed itinerary for Saul's journey home, punctuated by three distinct encounters. The first sign, mentioned in [1 Samuel 10:2](/1_samuel/10-2 "1 Samuel 10:2 - Rachel's Tomb and Found Donkeys"), involves two men informing Saul that his father's lost donkeys have been found, alleviating his immediate family concern. [1 Samuel 10:3](/1_samuel/10-3 "1 Samuel 10:3 - The Second Sign at Tabor") presents the second sign, a more complex and symbolic encounter, which immediately precedes the third and most dramatic sign: Saul's prophetic transformation and the Spirit of God coming upon him, as described in [1 Samuel 10:6](/1_samuel/10-6 "1 Samuel 10:6 - The Spirit of God Comes Upon Saul"). This sequential unfolding of events builds Saul's confidence and demonstrates the undeniable reality of God's direct intervention in his life, preparing him for the public confirmation of his kingship.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The mention of "the plain of Tabor" (more accurately, "the terebinth of Tabor" or "the oak of Tabor," as 'elown/allon refers to a prominent tree) indicates a well-known landmark, likely a sacred or significant tree, serving as a precise geographical marker for the prophecy. The destination, Bethel, meaning "house of God," held profound historical and spiritual significance for Israel, dating back to [Jacob's encounter with God](/genesis/28-19 "Genesis 28:19 - Jacob Names Bethel") and his dream of a ladder to heaven. It was a recognized pilgrimage site, a place where people "went up to God" to offer sacrifices and seek divine presence. The items carried by the three men—kids (young goats), loaves of bread, and wine—were standard components of ancient Israelite offerings and communal meals associated with worship, sacrifice, and fellowship. Their journey to Bethel with these provisions underscores the deeply ingrained practice of pilgrimage and the importance of ritual purity and offering in seeking God's favor and fulfilling vows in ancient Israelite society.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within 1 Samuel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Confirmation and Validation**, demonstrating God's meticulous care in authenticating His chosen leaders through verifiable signs, leaving no room for doubt regarding Saul's divine appointment. Secondly, the precise nature of the prophecy underscores **Prophetic Accuracy and Reliability**, reinforcing Samuel's authority as a true prophet of Yahweh whose words are fulfilled to the letter. Thirdly, the men "going up to God to Bethel" introduces the theme of **Pilgrimage and Seeking God's Presence**, symbolizing a spiritual journey towards communion with the Divine, a journey Saul himself is now implicitly embarking upon as the anointed king. Finally, the provisions carried by the men—food and drink—can be seen as a subtle foreshadowing of **God's Provision and Sustenance**, indicating that God will provide the necessary resources and support for those He calls into His service, both spiritually and physically, for the tasks He sets before them.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Plain of Tabor (Hebrew, _elown Tabor'_):** While translated "plain," the Hebrew term `אֵלוֹן` (`'elown`) or `אַלּוֹן` (`'allon'`) specifically refers to an "oak" or "terebinth tree." This indicates a prominent, perhaps ancient or sacred, tree that served as a well-known landmark rather than a vast, flat expanse. This precision in geographical detail adds to the verifiability and authenticity of Samuel's prophecy, pointing to a very specific, recognizable location.
* **Going up to God (Hebrew, _olîm 'el hā'ĕlōhîm'_):** This phrase describes the men's intentional journey as a spiritual pilgrimage. "Going up" (from `עָלָה`, _'alah'_) often denotes an ascent, both literally (as Bethel was at a higher elevation) and metaphorically, signifying a movement towards a sacred place or deity. The phrase "to God" (`אֶל הָאֱלֹהִים`, _'el hā'ĕlōhîm'_) emphasizes the devotional purpose of their journey—they are not merely traveling to Bethel, but specifically seeking to encounter or worship God there. This highlights the religious significance of the encounter for Saul.
* **Bethel (Hebrew, _Beyt-'El'_):** Meaning "House of God," Bethel was a historically significant cultic site where Jacob had a profound encounter with God ([Genesis 28:19](/genesis/28-19 "Genesis 28:19 - Jacob Names Bethel")). Its name and history made it a potent symbol of divine presence and covenant, reinforcing the spiritual weight of Saul's prophetic encounter near this hallowed ground.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then shalt thou go on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the plain of Tabor,"**: This clause establishes the geographical progression of Saul's journey. "From thence" refers to Samuel's location, likely Ramah. Saul is directed along a specific route, indicating the precise nature of God's prophetic guidance. The arrival at "the plain of Tabor" (the oak/terebinth of Tabor) marks the specific location where the second sign will occur, emphasizing the exactness of the divine plan.
* **"and there shall meet thee three men going up to God to Bethel,"**: This is the core of the second sign. The encounter is not random but divinely ordained ("shall meet thee"). The number "three" is specific, and their destination ("to God to Bethel") clearly identifies their purpose as a religious pilgrimage. This detail connects Saul's path with the spiritual life of the nation, as he is about to become its spiritual and political leader.
* **"one carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a bottle of wine:"**: This final clause details the specific provisions carried by the three men. Each item—kids (young goats), loaves of bread, and wine—are common elements for offerings, sacrifices, or communal meals in ancient Israelite worship. The repetition of "three" (three men, three kids, three loaves) adds to the specificity and memorability of the sign, making its fulfillment unmistakable. These provisions symbolize sustenance, fellowship, and elements of sacrifice, hinting at the resources and spiritual support God would provide for Saul's new role.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several key literary devices to enhance its meaning and impact. **Prophecy** is the overarching device, with Samuel delivering a highly specific, verifiable prediction that will immediately unfold for Saul. This precision serves to authenticate Samuel's divine commission and, by extension, Saul's anointing. **Symbolism** is evident in the items carried by the pilgrims: the kids, bread, and wine are not merely provisions but represent elements of worship, sacrifice, and sustenance, subtly foreshadowing the spiritual resources and divine provision available to Saul in his new role. The journey "up to God to Bethel" itself is **symbolic** of a spiritual pilgrimage, aligning Saul's personal journey with the nation's spiritual aspirations. Furthermore, the entire sequence of signs acts as a form of **foreshadowing**, preparing Saul for the greater spiritual empowerment and transformation he will experience when the Spirit of God comes upon him in [1 Samuel 10:6](/1_samuel/10-6 "1 Samuel 10:6 - The Spirit of God Comes Upon Saul"), demonstrating God's progressive revelation and preparation for His chosen servants.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This prophetic encounter powerfully illustrates God's commitment to confirming His calling and providing tangible assurance to those He chooses for His purposes. The meticulous detail of the sign—the specific location, the number of men, their destination, and the items they carry—underscores God's sovereignty and His ability to orchestrate even seemingly mundane encounters for His divine ends. It teaches us that God often provides clear, undeniable evidence of His will, not just through internal conviction, but through external, verifiable circumstances. This divine confirmation serves not only to reassure the individual but also to validate their authority before others, laying a solid foundation for their leadership.

* [Genesis 24:12-14](/genesis/24-12 "Genesis 24:12-14 - Abraham's Servant Prays for a Sign") - Abraham's servant prays for a specific sign to identify Rebekah, demonstrating God's use of concrete signs to confirm His will.
* [Judges 6:36-40](/judges/6-36 "Judges 6:36-40 - Gideon's Fleece") - Gideon requests and receives two distinct signs involving a fleece to confirm God's call to deliver Israel.
* [Isaiah 7:10-14](/isaiah/7-10 "Isaiah 7:10-14 - Immanuel Sign") - God offers King Ahaz a sign, ultimately providing the sign of Immanuel, demonstrating God's initiative in giving signs.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The story of Saul's prophetic encounter at the terebinth of Tabor offers profound insights into God's methods of calling and equipping His servants. It reminds us that divine appointments are often accompanied by clear, undeniable confirmations, designed to bolster faith and remove doubt. While we may not receive such dramatic, specific prophetic signs today, God continues to confirm His will through various means: the consistent testimony of His Word, the wise counsel of godly mentors, the alignment of circumstances, and the inner peace of the Holy Spirit. This passage encourages us to cultivate a posture of attentiveness and obedience, trusting that God will provide the necessary assurances as we step into new seasons or responsibilities. Just as the men were on a journey "up to God," so too are believers called to a continuous pilgrimage of seeking God's presence, bringing our "offerings" of praise, obedience, and surrendered lives, confident that He will meet us and provide for us along the way.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways has God provided "signs" or confirmations in your own life when calling you to a new path or task?**
* **How does the specificity of this prophecy about Saul encourage your trust in God's detailed knowledge and planning for your life?**
* **What "provisions" (spiritual, emotional, physical) do you believe God is calling you to bring on your "journey up to God" today?**
* **How can paying closer attention to seemingly small or coincidental details help you discern God's leading?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the specific items carried by the three men (kids, bread, and wine)?**

Answer: The items carried by the three men—three kids (young goats), three loaves of bread, and a bottle of wine—are highly significant as they represent common elements used in ancient Israelite religious practices. Kids were often used for sacrifices, particularly burnt offerings or peace offerings, symbolizing atonement, dedication, or fellowship with God. Bread was a staple food and frequently used in offerings, such as the showbread or grain offerings, signifying sustenance and God's provision. Wine was used in libations (drink offerings) and for celebratory purposes, often accompanying sacrifices or covenant meals, symbolizing joy, covenant, and fellowship. Their collective presence indicates that the men were on a pilgrimage to Bethel for the purpose of worship, sacrifice, or a communal religious meal. For Saul, seeing these specific provisions would have immediately connected the encounter to the sacred and affirmed the divine nature of the sign, hinting at God's provision for his new role and the spiritual dimension of his kingship.

**Why was Bethel chosen as the destination for these pilgrims, and what does it signify?**

Answer: Bethel, meaning "House of God," was a profoundly significant spiritual site in Israelite history, making it a natural destination for pilgrims "going up to God." Its importance dates back to [Genesis 28](/genesis/28 "Genesis 28 - Jacob's Dream at Bethel"), where Jacob had a transformative encounter with God, dreamed of a ladder to heaven, and set up a pillar, naming the place Bethel. It became a recognized sanctuary and a place where God had revealed Himself. For the pilgrims, going to Bethel signified a journey to a place of divine presence, worship, and covenant renewal. For Saul, the encounter near Bethel would have underscored the spiritual gravitas of his anointing and the sacred nature of the kingship he was about to assume. It connected his personal divine appointment to the broader covenant history of Israel and the enduring presence of God among His people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The precise prophetic signs given to Saul, particularly the encounter with pilgrims bearing provisions for worship, find their ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as Saul's kingship was confirmed by undeniable divine signs, so too was Jesus's identity as the Messiah and King of kings validated by countless prophecies and miraculous signs, culminating in His resurrection. The men "going up to God to Bethel" with offerings foreshadows the ultimate journey to God made possible through Christ. He is the true "House of God," the very dwelling place of God among humanity ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). The provisions of kids, bread, and wine, symbolic of sacrifice and sustenance, are perfectly embodied in Christ. He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), the ultimate sacrifice that fully atones for sin. He is the [Bread of Life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life"), who gives true spiritual sustenance to those who come to Him. And His blood, shed on the cross, is the [wine of the new covenant](/mark/14-24 "Mark 14:24 - The Blood of the New Covenant"), establishing an eternal relationship with God. In Christ, the pilgrimage to God is no longer a physical journey to a specific site, but a spiritual journey of faith into a living relationship, where all the provisions for reconciliation and eternal life are fully and freely given.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 35:1

¶ And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother.

Genesis 35:3

And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went.

Genesis 28:22

And this stone, which I have set [for] a pillar, shall be God's house: and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee.

Genesis 28:19

And he called the name of that place Bethel: but the name of that city [was called] Luz at the first.

Leviticus 1:10

¶ And if his offering [be] of the flocks, [namely], of the sheep, or of the goats, for a burnt sacrifice; he shall bring it a male without blemish.

Leviticus 3:6

¶ And if his offering for a sacrifice of peace offering unto the LORD [be] of the flock; male or female, he shall offer it without blemish.

Joshua 19:12

And turned from Sarid eastward toward the sunrising unto the border of Chislothtabor, and then goeth out to Daberath, and goeth up to Japhia,