1 Samuel 12:3

KJV

Behold, here I [am]: witness against me before the LORD, and before his anointed: whose ox have I taken? or whose ass have I taken? or whom have I defrauded? whom have I oppressed? or of whose hand have I received [any] bribe to blind mine eyes therewith? and I will restore it you.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold, here I am: witness {H6030} against me before the LORD {H3068}, and before his anointed {H4899}: whose ox {H7794} have I taken {H3947}? or whose ass {H2543} have I taken {H3947}? or whom have I defrauded {H6231}? whom have I oppressed {H7533}? or of whose hand {H3027} have I received any bribe {H3724} to blind {H5956} mine eyes {H5869} therewith? and I will restore {H7725} it you.

Complete Jewish Bible

So here I am; now is the time to witness against me before ADONAI and before his anointed king. Does any of you think I have taken your ox or donkey, defrauded or oppressed you, or accepted a bribe to deprive you of justice? Tell me, and I will restore it to you."

Berean Standard Bible

Here I am. Bear witness against me before the LORD and before His anointed: Whose ox or donkey have I taken? Whom have I cheated or oppressed? From whose hand have I accepted a bribe and closed my eyes? Tell me, and I will restore it to you.”

American Standard Version

Here I am: witness against me before Jehovah, and before his anointed: whose ox have I taken? or whose ass have I taken? or whom have I defrauded? whom have I oppressed? or of whose hand have I taken a ransom to blind mine eyes therewith? and I will restore it you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 1 Samuel 12:3, Samuel delivers a powerful valedictory address to the nation of Israel as they transition from a divinely appointed judgeship to a human monarchy under King Saul. This verse captures Samuel's public self-vindication, where he challenges the people to identify any instance of corruption, injustice, or abuse of power during his long and faithful tenure as judge and prophet. His bold declaration serves to underscore his blameless leadership and implicitly highlights the gravity of Israel's decision to reject God's direct rule in favor of a human king, setting a high standard of integrity for the emerging monarchy.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Samuel's farewell discourse in [1 Samuel 12](/1_samuel/12 "1 Samuel 12 - Samuel's Farewell Address"), delivered after the anointing of Saul as king and a victory over the Ammonites. Samuel, having faithfully served Israel "all the days of his life" ([1 Samuel 7:15](/1_samuel/7-15 "1 Samuel 7:15 - Samuel's Lifelong Service")), is now formally stepping down from his judicial role. His address serves as a final exhortation and warning to the people, reminding them of God's faithfulness despite their repeated unfaithfulness, culminating in their demand for a king ([1 Samuel 8:5](/1_samuel/8-5 "1 Samuel 8:5 - Israel Demands a King")). Samuel's self-vindication here contrasts sharply with the corrupt practices of Eli's sons ([1 Samuel 2:12-17](/1_samuel/2-12 "1 Samuel 2:12-17 - The Wickedness of Eli's Sons")), implicitly affirming his own integrity as a righteous leader in stark comparison.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is ancient Israel, an agrarian society where oxen and donkeys were vital assets, representing a person's livelihood and wealth. Theft, fraud, oppression, and bribery were common abuses of power, especially by those in judicial or governmental positions. The Mosaic Law contained strict prohibitions against such acts, particularly concerning judges and those in authority (e.g., [Exodus 23:6-8](/exodus/23-6 "Exodus 23:6-8 - Laws on Justice and Bribery"), [Deuteronomy 16:18-20](/deuteronomy/16-18 "Deuteronomy 16:18-20 - Appointment of Judges and Officers")). Samuel's challenge to the people to "witness against me" was a public, legalistic act, akin to a formal inquiry, conducted "before the LORD" (invoking divine witness) and "before his anointed" (King Saul, invoking human authority and the new political order). This public accountability was crucial in a society where justice was often administered locally and personally.
* **Key Themes:** Samuel's declaration powerfully articulates several key themes. First, it underscores the paramount importance of **integrity in leadership**. Samuel sets a high standard for public servants, demonstrating that true authority, especially in God's name, must be exercised with fairness, impartiality, and without personal gain or corruption. Second, it highlights **accountability**, as Samuel willingly submits himself to public scrutiny, emphasizing transparency and moral uprightness as foundational to legitimate rule. Third, the specific questions about oxen, asses, fraud, oppression, and bribes directly address the biblical emphasis on **justice and fairness** for all, particularly the vulnerable. Samuel's blamelessness in these areas serves as a model of selfless service to God and His people, contrasting sharply with the corrupt leadership Israel had previously experienced and implicitly warning the new monarchy against similar pitfalls.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Anointed (Hebrew, _māšîaḥ_):** This term, here translated "his anointed," refers to King Saul, whom Samuel himself had consecrated with oil as Israel's first king ([1 Samuel 10:1](/1_samuel/10-1 "1 Samuel 10:1 - Saul Anointed King")). The word _māšîaḥ_ literally means "anointed one" and carries significant theological weight, signifying divine appointment and authority. By invoking "his anointed," Samuel places his self-vindication not only before the people and God but also before the newly established human authority, implicitly reminding everyone, including Saul, that even the king is under God's ultimate authority and subject to moral scrutiny.
* **Defrauded (Hebrew, _‘āšaq_):** This verb implies oppression, extortion, or dealing unjustly, often by those in positions of power or authority. It suggests taking advantage of someone through unfair means, whether by withholding what is due, exploiting their vulnerability, or using one's position to gain an unfair advantage. Samuel's denial of this charge emphasizes his commitment to equitable treatment for all citizens, particularly in judicial matters where a judge could easily exploit the less powerful.
* **Bribe to blind mine eyes (Hebrew, _šōḥad ləha‘wîr ‘ênāyw_):** This is a potent idiom found throughout the Old Testament (e.g., [Exodus 23:8](/exodus/23-8 "Exodus 23:8 - Do Not Take a Bribe"), [Deuteronomy 16:19](/deuteronomy/16-19 "Deuteronomy 16:19 - Judges Must Not Take Bribes")), signifying the perversion of justice and judgment caused by accepting illicit payments. A bribe was understood to corrupt one's perception, making a judge unable to see the truth or administer justice fairly. Samuel's clear conscience on this point highlights his uncompromised integrity in legal and administrative matters, ensuring that his judgments were based on truth and not personal gain.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold, here I [am]: witness against me before the LORD, and before his anointed:"** Samuel boldly presents himself for public scrutiny, inviting the entire assembly to testify against him. By invoking "the LORD," he places his actions under divine judgment, emphasizing the sacredness of his office and the ultimate accountability to God. The inclusion of "his anointed" (King Saul) acknowledges the new political reality and places Samuel's legacy in the context of the emerging monarchy, setting a precedent for royal accountability.
* **"whose ox have I taken? or whose ass have I taken?"** These questions refer to common forms of theft or extortion involving vital possessions in an agrarian society. Oxen and donkeys were crucial for farming, transportation, and livelihood. Samuel's innocence in these matters affirms his respect for individual property rights and his refusal to exploit his position for personal enrichment, which was a common abuse by corrupt officials.
* **"or whom have I defrauded? whom have I oppressed?"** These broader questions address unjust treatment and abuse of power. "Defrauded" implies taking advantage or exploiting, while "oppressed" suggests crushing or treating harshly, often implying physical, emotional, or economic harm. Samuel's blamelessness here underscores his commitment to fair and compassionate governance, protecting the vulnerable and ensuring equitable treatment for all.
* **"or of whose hand have I received [any] bribe to blind mine eyes therewith?"** This highly specific question targets judicial corruption. Accepting a bribe was a severe offense that perverted justice, making a judge incapable of impartial judgment. Samuel's challenge signifies his absolute integrity in legal matters, asserting that his decisions were never swayed by illicit payments but always by righteousness.
* **"and I will restore it you."** This concluding phrase demonstrates Samuel's commitment to restitution. It is not merely a rhetorical flourish but a genuine offer to rectify any wrong, however small, that the people might genuinely prove against him. This willingness to make amends further solidifies his claim of blamelessness and underscores his dedication to justice.

#### Literary Devices
Samuel's address in 1 Samuel 12:3 is rich with rhetorical power. The most prominent device is the use of **Rhetorical Questions**. Samuel poses a series of pointed questions not to elicit information, but to make a forceful, undeniable assertion of his innocence and integrity. These questions are designed to challenge the people to find fault, knowing that they cannot, thereby highlighting his blameless record. This technique also serves to engage the audience directly, compelling them to acknowledge his righteousness. Furthermore, there is clear **Parallelism** in the structure of his inquiries ("whose ox... or whose ass...", "whom have I defrauded? whom have I oppressed?"). This repetition with variation creates a rhythmic emphasis, covering various categories of injustice (property theft, general mistreatment, judicial corruption) and reinforcing the comprehensive nature of his blameless conduct. Finally, there is an element of **Irony** at play. Samuel, the faithful judge who has served God and Israel blamelessly, is publicly vindicating himself before a people who have just rejected God's direct rule in favor of a human king. His integrity stands in stark contrast to their spiritual infidelity and the potential for corruption in the new monarchy, implicitly serving as both a model and a warning.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Samuel's self-vindication in 1 Samuel 12:3 offers a profound theological statement on the nature of righteous leadership and human accountability before God. It illustrates that true authority, especially within God's covenant people, must be characterized by integrity, justice, and selflessness, reflecting the very character of God, who is just and righteous in all His ways ([Psalm 145:17](/psalms/145-17 "Psalm 145:17 - The Lord is Righteous in All His Ways")). Samuel's willingness to be scrutinized publicly underscores the biblical principle that leaders are stewards, not owners, of their power, and are ultimately accountable to the divine King. His blamelessness serves as a prophetic standard for all future rulers of Israel, including the kings, reminding them that their legitimacy and success depend not on military might or political cunning, but on their moral uprightness and adherence to God's law. This passage thus becomes a timeless call for all who hold positions of influence, whether in the church, government, or society, to live lives that can withstand scrutiny and honor God.

* [Exodus 23:8](/exodus/23-8 "Exodus 23:8 - Do Not Take a Bribe")
* [Proverbs 29:2](/proverbs/29-2 "Proverbs 29:2 - When the Righteous Rule")
* [Deuteronomy 16:19](/deuteronomy/16-19 "Deuteronomy 16:19 - Judges Must Not Take Bribes")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Samuel's bold declaration in 1 Samuel 12:3 serves as a timeless paradigm for living a life of demonstrable integrity, particularly for those in positions of leadership or influence, but also for every believer. It challenges us to consider the quality of our own witness before God and humanity. Just as Samuel could invite public scrutiny, we are called to live lives that are transparent and above reproach, not seeking personal gain but faithfully stewarding whatever responsibilities God has entrusted to us. This means cultivating a character marked by honesty, fairness, and a steadfast refusal to compromise our values for convenience or profit. In a world often characterized by corruption and self-interest, Samuel's example reminds us that true influence is built on trust, which is earned through consistent, righteous conduct. It encourages us to be accountable for our actions, to be willing to admit fault if necessary, and to strive for a clear conscience before God and others, reflecting the righteousness we have received in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life, personal or professional, am I called to demonstrate greater integrity and transparency?**
* **How does Samuel's willingness to invite scrutiny challenge my own comfort with accountability?**
* **What "oxen" or "asses" (i.e., resources, opportunities, or power) might I be tempted to misuse or exploit, and how can I guard against such temptations?**
* **How can I actively resist the subtle or overt "bribes" (any form of compromise or self-interest) that might blind my eyes to truth and justice in my daily interactions?**

### FAQ

**Why did Samuel feel the need to vindicate himself publicly?**

Answer: Samuel's public self-vindication was crucial for several reasons. First, it was a formal act of stepping down from his judicial office, similar to a public audit, ensuring that his legacy as a righteous leader was clear before the people and God. Second, it provided a stark contrast to the corrupt leadership of Eli's sons ([1 Samuel 2:12-17](/1_samuel/2-12 "1 Samuel 2:12-17 - The Wickedness of Eli's Sons")) and implicitly warned the newly established monarchy under King Saul against similar abuses of power. By demonstrating his own blamelessness, Samuel set a high moral standard for the kings who would follow, emphasizing that true authority must be exercised with integrity and justice.

**What is the significance of the specific questions Samuel asks (ox, ass, defrauded, oppressed, bribe)?**

Answer: The questions Samuel poses are highly significant because they address common abuses of power by those in authority in ancient Israel. Taking an "ox" or "ass" refers to theft or extortion of vital property in an agrarian society, which could cripple a family's livelihood. "Defrauding" and "oppressing" encompass broader categories of unjust treatment, exploitation, and harsh rule. The question about receiving a "bribe to blind mine eyes" directly targets judicial corruption, which was explicitly forbidden in Mosaic Law ([Exodus 23:8](/exodus/23-8 "Exodus 23:8 - Do Not Take a Bribe")). By addressing these specific points, Samuel comprehensively covers the major ways in which a leader could exploit or harm the people, thereby affirming his complete innocence of any such wrongdoing.

**How is Samuel's declaration relevant to believers today?**

Answer: Samuel's declaration is profoundly relevant today as a model for integrity, transparency, and accountability in all spheres of life. For leaders, it sets a standard of selfless service and righteous stewardship, reminding them that their authority is a trust from God. For all believers, it encourages living a life that honors God in every interaction, demonstrating honesty, fairness, and a commitment to justice. It challenges us to examine our own conduct, ensuring that our actions can withstand scrutiny and that we are not swayed by self-interest or corruption, but rather reflect the character of Christ in our daily lives ([1 Peter 2:12](/1_peter/2-12 "1 Peter 2:12 - Live Honorably Among Gentiles")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Samuel's blameless self-vindication in 1 Samuel 12:3, while a testament to his remarkable integrity, ultimately foreshadows the perfect and absolute righteousness of Jesus Christ. Samuel, a faithful servant, could challenge his accusers, but his righteousness was still human and relative. In contrast, Jesus, the true and ultimate "anointed one" (Messiah), could declare, "Which of you convicts me of sin?" ([John 8:46](/john/8-46 "John 8:46 - Jesus' Challenge to His Accusers")) and truly no one could. Samuel's willingness to be scrutinized before the LORD and "his anointed" points to Christ's perfect life and His ultimate submission to the Father's will, even unto death. While Samuel was a judge who administered justice, Christ is the perfect Judge who perfectly upholds divine justice and offers mercy. Samuel's integrity in not taking oxen, asses, or bribes, and in not defrauding or oppressing, highlights the moral purity required of a true leader. This finds its complete fulfillment in Jesus, who "committed no sin, nor was any deceit found in his mouth" ([1 Peter 2:22](/1_peter/2-22 "1 Peter 2:22 - Christ's Sinless Example")), and who, unlike any human leader, truly "did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" ([Matthew 20:28](/matthew/20-28 "Matthew 20:28 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Samuel's blamelessness, therefore, serves as a dim reflection of the spotless Lamb of God, who alone is perfectly righteous and worthy to be our King and Savior ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

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

Acts 20:33

I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.

Numbers 16:15

And Moses was very wroth, and said unto the LORD, Respect not thou their offering: I have not taken one ass from them, neither have I hurt one of them.

1 Samuel 24:6

And he said unto his men, The LORD forbid that I should do this thing unto my master, the LORD'S anointed, to stretch forth mine hand against him, seeing he [is] the anointed of the LORD.

1 Peter 5:2

Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight [thereof], not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;

Deuteronomy 16:19

Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.

1 Thessalonians 2:10

Ye [are] witnesses, and God [also], how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:

1 Samuel 12:5

And he said unto them, The LORD [is] witness against you, and his anointed [is] witness this day, that ye have not found ought in my hand. And they answered, [He is] witness.