1 Samuel 15:29

KJV

And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he [is] not a man, that he should repent.

KJV (with Strong's)

And also the Strength {H5331} of Israel {H3478} will not lie {H8266} nor repent {H5162}: for he is not a man {H120}, that he should repent {H5162}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moreover, the Eternal One of Isra'el will not lie or change his mind, because he isn't a mere human being subject to changing his mind."

Berean Standard Bible

Moreover, the Glory of Israel does not lie or change His mind, for He is not a man, that He should change His mind.”

American Standard Version

And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent; for he is not a man, that he should repent.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 15:29 delivers a profound declaration from the prophet Samuel to King Saul, spoken at the critical juncture when God had decisively rejected Saul's kingship due to his profound disobedience. This verse powerfully articulates the immutable nature of God, asserting that "the Strength of Israel" is utterly reliable, incapable of falsehood, and does not change His mind or regret His decrees in the way fallible humans do. It underscores the finality of divine judgment against rebellion and highlights the stark contrast between God's perfect steadfastness and humanity's fickle nature.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the climactic pronouncement within a deeply tragic narrative detailing King Saul's irreversible downfall. The preceding verses of [1 Samuel 15](/1_samuel/15 "1 Samuel 15 - Saul's Disobedience and Rejection") recount God's explicit command to Saul to utterly destroy the Amalekites, including all their livestock, as an act of divinely ordained judgment. Saul, however, disobeys by sparing King Agag and the choicest of the sheep and oxen, rationalizing his actions as an intention to offer sacrifices to the Lord. Samuel confronts Saul, denouncing his partial obedience as outright rebellion, equating it to the sin of witchcraft and idolatry, which incurs divine wrath, as stated in [1 Samuel 15:23](/1_samuel/15-23 "1 Samuel 15:23 - Rebellion as Witchcraft"). Saul's desperate attempts to justify himself and cling to his kingship are met with Samuel's unwavering declaration of God's irrevocable judgment: the kingdom would be torn from him. Amidst Saul's pleas and a final, symbolic tearing of Samuel's robe, the prophet delivers this powerful theological statement, emphasizing the unchangeable nature of the divine decree.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The command to utterly destroy the Amalekites (known as *cherem* or "devotion to destruction") was a specific, divinely ordained act of judgment against a people who had historically opposed Israel from their exodus, as recorded in [Exodus 17:8-16](/exodus/17-8 "Exodus 17:8-16 - Amalek Attacks Israel"). Saul's failure to execute this command fully was not merely a tactical error but a direct act of rebellion against God's sovereign authority, demonstrating a greater concern for popular approval and personal gain than for divine obedience. In ancient Near Eastern kingship, a king's authority was often seen as derived from the gods, but in Israel, the king was explicitly God's vice-regent, bound by covenant and divine law. Samuel, as God's prophet, held the authority to declare God's will and judgment, even over the king. The concept of God "repenting" (Hebrew: *nacham*) when applied to the divine character, particularly in this context, does not imply regret or a change of mind due to error, as it would for a human. Instead, it refers to a change in God's *dealing* with humanity based on their actions, or a cessation of a specific judgment or intention, always consistent with His eternal character and purpose. Here, it emphasizes the finality of God's judgment against Saul, contrasting it with human fickleness.

* **Key Themes:** The verse encapsulates several crucial theological and narrative themes. Foremost is the theme of **God's Immutability**, asserting that God's character, promises, and decrees are steadfast and unchangeable, providing a bedrock of certainty in a world of flux. This directly relates to **Divine Reliability and Truthfulness**, highlighting that "the Strength of Israel will not lie," meaning God's word is absolutely dependable and His pronouncements are true and final. There is a sharp **Contrast Between God and Man**, explicitly stating, "for he is not a man, that he should repent." This differentiates the perfect, sovereign, and unchanging God from fallible, inconsistent, and regretful humanity. While God may "relent" from a threatened judgment in response to human repentance (as seen in [Jonah 3:10](/jonah/3-10 "Jonah 3:10 - God Relents from Judgment")), this is a change in His *action* consistent with His justice and mercy, not a change in His inherent nature or eternal purpose. In Saul's case, the judgment was irrevocable. Finally, the verse powerfully underscores the **Consequences of Disobedience**, demonstrating that rebellion against God's explicit commands carries severe and unalterable repercussions, even for a divinely appointed king, affirming God's justice and sovereignty over His chosen leaders.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Strength (Hebrew, _netsach'_):** From H5331 (נֵצַח), this word properly refers to a goal, i.e., the bright object at a distance traveled towards; hence (figuratively), splendor, or (subjectively) truthfulness, or (objectively) confidence; but usually (adverbially), continually (i.e., to the most distant point of view); alway(-s), constantly, end, ([phrase] n-) ever(more), perpetual, strength, victory. When applied to God as "the Strength of Israel," it signifies not merely physical might but His enduring, eternal, and unassailable character. It speaks to God's steadfastness, His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant, and His ultimate triumph. It implies that God's nature is one of absolute permanence and reliability, the very foundation of Israel's existence and hope.
* **lie (Hebrew, _shâqar'_):** From H8266 (שָׁקַר), a primitive root meaning to cheat, i.e., to be untrue (usually in words); fail, deal falsely, lie. In this context, it emphatically states that God is utterly incapable of falsehood. Unlike humans who might lie, break promises, or prove unreliable, God's word is always true, and His decrees are always fulfilled. This reinforces His absolute integrity and trustworthiness, contrasting sharply with Saul's deceptive partial obedience.
* **repent (Hebrew, _nâcham'_):** From H5162 (נָחַם), a primitive root meaning properly, to sigh, i.e., breathe strongly; by implication, to be sorry, i.e., (in a favorable sense) to pity, console or (reflexively) rue; or (unfavorably) to avenge (oneself); comfort (self), ease (one's self), repent(-er,-ing, self). When used of God, particularly in contexts like this, it is an anthropomorphism—attributing a human characteristic to God to help human understanding. However, the verse immediately negates the human implication: "for he is not a man, that he should repent." This clarifies that God does not "repent" in the sense of regretting a mistake, changing His inherent character, or altering His eternal purpose due to new information or weakness. Instead, in this specific instance, it signifies the unalterable nature of His decree against Saul. God's judgments and promises are fixed and final, not subject to the wavering emotions or fallibility of humanity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And also the Strength of Israel":** This majestic title refers to God Himself, emphasizing His enduring power, faithfulness, and the unyielding nature of His character. It highlights that the divine being who has established and sustained Israel is the one whose word is now being declared, underscoring the authority and reliability of the pronouncement.
* **"will not lie nor repent":** This double negative affirmation powerfully asserts God's absolute truthfulness and immutability. He is incapable of speaking falsely or breaking His word. Furthermore, He does not change His mind in a way that implies regret, error, or inconsistency, especially concerning His declared judgments or purposes. This phrase sets God apart from all human fallibility and unreliability.
* **"for he [is] not a man, that he should repent":** This concluding clause serves as the theological explanation and justification for the preceding statement. It draws a sharp, definitive distinction between the divine and the human. Human beings are fallible, prone to error, regret, and changing their minds based on new circumstances or weaknesses. God, however, is transcendent, perfect, and sovereign; His knowledge is complete, His will is perfect, and His decrees are eternal. Therefore, His "repentance" (or lack thereof, in this case) is fundamentally different from human repentance, signifying the unchanging nature of His righteous judgment, which is not subject to reconsideration.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its profound theological truth. **Anthropomorphism** is evident in the use of human actions like "lie" and "repent" being applied to God, which helps human understanding of divine attributes. However, this is immediately followed by a strong **Negation** ("will not lie nor repent") and a clarifying **Contrast** ("for he is not a man, that he should repent"). This contrast is the most prominent device, sharply differentiating God's perfect, unchanging nature from the inherent fallibility and changeability of humanity. The repetition of the concept of "repent" further emphasizes the finality and irrevocability of God's decision regarding Saul. Furthermore, the title "the Strength of Israel" functions as a **Metonymy** or **Epithet** for God, powerfully encapsulating His enduring power, faithfulness, and reliability, which stands in stark opposition to Saul's demonstrated unreliability and lack of spiritual strength. The entire statement acts as a **Divine Oracle**, a direct, authoritative pronouncement from God through His prophet, carrying absolute weight and finality.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The declaration in 1 Samuel 15:29 is a cornerstone text for understanding God's immutability and absolute reliability. It assures us that God's character is consistent, His promises are unbreakable, and His purposes are unswerving. While the Bible sometimes speaks of God "relenting" or "repenting" (e.g., in response to human repentance, as in the case of Nineveh), these instances must be understood in light of His unchanging nature. They reflect a change in His *dealings* with humanity based on their actions, not a change in His inherent character or eternal will. In Saul's case, the judgment was a fixed consequence of persistent rebellion, illustrating that God's justice is as unwavering as His mercy. This verse provides immense comfort for those who trust in God's promises, knowing He cannot lie, and a solemn warning for those who disregard His commands.

* [Numbers 23:19](/numbers/23-19 "Numbers 23:19 - God is not a man, that he should lie")
* [Malachi 3:6](/malachi/3-6 "Malachi 3:6 - God does not change")
* [James 1:17](/james/1-17 "James 1:17 - God, the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The profound truth that "the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent" offers both immense comfort and a serious challenge for believers today. In a world characterized by uncertainty, broken promises, and shifting values, the unchanging nature of God provides an unshakeable anchor for our faith. We can fully trust His word, His promises of salvation, forgiveness, and eternal life, knowing that He is utterly dependable. This should cultivate a deep sense of security and peace in our relationship with Him, freeing us from anxiety about God's faithfulness. Simultaneously, the verse serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness of obedience and the consequences of rebellion. Just as Saul faced irreversible judgment for his partial obedience and self-serving actions, we are called to wholehearted submission to God's will. Our faith is not merely intellectual assent but is demonstrated through a life of active, sincere obedience, recognizing that God's standards are not arbitrary but flow from His perfect, righteous character. This understanding should lead us to greater reverence, humility, and a fervent desire to align our lives fully with His unchanging purposes, knowing that His decrees, whether of blessing or judgment, are final and true.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the immutability of God, as declared in this verse, impact your trust in His promises for your life and your future?**
* **In what areas of your life might you be tempted to offer "partial obedience" to God, similar to Saul, and what are the potential consequences of such a posture?**
* **How does understanding God's unchanging nature deepen your reverence for Him and influence your approach to prayer and decision-making in daily life?**
* **When faced with difficult circumstances or unanswered prayers, how can the truth that God "will not lie nor repent" provide comfort and steadfast hope, even when His ways are mysterious?**

### FAQ
**Does God ever "repent" or "change His mind" in other parts of the Bible, and how does that reconcile with this verse?**

Answer: This is a common and important question. The Hebrew word for "repent" (*nacham*) can indeed be used in other biblical contexts to describe God "relenting" or "changing His mind" (e.g., [Jonah 3:10](/jonah/3-10 "Jonah 3:10 - God relents from judgment on Nineveh"), [Jeremiah 18:8](/jeremiah/18-8 "Jeremiah 18:8 - God relents from disaster")). However, it's crucial to understand this through the lens of God's unchanging character, as affirmed in [Malachi 3:6](/malachi/3-6 "Malachi 3:6 - God does not change") and [James 1:17](/james/1-17 "James 1:17 - No variation or shadow due to change"). When God "relents," it does not imply regret over a mistake, a change in His inherent nature, or an alteration of His eternal purpose. Rather, it signifies a change in His *dealings* with humanity based on their response. For instance, if a people turn from their wickedness, God, in His consistent mercy and justice, may "relent" from a threatened judgment. In 1 Samuel 15:29, the context is God's irrevocable judgment on Saul for persistent rebellion, emphasizing that God's *decree* against Saul's kingship was final and not subject to reconsideration based on human pleading or manipulation. Here, "repent" signifies a change of *purpose* or *decree* that God, unlike fallible humans, does not experience, especially when His righteous judgment has been fully pronounced due to unrepentant sin.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The unchangeable nature of God, so powerfully declared in 1 Samuel 15:29, finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the tangible manifestation of the "Strength of Israel" who "will not lie nor repent." God's eternal plan of salvation, conceived before the foundation of the world, is perfectly executed in Christ, demonstrating that God's promises are not subject to human failure or divine reconsideration. As [2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - All God's promises are 'Yes' in Christ") proclaims, "For all the promises of God find their Yes in him." Jesus Himself is described as "the same yesterday and today and forever" ([Hebrews 13:8](/hebrews/13-8 "Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the same")), embodying the immutability of God's character in human form. Unlike Saul, who failed in obedience and faced rejection, Christ perfectly obeyed the Father, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/phil/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience unto Death")), thus establishing an unshakeable foundation for our redemption. His sacrifice is the unchangeable basis of our salvation, a covenant established not with human frailty but with divine faithfulness, securing eternal redemption for all who believe ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ entered once for all into the holy places")). Thus, 1 Samuel 15:29, while a solemn warning to Saul, ultimately points to the steadfast love and unwavering faithfulness of God, perfectly revealed and secured in His Son, Jesus Christ, who is the faithful and true witness of God's unchanging nature ([Revelation 3:14](/revelation/3-14 "Revelation 3:14 - The Amen, the faithful and true witness")).

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

Numbers 23:19

God [is] not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do [it]? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

Ezekiel 24:14

I the LORD have spoken [it]: it shall come to pass, and I will do [it]; I will not go back, neither will I spare, neither will I repent; according to thy ways, and according to thy doings, shall they judge thee, saith the Lord GOD.

Titus 1:2

In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;

2 Timothy 2:13

If we believe not, [yet] he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.

Hebrews 6:18

That by two immutable things, in which [it was] impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

Psalms 95:11

Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest.

Joel 3:16

The LORD also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the earth shall shake: but the LORD [will be] the hope of his people, and the strength of the children of Israel.