What number verse is 1 Samuel 9:2 in the Bible?

1 Samuel 9:2 is the 7,394th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — 1 Samuel 9:2 sits at position 7,394.

Translation

King James Version

And he had a son, whose name was Saul, a choice young man, and a goodly: and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people.

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KJV (with Strong's)

And he had a son ^H1121, whose name ^H8034 was Saul ^H7586, a choice young man ^H970, and a goodly ^H2896: and there was not among the children ^H1121 of Israel ^H3478 a goodlier ^H2896 person ^H376 than he: from his shoulders ^H7926 and upward ^H4605 he was higher ^H1364 than any of the people ^H5971.

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Complete Jewish Bible

He had a son named Sha'ul who was young and good-looking; among the people of Isra'el there was no one better-looking than he; he stood head and shoulders taller than anyone else in Isra'el.

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Berean Standard Bible

And he had a son named Saul, choice and handsome, without equal among the Israelites—a head taller than any of the people.

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American Standard Version

And he had a son, whose name was Saul, a young man and a goodly: and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people.

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World English Bible Messianic

He had a son, whose name was Saul, an impressive young man; and there was not among the children of Israel a better person than he. From his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And he had a sonne called Saul, a goodly yong man and a faire: so that among the children of Israel there was none goodlier then he: from the shoulders vpwarde he was hier then any of the people.

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Young's Literal Translation

and he hath a son, and his name is Saul, a choice youth and goodly, and there is not a man among the sons of Israel goodlier than he--from his shoulder and upward, higher than any of the people.

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Samuel 9:2 introduces Saul, the son of Kish, as a man of extraordinary physical attributes and striking appearance, meticulously setting the stage for his anointing as Israel's inaugural king. This verse highlights his exceptional height and handsomeness, making him conspicuously stand out among all the Israelites. This description perfectly aligns with the people's human desire for a visibly strong, imposing, and charismatic leader, subtly foreshadowing the initial success and eventual tragic failure of a reign founded more on outward qualities and human preference than on inward character and unwavering obedience to God.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse serves as the immediate and pivotal introduction of Saul within the broader narrative of 1 Samuel. It follows the brief genealogical account of Kish and his family in 1 Samuel 9:1 and directly precedes the divinely orchestrated incident of the lost donkeys, which providentially leads Saul to Samuel. The detailed physical description here is not merely incidental; it is foundational to understanding the people's subsequent enthusiastic acceptance of Saul as king, as vividly depicted when he is presented to them in 1 Samuel 10:23-24. The narrative flow emphasizes how Saul's impressive stature makes him the obvious, humanly preferred candidate, initiating the transition from the era of judges to a monarchy.
Historical & Cultural Context: Israel was undergoing a profound societal and political transformation, shifting from a decentralized tribal confederacy under charismatic judges to a centralized monarchy. This transition was largely driven by the people's explicit demand for a king "like all the nations" (1 Samuel 8:5), rejecting God's direct rule. In the ancient Near East, kings were frequently expected to embody physical prowess, strength, and an imposing presence, serving as visible symbols of their nation's power and military might. A tall, handsome leader would naturally inspire confidence, project authority, and command respect, particularly in military engagements. Saul's description in this verse perfectly encapsulates these prevailing cultural expectations, providing the rationale for his immediate popularity and why he would be such a compelling choice for a people seeking a tangible, humanly impressive monarch.
Key Themes: This verse is deeply interwoven with several critical themes developed throughout 1 Samuel. Foremost, it powerfully introduces the theme of human versus divine standards of judgment, starkly contrasting Saul's impressive outward appearance with God's later, radically different criterion for leadership: the heart. This contrast is most explicitly articulated in God's rejection of Saul and selection of David, where the Lord declares, "For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). It also illuminates the nature of kingship as initially perceived by the Israelites—a focus on physical might, worldly stature, and charismatic presence, rather than spiritual leadership, humble dependence on God, and unwavering obedience. Furthermore, the verse subtly explores the interplay of divine providence and human choice, demonstrating how God can sovereignly work through the people's flawed desires and superficial criteria to initiate His broader plan for the monarchy, even if the initial choice is based on humanly impressive, yet ultimately insufficient, qualities. Saul's physical prominence sets the stage for a reign that begins with immense promise but ultimately falters due to a profound lack of spiritual depth and obedience.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Son (Hebrew, bên', H1121): From the root meaning "to build," this word signifies a son as a builder or perpetuator of the family name. In this context, it establishes Saul's lineage and identity as a direct descendant of Kish, emphasizing his place within the tribal structure of Israel and his role in continuing his family line, which would now extend to the royal line.
Choice (Hebrew, bâchûwr', H970): This term, derived from a verb meaning "to select," describes Saul as "selected" or "chosen." It implies that he was a prime, outstanding individual, not only in his physical appearance but also in his vigor and suitability for leadership, being in the prime of his youth. He was a man singled out from his peers, embodying the ideal of a young, capable male.
Goodly (Hebrew, ṭôwb', H2896): This versatile adjective means "good" in the widest sense, encompassing "beautiful," "pleasant," or "favorable." Applied to Saul, it emphasizes his handsome and pleasing aesthetic qualities, suggesting a universally recognized attractiveness that made him appealing to the eye and generally well-regarded. The repetition of this word ("goodlier") underscores his unparalleled handsomeness.
Higher (Hebrew, gâbôahh', H1364): This adjective denotes being "elevated," "high," or "tall." The precise phrase "from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people" is a vivid and specific description of Saul's extraordinary height, literally making him stand out "head and shoulders" above everyone else in Israel. This physical distinction made him conspicuously visible and inherently commanding.

Verse Breakdown

"And he had a son, whose name [was] Saul": This opening clause directly introduces the central figure of the immediate narrative, Saul, immediately identifying him as the son of Kish. This concise introduction establishes his familial connection and sets the stage for his emergence as a significant character.
"a choice young man, and a goodly": This phrase offers the initial characterization of Saul, highlighting two key attributes. He is presented as being in the prime of his life, vigorous and robust ("choice young man"), and possessing a pleasing, handsome appearance ("goodly"). These qualities immediately distinguish him as an exceptional individual.
"and [there was] not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he": This is a superlative declaration, intensifying the previous description of Saul's appearance. It emphatically states that his handsomeness and overall pleasing aesthetic were unparalleled among all the people of Israel, making him uniquely attractive and singularly appealing in the eyes of the populace.
"from his shoulders and upward [he was] higher than any of the people": This provides the most striking and specific detail of Saul's physical description, emphasizing his extraordinary height. It paints a vivid picture of a man who literally towered over everyone else, making him physically imposing, easily identifiable, and naturally commanding attention in any crowd or assembly.

Literary Devices

The verse masterfully employs several potent literary devices to convey Saul's exceptional qualities and set the stage for his narrative. Hyperbole is prominently featured in the declarations that there was "not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he" and that he was "higher than any of the people." These deliberate exaggerations serve to emphasize Saul's extraordinary physical attributes, making him appear almost superhuman in his perfection and explaining the people's immediate and enthusiastic acceptance of him as king. The verse also functions as powerful foreshadowing, hinting at Saul's initial success and popularity, which are largely attributable to his impressive outward appearance. This subtly sets up the later, profound contrast with God's true standard for leadership, which prioritizes the heart and obedience over outward show. There is a significant element of irony at play, as the physically ideal king chosen by human preference will ultimately fail due to spiritual deficiencies, while God's later choice, David, will be described as unassuming in appearance but possessing a heart after God's own. Finally, Saul's towering height can be seen as potent symbolism, representing the people's desire for an imposing, humanly powerful king who could lead them militarily and project strength, rather than a king who would humbly depend on divine guidance and spiritual strength.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This verse delivers a profound theological statement on the inherent disparity between human judgment and divine discernment. It introduces a king chosen primarily by human standards, where outward appearance, physical prowess, and charismatic stature are prioritized. This sets up a crucial and recurring contrast with God's later selection of David, powerfully emphasizing the truth that "the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). The subsequent narrative of Saul's reign, which commences with such physical promise and widespread popular acclaim, ultimately serves as a poignant cautionary tale against valuing superficial qualities over true character, unwavering obedience, and a humble heart fully devoted to God. It underscores the timeless biblical principle that true leadership, in God's eyes, is not predicated on impressive stature or human charisma, but on spiritual integrity, faithful adherence to His commands, and a deep, abiding relationship with Him.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The introduction of Saul in 1 Samuel 9:2 serves as a timeless and profound reminder that initial impressions, particularly those based on physical attributes, outward charisma, or superficial achievements, can be incredibly powerful but are often deeply misleading and ultimately insufficient. While Saul possessed impressive external qualities that made him a natural choice in the eyes of the people, his subsequent story vividly reveals that true leadership, lasting favor with God, and genuine success depend not merely on appearance or stature, but on obedience, humility, and a heart fully devoted to the Lord. This verse challenges us to look beyond the surface in our evaluations of people—whether in leadership roles, friendships, or personal relationships—and to diligently seek qualities of character, integrity, and spiritual depth that align with God's eternal values. It encourages us to cultivate an inner beauty of spirit, a heart that is pleasing to God, rather than striving primarily for external validation or human approval. It also prompts critical self-reflection: are we seeking to impress others with our outward presentation or achievements, or are we diligently cultivating a heart that is truly pleasing to God, knowing that He sees beyond the façade and into the depths of our being?

Questions for Reflection

How often do I find myself prioritizing outward appearances or superficial qualities over inner character and integrity in my judgments of others or even in my self-perception?
What qualities do I truly value in leaders, and how do those values align with God's standards as consistently revealed throughout Scripture?
In what specific ways might my own "impressive" qualities, talents, or achievements inadvertently hinder my full dependence on God and subtly foster pride within my heart?

FAQ

Why is Saul's physical description so detailed in this verse?

Answer: Saul's detailed physical description in 1 Samuel 9:2 is crucial because it provides the immediate and compelling explanation for why he was the popular and seemingly ideal choice for Israel's first king. In the ancient Near Eastern cultural context, which valued strength, imposing presence, and visible leadership, Saul's towering height and handsome appearance made him the quintessential candidate in the eyes of the people. This deliberate emphasis on his outward qualities serves to set up a profound theological contrast with God's later selection of David, who was chosen for his heart, not his physical stature or outward impressiveness (1 Samuel 16:7). It highlights the pervasive human tendency to judge by external factors, a perspective that often diverges sharply from God's divine and discerning gaze.

Does God care about physical appearance?

Answer: While God is the sovereign Creator of all beauty, including physical beauty, the Bible consistently teaches that He prioritizes the heart, character, and obedience over outward appearance. This verse, especially when understood in contrast with the narrative of David's selection in 1 Samuel 16, powerfully illustrates that human judgment based on physical appearance often differs significantly from God's. God's ultimate concern is with our inner being, our motives, our faithfulness, our humility, and our devotion to Him, as He "looks on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). While physical attributes are part of His creation, they are not the primary criteria for His favor or for true spiritual leadership.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The introduction of Saul in 1 Samuel 9:2, a king chosen by human preference for his impressive physical stature and worldly appeal, powerfully foreshadows the coming of the true King, Jesus Christ, by striking contrast. Saul represents the kind of king Israel initially desired—one who was visibly "head and shoulders" above others, a symbol of worldly power, human strength, and outward charisma. Yet, the New Testament reveals that God's divinely chosen King, Jesus, did not come with such worldly impressiveness. Isaiah 53:2 prophetically describes the Suffering Servant as having "no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him." Jesus's kingship is not founded on physical might, human charisma, or earthly grandeur, but on divine authority, profound humility (Philippians 2:5-8), and perfect, unwavering obedience to the Father. He is the ultimate "choice one" (1 Peter 2:4), chosen by God Himself, whose true "goodliness" is found not in outward appearance but in His sinless character, His sacrificial love demonstrated on the cross (John 15:13), and His spiritual reign over the hearts of His people, establishing a kingdom "not of this world" (John 18:36). Jesus perfectly fulfills the need for a perfect King who rules by divine standard, not human, ultimately demonstrating that God's thoughts and ways are infinitely "higher than our ways" (Isaiah 55:8-9).

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Commentary on 1 Samuel 9 verses 1–2

1 ¶ Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a mighty man of power.

2 And he had a son, whose name was Saul, a choice young man, and a goodly: and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people.

We are here told, 1. What a good family Saul was of, Sa1 9:1. He was of the tribe of Benjamin; so was the New Testament Saul, who also was called Paul, and he mentions it as his honour, for Benjamin was a favourite, Rom 11:1; Phi 3:5. That tribe had been reduced to a very small number by the fatal war with Gibeah, and much ado there was to provide wives for those 600 men that were the poor remains of it out of that diminished tribe, which is here called, with good reason, the smallest of the tribes of Israel, Sa1 9:21. Saul sprang as a root out of a dry ground. That tribe, though fewest in number, was first in dignity, God giving more abundant honour to that part which lacked, Co1 12:24. His father was Kish, a mighty man of power, or, as the margin reads it, in substance; in spirit bold, in body strong, in estate wealthy. The whole lot of the tribe of Benjamin coming to be distributed among 600 men, we may suppose their inheritances were much larger than theirs who were of other tribes, an advantage which somewhat helped to balance the disadvantage of the smallness of their number. 2. What a good figure Saul made, Sa1 9:2. No mention is here made of his wisdom or virtue, his learning or piety, or any of the accomplishments of his mind, but that he was a tall, proper, handsome man, that had a good face, a good shape, and a good presence, graceful and well proportioned: Among all the children of Israel there was not a goodlier person than he; and, as if nature had marked him for preeminence and superiority, he was taller by the head and shoulders than any of the people, the fitter to be a match for the giants of Gath, the champions of the Philistines. When God chose a king after his own heart he pitched upon one that was not at all remarkable for the height of his stature, nor any thing in his countenance but the innocence and sweetness that appeared there, Sa1 16:7, Sa1 16:12. But when he chose a king after the people's heart, who aimed at nothing so much as stateliness and grandeur, he pitched upon this huge tall man, who, if he had no other good qualities, yet would look great. It does not appear that he excelled in strength so much as he did in stature; Samson did, and him they slighted, bound, and betrayed into the hands of the Philistines; justly therefore are they now put off with one who, though of uncommon height, is weak as other men. They would have a king like the nations, and the nations commonly chose portly men for their kings.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–2. Public domain.

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JeromeAD 420

HOMILIES ON THE PSALMS 3 (PS 7)

The name Benjamin is a combination, then, of two words, son and right hand: ben means “son” and jamin means “right hand.”Let us remember once for all that the tribe of Benjamin was called Jemini. We read in the book of Kings [Samuel], where it speaks of Saul, the words “Now there was a man of Benjamin whose name was Saul, the son of Kish, the son of Abiel, son of Jethra, son of Jether, son of Gera, son of Jemini,” and immediately following, it says, a man of Jemini, that is, from the tribe of Jemini, or Benjamin. … Now why have I said all this? To show that the tribe of Jemini was the tribe of Benjamin.

BedeAD 735

Commentary on Samuel

And he had a son named Saul, etc. For he who is of the earth is from the earth, and speaks of the earth: he who comes from heaven is above all; who did not commit sin, nor was deceit found in his mouth (John III; 1 Peter II). But also the name Saul, which means "desired" or "petition," most fittingly applies to Christ, who is always implored with great desire by the saints and is asked to be present. Likewise, the name of his father Cis, that is, "stern," also alludes to mysteries; whether it signifies God the Father, or David, or Abraham, or any other of the fathers, from whom Christ is according to the flesh. For that nature is stern, which not only cannot be conquered or changed, but also cannot be comprehended by any created nature. It is stern in the strictness of judgment to the reprobate, but through the grace of mercy is kind to the good. For it is said of these: “How good is God to Israel, to those who are pure in heart” (Psalm XXII)! But of those, it is said: “Your almighty word leapt down from heaven, from the royal throne, as a stern warrior into the midst of the land of destruction” (Wisdom XVIII); and in temptations, the faithful hearts of the good are stern, to whom under the guise of Ezekiel it is said: “Behold, I have made your face stronger than their faces, and your forehead stronger than their foreheads; like adamant, harder than flint have I made it” (Ezekiel III).

Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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Cross-References

Numbers 13:33
And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight.
Genesis 6:2
That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose.
1 Samuel 16:7
But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.
2 Samuel 14:25
But in all Israel there was none to be so much praised as Absalom for his beauty: from the sole of his foot even to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him.
2 Samuel 14:26
And when he polled his head, (for it was at every year's end that he polled it: because the hair was heavy on him, therefore he polled it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two hundred shekels after the king's weight.
1 Samuel 17:4
And there went out a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span.
Jeremiah 9:23
¶ Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: