1 Samuel 9:7

KJV

Then said Saul to his servant, But, behold, [if] we go, what shall we bring the man? for the bread is spent in our vessels, and [there is] not a present to bring to the man of God: what have we?

KJV (with Strong's)

Then said {H559} Saul {H7586} to his servant {H5288}, But, behold, if we go {H3212}, what shall we bring {H935} the man {H376}? for the bread {H3899} is spent {H235} in our vessels {H3627}, and there is not a present {H8670} to bring {H935} to the man {H376} of God {H430}: what have we?

Complete Jewish Bible

"But look," Sha'ul said to his servant, "if we go to the man, what can we bring him? We've used up all the bread in our packs, and there's nothing for us to give the man of God - what do we have left?"

Berean Standard Bible

“If we do go,” Saul replied, “what can we give the man? For the bread in our packs is gone, and there is no gift to take to the man of God. What do we have?”

American Standard Version

Then said Saul to his servant, But, behold, if we go, what shall we bring the man? for the bread is spent in our vessels, and there is not a present to bring to the man of God: what have we?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 1 Samuel 9:7, Saul voices a practical concern to his servant regarding the customary practice of bringing a gift when seeking counsel from a prophet, specifically Samuel. He notes their provisions are entirely depleted, leaving them without a suitable present for the "man of God." This seemingly minor detail not only highlights Saul's humble circumstances at the outset of his journey but also providentially sets the stage for his divine encounter and anointing, powerfully demonstrating that God's sovereign plans are neither contingent upon human resources nor constrained by traditional customs.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of Saul's seemingly mundane search for his father's lost donkeys, a task that inadvertently but divinely leads him to the prophet Samuel. After an unsuccessful three-day search, Saul suggests returning home, but his servant proposes consulting a respected "man of God" in the nearby city, known for his prophetic insight and reliability, as described in [1 Samuel 9:6](/1_samuel/9-6 "1 Samuel 9:6 - Servant's Description of Samuel"). Saul's immediate concern in this verse centers on the traditional expectation of presenting a gift to the prophet, a custom he feels unable to fulfill due to their depleted provisions. This practical dilemma, however, serves as a crucial narrative pivot, setting the stage for the servant's ingenious solution (a quarter shekel of silver in [1 Samuel 9:8](/1_samuel/9-8 "1 Samuel 9:8 - Servant's Solution")) and the divinely orchestrated encounter that culminates in Saul's unexpected anointing as Israel's first king in [1 Samuel 10:1](/1_samuel/10-1 "1 Samuel 10:1 - Saul's Anointing as King").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, it was a widespread and deeply ingrained custom to bring a gift or tribute (Hebrew: _minchah_) when approaching a person of authority, especially a prophet or a diviner, to seek counsel or a word from the divine. This "present" was not merely a payment for services but a vital sign of respect, an acknowledgment of the recipient's status, and an act of honor, ensuring the interaction began on a respectful footing. Prophets like Samuel were highly esteemed figures, serving as spiritual guides, intercessors, and divine messengers whose insights were considered invaluable, often believed to be direct communications from God. Saul's concern in this verse highlights his family's current financial limitations, contrasting sharply with the societal expectation and subtly foreshadowing God's choice of an individual from humble means, rather than one of established wealth or power, to lead His people.
* **Key Themes:** The passage in [1 Samuel 9](/1_samuel/9 "1 Samuel 9 - Saul Meets Samuel") profoundly illustrates the theme of **Divine Providence**, where God's sovereign plan unfolds through seemingly ordinary circumstances and human limitations. Saul's search for lost donkeys, a mundane and frustrating task, becomes the divinely appointed path to his destiny, demonstrating God's ability to work in **Unexpected Ways**. The verse also highlights the **Humility of God's Chosen**, as Saul's concern over a lack of resources underscores his initial unassuming status, contrasting sharply with the kingly role he is about to receive. Furthermore, it subtly juxtaposes **Customary Practices with God's Sovereignty**, showing that while human traditions exist, God's ultimate will is not constrained by them, but rather transcends and orchestrates events according to His perfect timing and purpose, as seen in [Psalm 33:11](/psalms/33-11 "Psalm 33:11 - The Lord's Counsel Stands Forever") and [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "Proverbs 16:9 - Man Plans, God Directs").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Said (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** This primitive root (H559) is used with great latitude, meaning "to say," "to speak," or "to utter." In this context, it signifies Saul's direct verbalization of his concern to his servant, initiating the practical discussion about their lack of resources. It marks a shift in the narrative's focus from the servant's suggestion to Saul's pragmatic response.
* **Spent (Hebrew, _ʼâzal'_):** This primitive root (H235) means "to go away," and by implication, "to disappear" or "to fail." Here, it vividly describes the complete depletion of their provisions ("the bread is spent in our vessels"), emphasizing the extent of their lack and the practical dilemma Saul faces in fulfilling the customary expectation of bringing a gift. It conveys a sense of utter exhaustion of supplies.
* **Present (Hebrew, _tᵉshûwrâh'_):** From the root meaning "arrival" (H8670), this noun specifically refers to a "gift" or "tribute." In this context, it denotes the customary offering brought to honor someone, secure a favor, or acknowledge their status, particularly when seeking counsel from a prophet. Saul's lament highlights his inability to provide this culturally expected token of respect.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then said Saul to his servant":** This opening clause establishes Saul's initiative in the conversation, shifting from the servant's suggestion to consult Samuel to a practical consideration of their resources. It highlights Saul's pragmatic and responsible nature before his divine calling, showing him to be concerned with practicalities.
* **"But, behold, [if] we go, what shall we bring the man?":** Saul's immediate and primary concern is revealed here. The phrase "what shall we bring the man?" reflects the deeply ingrained cultural custom of not approaching an esteemed figure, especially a prophet, empty-handed. His hesitation is not about the prophet's ability, but about their own capacity to fulfill social expectations. The "behold" adds a sense of urgency or a sudden realization of the problem.
* **"for the bread is spent in our vessels":** This clause provides the concrete reason for Saul's dilemma. "Bread" (H3899, _lechem_) here represents their general food provisions, and "spent in our vessels" indicates that their supplies are entirely depleted. This detail underscores their humble and perhaps even impoverished circumstances during their extended search for the donkeys.
* **"and [there is] not a present to bring to the man of God: what have we?":** This final part of the verse reiterates and amplifies Saul's predicament. The "present" (H8670, _tᵉshûwrâh_) refers to the customary gift. The rhetorical question, "what have we?", powerfully conveys their complete lack of resources, emphasizing their inability to meet the cultural expectation and highlighting their dependence on whatever meager means they possessed. The "man of God" (H376, _ʼîysh_ H430, _ʼĕlôhîym_) emphasizes Samuel's revered status.

#### Literary Devices
The dialogue between Saul and his servant in [1 Samuel 9:7](/1_samuel/9-7 "1 Samuel 9:7 - Saul's Practical Concern") serves as a crucial **Literary Device**, not only advancing the plot towards the encounter with Samuel but also revealing Saul's character as a practical and responsible individual concerned with proper decorum. The **Rhetorical Question** "what have we?" effectively emphasizes the extent of their destitution, highlighting their inability to meet the customary expectation of bringing a gift. This moment is rich with **Dramatic Irony**, as Saul is preoccupied with a minor material offering, completely unaware that he is on the verge of receiving the immeasurable gift of the kingship of Israel, a divine appointment far exceeding any earthly present. This humble beginning also serves as **Foreshadowing**, subtly preparing the reader for God's pattern of choosing the unassuming and the overlooked, rather than the outwardly impressive, to fulfill His divine purposes, a theme echoed throughout biblical narrative.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse subtly but powerfully underscores a profound theological truth: God's sovereign plan is not contingent upon human resources, social customs, or material wealth. Saul's inability to provide a customary gift does not hinder God's divine appointment; rather, it highlights God's propensity to choose and elevate the humble and the unlikely. It demonstrates that God's ways often transcend human expectations and limitations, revealing His power to work through perceived weaknesses or lack. This principle reassures believers that their perceived inadequacies or lack of means do not disqualify them from God's purposes, but rather can become the very canvas upon which His glory is most vividly displayed, showcasing His power perfected in weakness.

* [2 Corinthians 12:9](/2_corinthians/12-9 "2 Corinthians 12:9 - God's Grace is Sufficient")
* [Luke 1:52](/luke/1-52 "Luke 1:52 - God Exalts the Humble")
* [Proverbs 16:33](/proverbs/16-33 "Proverbs 16:33 - The Lord Directs the Lot")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Saul's practical dilemma in [1 Samuel 9:7](/1_samuel/9-7 "1 Samuel 9:7 - Saul's Humble State") offers timeless insights for contemporary believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that God's purposes for our lives are not thwarted by our perceived limitations, financial constraints, or adherence to human customs. Just as Saul's lack of a gift did not prevent his divine appointment, our own feelings of inadequacy or lack of resources should not hinder our trust in God's ability to work through us. This passage encourages us to remain open to God's unexpected ways, recognizing that He often uses ordinary circumstances and seemingly insignificant details to guide us toward His extraordinary will. Furthermore, while the specific custom of bringing a gift to a prophet has evolved, the underlying principle of valuing and honoring those who provide spiritual guidance and wisdom remains pertinent, encouraging us to approach spiritual counsel with respect and a genuine desire to receive God's truth, understanding that true value lies not in what we bring, but in what God provides.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Saul's concern about lacking a gift resonate with your own anxieties about perceived inadequacies when God calls you to a task?**
* **Can you identify "mundane" circumstances in your life where God might be subtly orchestrating a divine appointment or guiding you toward His purpose?**
* **In what practical ways can we demonstrate honor and respect for spiritual leaders and the wisdom they offer in today's context, even when we feel we have little to give?**

### FAQ
**Why was it customary to bring a gift to a prophet in ancient Israel?**

Answer: It was a deeply ingrained cultural practice in the ancient Near East to bring a "present" (Hebrew: _minchah_) when seeking counsel from a person of authority, especially a prophet. This was not considered a bribe, but rather a gesture of respect, honor, and acknowledgment of the prophet's sacred role and the value of the divine insight they were expected to provide. It was a way to initiate the encounter on a respectful footing and to demonstrate the seeker's earnestness and reverence for the word of God spoken through the prophet. While the material value might have been small, the symbolic gesture was significant, as seen in Saul's concern in [1 Samuel 9:7](/1_samuel/9-7 "1 Samuel 9:7 - Saul's Concern Over a Gift").

**Does God's plan for us depend on our material resources or social standing?**

Answer: As [1 Samuel 9:7](/1_samuel/9-7 "1 Samuel 9:7 - Saul's Lack of Resources") clearly illustrates, God's sovereign plan for individuals and nations is not dependent on their material wealth, social standing, or perceived resources. In fact, the Bible often shows God choosing those who are humble, lacking, or overlooked by human standards to accomplish His greatest works, thereby ensuring that the glory belongs to Him alone (e.g., [1 Corinthians 1:27-29](/1_corinthians/1-27-29 "1 Corinthians 1:27-29 - God Chooses the Foolish and Weak")). Saul's inability to bring a present did not hinder his anointing; instead, it highlighted God's providential care and His ability to work through any circumstance to fulfill His divine purpose, demonstrating His power perfected in weakness.

**What is the significance of the title "man of God" for Samuel?**

Answer: The title "man of God" (Hebrew: _’ish ha’elohim_) is a highly significant designation in the Old Testament, applied to revered prophets like Moses, Elijah, Elisha, and here, Samuel. It signifies someone who is divinely appointed, consecrated to God's service, and speaks with God's authority. It emphasizes their intimate relationship with the Almighty and their role as a direct messenger of divine revelation. When Samuel is referred to as the "man of God," it immediately conveys his spiritual authority, integrity, and the reliability of his prophetic word, making his counsel highly sought after and respected by the people, as seen in [1 Samuel 9:6](/1_samuel/9-6 "1 Samuel 9:6 - Servant's Description of Samuel").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The seemingly minor detail of Saul's lack of a gift in [1 Samuel 9:7](/1_samuel/9-7 "1 Samuel 9:7 - Saul's Poverty") subtly points forward to the profound truth of God's ultimate provision in Jesus Christ. Just as Saul was chosen despite his humble circumstances and lack of material offering, God chose to send His Son, not to the powerful and wealthy, but to a world impoverished by sin, born in humble conditions ([Luke 2:7](/luke/2-7 "Luke 2:7 - Jesus Born in a Manger")). Jesus Himself is the ultimate "present" or offering, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), a perfect sacrifice that we could never provide ourselves ([Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Furthermore, while Samuel was a "man of God" who spoke God's word, Jesus is the very [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), the ultimate Prophet, Priest, and King, embodying all divine authority and truth ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")). His kingdom is not built on human resources or earthly gifts, but on grace and divine power, freely offered to all who believe, regardless of their own perceived lack or status ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace Through Faith")). In Christ, our "spent" resources are met with His inexhaustible abundance, and our inability to bring a worthy "present" is overcome by His perfect and sufficient offering.

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

2 Kings 8:8

And the king said unto Hazael, Take a present in thine hand, and go, meet the man of God, and enquire of the LORD by him, saying, Shall I recover of this disease?

1 Kings 14:3

And take with thee ten loaves, and cracknels, and a cruse of honey, and go to him: he shall tell thee what shall become of the child.

2 Kings 4:42

And there came a man from Baalshalisha, and brought the man of God bread of the firstfruits, twenty loaves of barley, and full ears of corn in the husk thereof. And he said, Give unto the people, that they may eat.

2 Kings 5:15

¶ And he returned to the man of God, he and all his company, and came, and stood before him: and he said, Behold, now I know that [there is] no God in all the earth, but in Israel: now therefore, I pray thee, take a blessing of thy servant.

Judges 13:15

¶ And Manoah said unto the angel of the LORD, I pray thee, let us detain thee, until we shall have made ready a kid for thee.

Judges 13:17

And Manoah said unto the angel of the LORD, What [is] thy name, that when thy sayings come to pass we may do thee honour?

2 Kings 5:5

And the king of Syria said, Go to, go, and I will send a letter unto the king of Israel. And he departed, and took with him ten talents of silver, and six thousand [pieces] of gold, and ten changes of raiment.