1 Samuel 9:8

Commentary on 1 Samuel 9:8 (KJV)

1 Samuel 9:8 captures a small, yet significant, moment in the narrative of Saul's initial encounter with Samuel, the prophet. The verse reads: "And the servant answered Saul again, and said, Behold, I have here at hand the fourth part of a shekel of silver: [that] will I give to the man of God, to tell us our way." This simple exchange reveals much about the cultural practices and divine providence at play.

Historical and Cultural Context

At this point in the narrative, Saul and his servant were on a desperate search for lost donkeys, a journey that providentially led them to the renowned prophet Samuel, the man of God. It was a common practice in ancient Israel to bring a gift or offering when consulting a prophet or seer, not as a bribe, but as a sign of respect and to support the prophet's ministry. Prophets often did not engage in traditional commerce and relied on such contributions. The servant's offer of a "fourth part of a shekel of silver" indicates a very modest amount, suggesting their limited resources but also their earnest desire for divine guidance regarding their lost animals. This seemingly mundane search for lost donkeys was, in fact, God's orchestrated path to bring Saul before Samuel for his anointing as the first king of Israel.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Guidance through Prophets: The verse highlights the role of prophets as conduits for God's wisdom and direction, even concerning everyday matters like finding lost property. God's people sought out these spiritual leaders for insight into their circumstances.
• Custom of Offering: It illustrates the ancient custom of showing honor and providing sustenance to those who served as spiritual guides. This practice underscores the value placed on prophetic revelation in the society.
• God's Providence in Ordinary Events: This small detail is part of a larger story demonstrating how God uses seemingly insignificant or ordinary events (like lost donkeys and a small sum of money) to orchestrate His grand plans, leading to the selection and anointing of a king.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "man of God" (Hebrew: ’ish ha’Elohim) was a common and respectful title for a prophet or seer in ancient Israel, signifying someone who spoke on behalf of the Lord and was divinely appointed. The term "shekel of silver" refers to a unit of weight and currency. A "fourth part of a shekel" was a very small denomination, equivalent to about a quarter of an ounce of silver, emphasizing the humble nature of the offering. This small sum was considered sufficient for the purpose of seeking counsel. It's interesting to note that 1 Samuel 9:9 clarifies that "he that is now called a Prophet was beforetime called a Seer" (Hebrew: ro'eh), indicating the evolving terminology for those who received divine visions and messages.

Practical Application

This verse offers several timeless insights for believers today. First, it reminds us that God is concerned with every detail of our lives, no matter how small or mundane they may seem. Just as He guided Saul to Samuel over lost donkeys, He can provide direction in our daily challenges. Second, it underscores the importance of valuing and seeking wise counsel, whether from spiritual leaders, mentors, or through diligent study of God's Word. Finally, it highlights God's sovereign hand, working behind the scenes through ordinary circumstances to fulfill His extraordinary purposes. Even our humble efforts or limited resources, like the servant's small offering, can be used by God in powerful ways when offered with a sincere heart.