1 Samuel

The book of 1 Samuel, written by an unknown author to the people of Israel around 930 BC, tells the story of the transition from the era of the Judges to the establishment of the Israelite monarchy. 1 Samuel introduces key figures like Samuel, Saul, and David and explores themes of leadership, faith, and obedience to God's commands. Notable events, including David's victory over Goliath, are also recounted in this important historical narrative.

The Birth Of Samuel - Chapter 1

In a family with two wives, Hannah is deeply distressed because she is barren. Elkanah's other wife, Peninnah, is causing Hannah great sorrow. Yearly, they visit the tabernacle, and Hannah prays fervently for a child. Eli the priest notices her silent, emotional plea and initially assumes she is drunk. But when Hannah explains her desperation and vows to dedicate her child to the Lord, Eli blesses her, and she leaves with a newfound sense of hope. In time, Hannah conceives and gives birth to a son, Samuel that stands for "heard by God".

Hannah Dedicates Samuel

Hannah fulfills her vow, and after weaning her son Samuel, she takes him to the tabernacle in Shiloh. Hannah presents Samuel to Eli the priest, dedicating him to the Lord's service. Samuel grows up in the tabernacle under Eli's guidance, as Hannah rejoices in her faithfulness to her vow.

Hannah's Prayer - Chapter 2

Hannah's heart overflows with joy and gratitude, and she prays a hymn to praise the Lord. Hannah exalts His strength and holiness, acknowledging His knowledge and wisdom. Hannah compares the fate of the weak and the strong, emphasizing that God raises the poor and needy while humbling the rich and powerful. Hannah praises God's ability to protect and save His faithful servants and to bring justice to the world. Hannah's prayer reflects her deep faith and gratitude for the gift of her son Samuel.

Eli's Wicked Sons

Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, are wicked priests who do not know the Lord. They take advantage of their priestly positions, demanding portions of sacrifices beyond what is allowed. Meanwhile, Samuel, serving in the tabernacle, grows in favor with the Lord and the people. A man of God warns Eli of his sons' misconduct and the consequences it will bring. Despite Eli's efforts to discipline his sons, their corruption continues.

Prophecy Against the House Of Eli

A prophet delivers God's message to Eli, rebuking him for failing to restrain his wicked sons, which has brought judgment upon his house. God declares that there will be no one left from Eli's lineage to serve as a priest. Instead, He will raise up a faithful priest who will honor God, and those from Eli's house who survive will beg to serve under him.

The Lord Calls Samuel - Chapter 3

During the time when visions and revelations were rare, young Samuel served in the tabernacle under Eli the priest. One night, as he lay down to sleep, the Lord called Samuel by name. Mistaking the voice for Eli's, Samuel runs to him, but Eli realizes it is the Lord's voice and instructs Samuel to respond, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening." God reveals His judgment against Eli's house for the sins of his sons, and Samuel is entrusted with delivering this difficult message. As Samuel grows, the Lord continues to reveal Himself to him, and his reputation as a prophet spreads throughout Israel.

The Philistines Capture The Ark - Chapter 4

The Israelites go out to battle against the Philistines. In the battle, the Philistines defeat Israel, killing about four thousand soldiers. The Israelite elders question why the Lord allowed this defeat and decide to bring the Ark to the battlefield, believing it will save them. When the Ark arrives, there is a great shout, but the Philistines remain undeterred. The Philistines defeat the Israelites, kill Eli's sons, and capture the Ark.

Death Of Eli

A Benjaminite from the battlefront arrives in Shiloh with torn clothes and dust on his head to report the devastating news of Israel's defeat, the death of Eli's sons, and the capture of the Ark. Eli, who is now ninety-eight years old and blind, hears the commotion and inquires about the situation. Upon learning of the Ark's capture, he falls backward from his seat, breaks his neck, and dies, fulfilling the prophecy of judgment on his house. Eli's daughter-in-law, the wife of Phinehas, goes into labor and gives birth to a son, whom she names Ichabod, signifying the glory of the Lord's departure from Israel due to the loss of the Ark.

The Ark In Ashdod And Ekron - Chapter 5

The Philistines place the Ark of the Covenant in the temple of their god Dagon in Ashdod. The next morning, they find Dagon fallen before the Ark, so they set him upright again. However, on the following day, they discover Dagon not only fallen but also broken, with only the trunk remaining. Additionally, a plague afflicts the people of Ashdod. Realizing that the presence of the Ark is causing these troubles, the Philistines move it to Gath, but the same plagues befall that city. Eventually, they send the Ark to Ekron, but the plague continues, causing distress among the people.

The Ark Returned To Israel - Chapter 6

The Philistines consult their priests and diviners who suggest returning the Ark to the Israelites with a guilt offering of golden replicas of the plagues. They place the Ark on a cart drawn by two cows and set it on a path toward Beth Shemesh. The cows carry the Ark to the Israelite city, and the people of Beth Shemesh rejoice at its return. However, some of them look into the Ark, which incurs the Lord's wrath, resulting in the deaths of seventy men. The people send a message to the people of Kiriath Jearim to come and take the Ark.

Samuel Subdues The Philistines At Mizpah - Chapter 7

The Ark of the Covenant is brought to Kiriath Jearim and placed in the house of Abinadab, where it remains for twenty years. The people of Israel, under the leadership of Samuel, repent and return to the Lord. Samuel assembles the people at Mizpah for a time of fasting and prayer. The Philistines learn of this gathering and march against the Israelites. In response to Samuel's prayer, God sends a thunder storm against the Philistines, causing great confusion and enabling the Israelites to defeat the Philistines. The Israelites then reclaim the cities taken by the Philistines.

Israel Asks For A King - Chapter 8

The Israelites request a king from Samuel, desiring to be like the nations around them. Samuel warns them of the potential consequences, but they persist. God instructs Samuel to grant their request to shift from a theocratic rule to monarchy. Samuel again warns the people about the demands and abuses of a king. Nevertheless, they insist on having a king to lead them. Samuel conveys their desire to God, who directs him to anoint a king when the time comes.

Samuel Anoints Saul - Chapter 9

Kish, a prominent man from the tribe of Benjamin, loses his donkeys and sends his son Saul on a quest to find them. After searching without success, they visit the city where the prophet Samuel resides. Samuel receives a message from God, informing him that Saul, the future king of Israel, is coming. As Saul approaches the city, he meets some girls who tell him that Samuel, the seer, is in town, and they offer him guidance. Samuel, guided by God, welcomes Saul and invites him to a feast. During the meal, Samuel anoints Saul, revealing that he will be the ruler over God's people.

Samuel Anoints Saul (cont.) - Chapter 10

Samuel anoints Saul as king, kisses him, and reveals three signs that will occur to confirm God's choice. These signs include encountering men with bread, a group of prophets, and a changed heart. Saul is instructed to wait for these events, which will signify that he is chosen by God to lead Israel.

Saul Made King

Following his anointing, Saul experiences a transformation, prophesying among a group of prophets. Samuel instructs him to wait for further signs. Meanwhile, Saul's uncle inquires about the journey. Saul is introduced as the new king, but some are skeptical due to his humble background. However, when Saul is presented to the people, his impressive physical stature earns their approval. Despite initial doubt, Saul is confirmed as the chosen leader of Israel, and Samuel explains the duties and responsibilities of a king to him.

Saul Rescues The City Of Jabesh - Chapter 11

The Ammonites were besieging Jabesh Gilead. Saul, who heard what was happening at Jabesh Gilead, took immediate action. Saul gathered a formidable army, demonstrating his leadership potential. Saul's forces swiftly defeated the Ammonites, liberating the besieged city and its inhabitants.

Saul Confirmed As King

After Saul's victorious rescue of Jabesh Gilead, the people confirm him as their king. The Israelites assemble at Gilgal and reaffirm Saul's kingship with sacrifices and celebrations. This event marks the formal establishment of Saul as the king of Israel, and it garners widespread support and approval from the people.

Samuel's Farewell Speech - Chapter 12

Samuel addresses the Israelites, defending his righteous leadership by highlighting his integrity and lack of wrongdoing. Samuel challenges the people to point out any unjust actions during his rule, but they acknowledge his righteousness. Samuel emphasizes the need for obedience and recounts past instances of disobedience and divine rescue. Samuel calls for God to send thunder and rain which God provides, and the Israelites stood in awe. The people express fear and remorse, and Samuel reassures them, encouraging wholehearted devotion to God. He promises to pray for the nation, offering guidance and emphasizing the importance of revering the Lord and serving faithfully.

Samuel Rebukes Saul - Chapter 13

Saul assembles an army of about 3,000 Israelite soldiers. Meanwhile, the Philistines gather a massive force of chariots, horsemen, and warriors. As the Israelites see the enemy, they become frightened, and some hide in fear. Feeling pressured and anxious, Saul waits for Samuel, the prophet, who was supposed to offer a burnt offering before the battle. When Samuel delays, Saul takes matters into his own hands and offers the sacrifice, disobeying God's command.

Isreal Without Weapons

Israelites, facing a shortage of blacksmiths due to Philistine restrictions, employ makeshift weapons. Only Saul and Jonathan had real weapons.

Jonathan Attacks The Philistines - Chapter 14

Jonathan and his armor-bearer plan an attack on a Philistine outpost. A steep, rocky passage separates them from the garrison. They challenge the guards, and a divine sign assures them of success. Striking down about twenty men, panic spreads among the Philistines.

Israel Routs The Philistines

The earth trembles, magnifying their fear. Saul's watchmen notice the commotion, and he calls his troops for an inspection, unaware of the exploits of Jonathan and his armor-bearer. When the Philistine garrison experiences a sudden upheaval during the night, confusion spreads, and they begin attacking each other. Saul's lookouts report this, and he calls for a headcount to find that Jonathan and his armor-bearer are missing. Realizing that Jonathan's bold action led to the turmoil, Saul plans to consult God. As the battle rages on, the Hebrews who were earlier hiding with the Philistines turn against them. Saul restrains his troops from eating without first seeking God's guidance, using the priest Ahijah and the ephod to discern the cause of their difficulties.

Jonathan Eats Honey

After Saul's command not to eat until evening, Jonathan, unaware of the order, tastes honey, and his strength returns. The soldiers, famished, eat meat with blood. Saul builds an altar to God but decides to continue pursuing the Philistines. Consulting God through the ephod, he receives no answer. Realizing someone broke the oath, Saul narrows it down to Jonathan. Jonathan confesses, and Saul intends to put him to death but is dissuaded by the people. The Israelites defeat the Philistines, and Saul's kingdom is strengthened. His family and warriors rescue Jonathan.

Saul's Family

Saul's family lineage is traced, with his sons Jonathan, Ishvi, and Malchi-Shua named. Saul's oldest daughter was named Merab and the younger was named Michal. Sual's wife was named Ahinoam. Saul's commander of his army was named Abner. Saul continued to be at war with the Philistines over his entire rule.

The LORD Rejects Saul As King - Chapter 15

Samuel instructs Saul to destroy all the Amalekites and their possessions as God's judgment. Saul assembles an army and defeats the Amalekites but spares King Agag and some of the best livestock. God tells Samuel of Saul's disobedience and His regret for choosing Saul as king. Samuel confronts Saul, who attempts to rationalize his actions. Samuel informs Saul that God has rejected him as king. In anguish, Samuel inadvertently tears Saul's robe, symbolizing God's rejection. Saul pleads for forgiveness, but Samuel insists God's decision is final. Samuel orders Agag executed, and Saul returns home. Despite their strained relationship, Samuel mourns for Saul but does not visit Saul for the rest of his life.

Samuel Anoints David - Chapter 16

God sends Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint a new king. Samuel fears Saul will attempt to kill him if he learns of his intentions, so God instructs Samuel to take a heifer for a sacrifice. In Bethlehem, Samuel invites Jesse and his sons to the sacrifice. Samuel sees Eliab and assumes he's the chosen one, but God clarifies that He looks at the heart, not appearance. Jesse presents his other sons, but none are chosen. Finally, David, the youngest, is brought from tending sheep and anointed as the future king. The Spirit of the Lord comes upon David, departing from Saul, signifying the transition of divine favor.

David In Saul's Service

An evil spirit troubles Saul, and his servants suggest finding someone skilled in music to calm him. They learn of David, who is summoned to play the harp. David's music soothes Saul. Whenever the distressing spirit torments Saul, David's music brings relief. Saul comes to love David and makes him his armor-bearer, unaware of the significant role David will play in Israel's history.

David and Goliath - Chapter 17

The Philistines and Israelites prepare for battle in the Valley of Elah. Goliath, a giant Philistine champion, challenges Israel to send a warrior for single combat. David, Jesse's son, brings provisions to his brothers in the army and hears Goliath's taunts. Despite opposition, David volunteers to fight Goliath, armed with his faith in God and a sling. Saul reluctantly agrees, and David defeats Goliath with a single stone. The Philistines flee, and Israel emerges victorious. David's courage and trust in God elevate him in Saul's court. Jonathan, Saul's son, forms a deep friendship with David, and David's reputation as a valiant warrior begins to spread.

Saul's Growing Fear Of David - Chapter 18

After David's victory over Goliath, a close bond forms between him and Jonathan, Saul's son. Saul, impressed by David's success, makes him a commander. However, as the people celebrate David's military achievements, Saul becomes jealous and attempts to kill him. Saul offers his daughter Merab in marriage but reneges. Instead, David marries Michal, Saul's younger daughter, as a reward for slaying a hundred Philistines. Saul's envy intensifies, leading to repeated attempts on David's life. Yet, David continues to thrive, earning favor with the people and Saul's household. Saul, increasingly paranoid, plots David's demise, setting the stage for a complex relationship between the two central figures in Israel's unfolding drama.

Saul Tries To Kill David - Chapter 19

Saul's jealousy of David escalates, leading to a plot against his life. Jonathan intervenes, convincing Saul to spare David temporarily. However, Saul's attempts to kill David resume, prompting Michal, David's wife, to help him escape. Saul sends messengers, but they succumb to the Spirit of God. Saul personally pursues David, yet the Spirit overtakes him too, causing him to prophesy. Meanwhile, David seeks refuge with Samuel.

David And Jonathan - Chapter 20

David, seeking insight into Saul's intentions, meets with Jonathan. David and Jonathan devise a plan to verify Saul's intentions during a festival. If Saul reacts negatively, David will know he is in danger. Saul's anger at the festival confirms the threat, and David hides. The next day, Jonathan shoots arrows as a signal, indicating danger. David and Jonathan then bid each other farewell. Saul's deceitful plans to eliminate David intensify, testing the loyalty between David and Jonathan.

David At Nob - Chapter 21

David, escaping Saul, seeks aid from Ahimelek the priest. David requests food from Ahimelek who only has consecrated bread. Ahimelek provides the bread from Ahimelek and asks him if he had a sword. Ahimelek said the only sword he had was Goliath's sword which David takes.

David At Gath

David, seeking refuge in Gath, encounters Achish, king of Gath. Fearing for his safety, David pretends to be insane, scribbling on the city gates and allowing saliva to dribble down his beard. In response, Achish dismisses David, convinced he poses no threat. David's display of madness secures his escape, enabling him to evade potential harm while in the territory of his enemies.

David At Adullam And Mizpah - Chapter 22

David seeks refuge in the cave of Adullam. David's distressed family and others join him, forming a band of about 400 men, with David as their commander. In Moab and concerned for his parents' safety, David asks the king of Moab to provide them refuge. After the prophet Gad told David to leave for Judah, David went to the forest of Hereth which was in the region of Judah.

Saul Kills The Priests Of Nob

Saul learns of Ahimelek aiding David and summons Ahimelek and his fellow priests. Despite their innocence, Saul accuses them of conspiring against him and commands his guards to kill them. None of Saul's guards would kill the priests, so Doeg, an Edomite, executes them. Learning of the massacre, Abiathar, Ahimelek's son, escapes to join David in the forest. David takes responsibility for the tragedy, offering protection to Abiathar.

David Saves Keilah - Chapter 23

Learning of the Philistines' siege on Keilah, David asks God if he should fight against the Philistines and defend Keilah. God advises him to confront the Philistines. David and his men engage in battle, successfully defending Keilah from the Philistine attack.

Saul Pursues David

After hearing that David was in Keilah, Saul plans to attack David. David hears Saul's plan to attack him at Keilah, so he seeks God's guidance. God informs him that the people of Keilah would deliver him to Saul. David and his men depart, escaping to the wilderness of Ziph. Saul, learning of David's whereabouts, sets off to capture him. David hears Saul is closing in and moves to the wilderness of Maon. Saul continues his pursuit, surrounding David. An urgent message diverts Saul's attention to an invasion by the Philistines. David seizes the opportunity to evade Saul to a strongholds in En Gedi.

David Spares Saul's Life - Chapter 24

In a cave at En Gedi, David spots Saul, who's relieving himself. David's men suggest killing Saul, but he refuses, respecting Saul's authority as God's anointed. David merely cuts a piece of Saul's robe. Later, David confronts Saul, asserting his innocence and loyalty by showing Saul his cut robe as evidence that he could have killed Saul. Saul acknowledges David's righteousness and predicts his future reign. Saul acknowledges David will be king and requests kindness toward his family. David assures Saul that he won't harm his descendants.

David, Nabal and Abigail - Chapter 25

Samuel dies and all of Israel assembles to mourn and bury Samuel in Ramah. After, David moves to the Desert of Paran. David, previously sheltered by Nabal's shepherds, sends ten men seeking provisions during sheep shearing. Nabal, despite benefiting from David's protection, responds insultingly. Enraged, David prepares for vengeance. Abigail, Nabal's discerning wife, intervenes, taking provisions to David and apologizing for Nabal's behavior. Abigail's wisdom and humility impress David, who relents from revenge. After Abigail returns home, she informs Nabal that she provided David with food and that David previously planned to kill him. Hearing what Abigail had to say led Nabal to have a heart attack and die ten days later. Hearing of Nabal's death, David proposes to Abigail, and she becomes his wife. David also marries Ahinoam while on the run. Now, David is married to Abigail, Ahinoam, and Saul's daughter Michal.

David Again Spares Saul's Life - Chapter 26

Saul seeks to capture David and heads to the wilderness of Ziph. David, aided by Abishai, sneaks into Saul's camp where he's sleeping. Abishai proposes killing Saul, but David refuses, due to Saul being anointed by God. Instead, he takes Saul's spear and water jug to prove his innocence and loyalty. From a safe distance, David addresses Abner, Saul's commander, highlighting Saul's unwarranted pursuit of him. Saul is moved and acknowledges his wrongdoing. David presents Saul's spear, urging him to cease the relentless pursuit, and Saul acknowledges David's righteousness. David proclaims his trust in God's judgment to protect him from Saul's wrath.

David Among The Philistines - Chapter 27

Fleeing from Saul, David seeks refuge in Philistine territory. David obtains the city of Ziklag from Achish, the Philistine king, and resides there for over a year and four months. David cunningly deceives Achish, claiming raids against Israel, but actually targeting other tribes. Achish believes David is loyal, unaware of his actual targets, while David avoids engaging with his fellow Israelites. This strategic move secures a temporary safe haven for David and his followers, although it complicates his allegiances as he maneuvers between the Philistines and his own people.

Saul And The Medium At Endor - Chapter 28

As the Philistines gather to fight against Israel, Saul, not being answered by God and fearing for his life, consults a medium in Endor to reach Samuel. Samuel warns Saul of his imminent defeat and death. Samuel confirms God's rejection of Saul and predicts the next day's battle outcome.

Achish Sends David Back To Ziklag - Chapter 29

Philistine commanders question David's loyalty, opposing his presence in their army against Israel. Despite prior confidence in David's loyalty, Achish, the Philistine king, respects their concerns and sends David away to avoid confrontation. Though David is willing to fight, his absence from the battle between the Philistines and Israel spares him from confronting his own people.

David Destroys The Amalekites - Chapter 30

David returns to Ziklag and finds it raided by the Amalekites. David and his soldiers' families were also taken captive. Distraught, David consults the priest, Abiathar, for divine guidance. Encouraged by God, David and his men pursue the Amalekites. Along the way, some of David's men grow weary and stay behind. They stumble upon an Egyptian slave abandoned by the Amalekites, who leads them to the enemy's camp. David's forces defeat the Philistines and regain everything including the captives. David shows fairness in distributing the spoils among all, even those too exhausted to fight. David sends portions to elders throughout Judah and wins their favor.

Saul Takes His Life - Chapter 31

During a battle against the Philistines, the Israelites suffer heavy losses, and Saul's sons, including Jonathan, die. Saul, severely wounded, takes his life in fear of what the Philistines would do after capturing him. The Philistines find Saul and his sons' bodies, dishonoring them by stripping their armor and displaying them on the wall of Beth Shan. Valiant men from Jabesh Gilead retrieve their bodies, burn them, and bury their bones in Jabesh, honoring Saul and his sons. The end of Saul's reign, his family's demise, and the disrespectful treatment of their bodies stand as a somber conclusion to Saul's rule and sets the stage for the transition to David's kingship.