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1 Samuel 11:4

Then came the messengers to Gibeah of Saul, and told the tidings in the ears of the people: and all the people lifted up their voices, and wept.

1 Samuel 11:4 · King James Version

Meaning

When the messengers arrived at Gibeah of Saul to deliver the news to the people, the message they brought was so grievous that all the people lifted up their voices and wept. This moment in the Bible is a poignant example of the power of shared emotion in a community. The people of Gibeah responded to the tidings with a collective outpouring of sorrow, demonstrating their ability to come together in times of hardship. Their tears symbolize a deep sense of connection and empathy between the individuals of the community, highlighting the importance of communal support in facing challenges. This verse serves as a reminder of the human capacity to share emotions and build solidarity in times of distress, emphasizing the significance of coming together as a community to support one another through difficult circumstances.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of 1 Samuel, we see messengers arriving at Gibeah of Saul to deliver news to the people. The use of the word "messengers" here can be interpreted as a reminder of the importance of communication and delivering messages. The people's reaction to the news is profound - they lift up their voices and weep. This emotional response highlights the impact that news can have on individuals and communities. The act of weeping can be seen as a form of expressing grief, sorrow, or empathy, underscoring the humanity and vulnerability of the people in Gibeah. This verse can also prompt reflection on the significance of unity in times of distress, as the people come together in their shared emotions. Overall, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of the power of communication, empathy, and community in the face of adversity.

1 Samuel 11:4 in other translations

American Standard Version

Then came the messengers to Gibeah of Saul, and spake these words in the ears of the people: and all the people lifted up their voice, and wept.

World English Bible

Then the messengers came to Gibeah of Saul, and spoke these words in the ears of the people: and all the people lifted up their voice, and wept.

Douay-Rheims

The messengers therefore came to Gabaa of Saul: and they spoke these words in the hearing of the people: and all the people lifted up their voices, and wept.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then came the messengers to Gibeah of Saul, and tolde these tidings in the eares of the people: and all the people lift vp their voices and wept.