1 Samuel 15:11
It repenteth me that I have set up Saul to be king: for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments. And it grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the LORD all night.
1 Samuel 15:11 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of 1 Samuel in the Bible tells of God's regret for appointing Saul as the king of Israel because he has not obeyed God's commandments. It shows God's disappointment in Saul's actions and how he has turned away from following God's ways. The verse also highlights the reaction of Samuel, a prophet of God, who is deeply saddened by Saul's disobedience and failure to fulfill God's will. Samuel's grief is so profound that he cries out to the Lord throughout the night, seeking guidance and understanding. This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's commandments, as well as the consequences of straying from His path. It emphasizes the significance of repentance, prayer, and seeking forgiveness when one has gone astray.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see God expressing regret over His decision to make Saul king, as Saul has turned away from following God's commandments. The use of the word "repenteth" here showcases God's sorrow and disappointment over Saul's disobedience. The fact that Samuel, a faithful servant of God, is also grieved by Saul's actions emphasizes the severity of the situation. Samuel's response to this news is to cry out to the Lord all night, showing his deep sorrow and concern for the future of Israel under Saul's leadership. This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God's commandments and the consequences of straying from His ways. It serves as a reminder of the importance of staying faithful and committed to God's will in all circumstances.
1 Samuel 15:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
It repenteth me that I have set up Saul to be king; for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments. And Samuel was wroth; and he cried unto Jehovah all night.
World English Bible
“It grieves me that I have set up Saul to be king; for he is turned back from following me, and has not performed my commandments.” Samuel was angry; and he cried to Yahweh all night.
Douay-Rheims
It repenteth me that I have made Saul king: for he hath forsaken me, and hath not executed my commandments. And Samuel was grieved, and he cried unto the Lord all night.
Geneva Bible (1599)
It repenteth me that I haue made Saul King: for he is turned from me, and hath not performed my commandements. And Samuel was mooued, and cryed vnto the Lord all night.