1 Samuel 7:10
And as Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel: but the LORD thundered with a great thunder on that day upon the Philistines, and discomfited them; and they were smitten before Israel.
1 Samuel 7:10 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of 1 Samuel describes a pivotal moment in the battle between the Israelites and the Philistines. Samuel, a prophet and judge in Israel, was offering a burnt offering when the Philistines approached to engage in battle. In a miraculous display of divine intervention, the Lord responded by thundering with a great thunder upon the Philistines, causing confusion and fear among them. This unexpected turn of events led to the defeat of the Philistines by the Israelites. The verse highlights the power and protection of the Lord over his people, showcasing how he can turn the tides of battle in their favor. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and reliance on God's strength in times of conflict and hardship.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse highlights the concept of divine intervention in times of crisis. Here, we see Samuel offering a burnt offering to the Lord, symbolizing worship and obedience to God. As the Philistines approach for battle, the Lord responds by thundering against them with great force, demonstrating his power and protection over his people. This event serves as a reminder of how God is actively involved in the affairs of his people and is ready to come to their aid in times of need. The defeat of the Philistines by the Israelites not only showcases the Lord's might but also emphasizes the importance of relying on him for victory in battles, whether physical or spiritual.
1 Samuel 7:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
And as Samuel was offering up the burnt-offering, the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel; but Jehovah thundered with a great thunder on that day upon the Philistines, and discomfited them; and they were smitten down before Israel.
World English Bible
As Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel; but Yahweh thundered with a great thunder on that day on the Philistines, and confused them; and they were struck down before Israel.
Douay-Rheims
And it came to pass, when Samuel was offering the holocaust, the Philistines began the battle against Israel: but the Lord thundered with a great thunder on that day upon the Philistines, and terrified them, and they were overthrown before the face of Israel.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And as Samuel offered the burnt offering, the Philistims came to fight against Israel: but the Lord thundred with a great thunder that day vpon the Philistims, and scattered them: so they were slaine before Israel.