1 Samuel 9:13
As soon as ye be come into the city, ye shall straightway find him, before he go up to the high place to eat: for the people will not eat until he come, because he doth bless the sacrifice; and afterwards they eat that be bidden. Now therefore get you up; for about this time ye shall find him.
1 Samuel 9:13 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of 1 Samuel provides important context for the story of Saul's anointing as king. The verse emphasizes the urgency with which Samuel instructs Saul to go to the city, as the people are waiting for him to bless the sacrifice before they can eat. This highlights the significance of Saul's role as the chosen leader of the Israelites, as he is the one who has the authority to bless the sacrifice. This verse also showcases the importance of religious rituals and traditions in the lives of the people during this time period. By following these rituals and waiting for Saul's blessing, the people demonstrate their respect for their new king and their dedication to honoring God. Overall, this verse serves to set the stage for Saul's anointing and underscores the importance of obedience and reverence in the eyes of God and the community.
Theological Overview
Within the narrative of the Old Testament, particularly in the account of Samuel anointing Saul as king, this verse serves as an important detail in the story. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the significance of seeking guidance and blessings from the prophet Samuel before partaking in an important event such as a sacrificial meal. The word "high place" in this verse can be studied to show the importance of physical elevation as a symbol of spiritual elevation and communication with God. The instruction to find Samuel before he goes up to the high place emphasizes the urgency and importance of seeking spiritual guidance and blessings before engaging in any significant activity. This verse also underscores the role of the prophet as a mediator between the people and God, emphasizing the importance of seeking divine approval and blessings in all endeavors.
1 Samuel 9:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
as soon as ye are come into the city, ye shall straightway find him, before he goeth up to the high place to eat; for the people will not eat until he come, because he doth bless the sacrifice; [and] afterwards they eat that are bidden. Now therefore get you up; for at this time ye shall find him.
World English Bible
As soon as you have come into the city, you shall immediately find him, before he goes up to the high place to eat; for the people will not eat until he come, because he blesses the sacrifice. Afterwards those who are invited eat. Now therefore go up; for at this time you shall find him.”
Douay-Rheims
As soon as you come into the city, you shall immediately find him, before he go up to the high place to eat: for the people will not eat till he come; because he blesseth the victim, and afterwards they eat that are invited. Now, therefore, go up, for to day you shall find him.
Geneva Bible (1599)
When ye shall come into the citie, ye shall finde him straightway yet he come vp to the hie place to eate: for the people will not eate vntill he come, because he will blesse the sacrifice: and then eate they that be bidden to the feast: nowe therefore goe vp: for euen now shall ye find him.