1 Samuel 10:9-16

Saul Among the Prophets. 1 Samuel 10:9-16

9 And it was so, that when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God gave him another heart: and all those signs came to pass that day.

10 And when they came thither to the hill, behold, a company of prophets met him; and the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them.
11 And it came to pass, when all that knew him before-time saw that, behold, he prophesied among the prophets, then the people said one to another, What is this that is come unto the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?

12 And one of the same place answered and said, But who is their father? Therefore it became a proverb, Is Saul also among the prophets?

13 And when he had made an end of prophesying, he came to the high place.
14 And Saul's uncle said unto him and to his servant, Whither went ye? and he said, To seek the asses: and when we saw that they were no where, we came to Samuel.

15 And Saul's uncle said, Tell me, I pray thee, what Samuel said unto you.
16 And Saul said unto his uncle, He told us plainly that the asses were found. But of the matter of the kingdom, whereof Samuel spake, he told him not.

10.

What is the meaning of the proverb? 1 Samuel 10:13

Saul was know as the son of Kish, the man of Benjamin. He was evidently acquainted with rural life, and his father had sent him out to look for his lost she-asses. To find Saul among the prophets of God was an unexpected experience. Those who knew Saul were surprised to find him in such company. They asked, Is Saul also among the prophets? Whenever we find someone in a group to which he is not accustomed, we often ask the same question. This is especially true when one is found in the company of those who are generally considered to be of a higher class. The proverb was evidently used this way in Israel in ancient times.

11.

Who was Saul's uncle? 1 Samuel 10:14

Saul was introduced as the son of Kish (1 Samuel 9:1), the son of Abiel (1 Samuel 14:51). Abner became Saul's captain, and they were very closely associated throughout the reign of Saul. This constant association would indicate that they might have been reared in the same community. Such a condition would point to Ner's being the uncle mentioned in this account of Saul's return to his home.

12.

Why was Saul's uncle anxious to know what Samuel said? 1 Samuel 10:15 b

Here is an indication of how the people did not let any of Samuel's words fall to the ground (1 Samuel 3:19). Whatever Samuel had to say was of interest to the people of Israel. It would be hard to imagine that Ner would have any idea that his nephew would be chosen king. His inquiry undoubtedly was one of general curiosity and wholesome interest in any pronouncement of the man of God. Saul did not mention anything about his being anointed king of Israel or his relationship to the kingdom which the people were wanting to see established. The latest developments along the line of setting up the monarchy may have been a part of the uncle's interest; but Saul did not divulge what had happened to him in this respect. Josephus indicates that Saul kept this secret because he did not want to arouse unbelief or envy. Others believe that it was probably because of his unambitious humility.