1 Samuel 28:9 – “But the woman said to him, ‘Surely you know what Saul has done. He has cut off the mediums and spiritists from the land. Why have you set a trap for my life to bring about my death?'”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the woman, identified as a medium from Endor, expresses hesitation when Saul (disguised) asks her to summon a spirit. She reminds him that King Saul had previously expelled all mediums and spiritists from Israel, in accordance with God’s law. She fears that by performing the act Saul is requesting, she may be setting herself up for punishment or even death. This shows that, despite Saul’s prior decree, people were still practicing these forbidden arts in secret. The woman’s fear of punishment reflects how serious Saul’s past actions were against such practices, though ironically, Saul himself is now seeking what he once condemned.
Historical Context
During Saul’s reign, God’s law against witchcraft, divination, and consulting the dead was clear (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Saul had enforced this law earlier by driving out mediums and spiritists, aligning himself with God’s command. These practices were common in pagan nations, but Israel was called to be distinct, relying solely on God for guidance. By the time we reach this point in 1 Samuel, Saul has become desperate, disconnected from God’s guidance, and is now hypocritically seeking out the very practices he had outlawed. This shows the extent of his spiritual decline. The woman’s fear of retribution indicates that the consequences for disobeying the law were severe, highlighting how far Saul has fallen from his former faithfulness to God’s commands.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse underscores the importance of obedience to God’s law and the consequences of turning away from Him. Saul’s earlier actions reflected obedience, but his current actions reveal hypocrisy and rebellion. This moment highlights how sin can lead to deeper moral compromises over time. The woman’s reminder of Saul’s past enforcement of God’s law is ironic, as Saul himself is now violating that law. It serves as a warning that disobedience and desperation can lead to actions that go directly against one’s own beliefs and values.
Literary Analysis
This verse is rich in irony. The medium’s reminder of Saul’s past actions against people like her contrasts sharply with Saul’s current state. The woman’s words, “Surely you know what Saul has done,” emphasize the tension in the scene. The king who once sought to rid Israel of these practices is now seeking out the very thing he had condemned. The use of disguise and deception in the scene, both by Saul and the medium, adds to the atmosphere of secrecy and moral confusion. The woman’s fear of punishment heightens the tension, creating a sense of impending doom that foreshadows the consequences of Saul’s actions.
Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 18:10-12: God’s command forbidding witchcraft and consulting the dead, which Saul is now violating.
- 1 Samuel 15:22-23: Samuel’s rebuke of Saul for his earlier disobedience, highlighting the theme of rebellion against God’s commands.
- Leviticus 19:31: Another prohibition against turning to mediums, reinforcing the seriousness of Saul’s actions.
- Isaiah 8:19: A warning against seeking guidance from the dead, urging people to trust in God instead.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of the dangers of compromising one’s beliefs out of fear or desperation. Saul’s story teaches us that when we drift away from God’s guidance, we may be tempted to seek answers or solutions in ways that go against His will. The woman’s reminder of Saul’s past faithfulness to God’s law is a stark contrast to his present disobedience, challenging us to remain steadfast in our faith even during difficult times. It warns against hypocrisy and encourages us to trust God’s guidance, even when the path seems unclear.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving desire to protect His people from harmful spiritual practices. The prohibition against consulting mediums and spiritists was given for Israel’s protection, keeping them from deception and leading them to trust God alone. Although Saul has strayed, God’s love remains constant. He continues to offer grace and guidance to those who seek Him with humble hearts. God’s commands are not meant to restrict us but to lead us into truth and life. Saul’s disobedience stands in contrast to the loving protection God offers through His Word.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ as the ultimate source of spiritual guidance. Unlike Saul, who sought answers from a medium, Christians are invited to seek wisdom and direction from Jesus, who is the “way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Jesus provides direct access to God, making the need for mediums or spiritists obsolete. Through Christ, believers have the Holy Spirit, who leads them into all truth (John 16:13). This passage shows the futility of seeking guidance outside of God’s will, while Jesus offers the perfect and reliable way to God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever faced a situation where fear or desperation tempted you to compromise your beliefs? How did you respond?
- How can we remain faithful to God’s guidance, even when His answers seem delayed or unclear?
- In what ways does Jesus provide the spiritual guidance and wisdom we need in times of uncertainty or fear?