1 Samuel 9:9 – “(Formerly in Israel, if someone went to inquire of God, they would say, ‘Come, let us go to the seer,’ because the prophet of today used to be called a seer.)”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse provides a parenthetical note that explains a cultural practice in Israel at the time of Samuel. It clarifies that what we now call a “prophet” was once referred to as a “seer.” The term “seer” emphasizes the prophet’s role as one who receives visions and divine insight from God. This explanation helps readers understand the language and customs of the time, highlighting the continuity of how people sought God’s guidance through His chosen messengers. The verse underscores the importance of prophets in Israel, who were seen as direct links between God and His people.
Historical Context
In the period of Samuel, Israel relied heavily on prophets, or “seers,” for guidance because they were seen as God’s mouthpieces. Seers had a unique role as those who received visions and messages from God, providing insight into His will for the people. This was before the establishment of written Scriptures as the primary source of God’s revelation, so the people would frequently go to these seers to understand God’s direction. This historical note reminds us of the evolving role of prophets and the changing terminology that reflects their function within Israel’s society.
Theological Implications
This verse shows the importance of seeking God’s guidance through those He appoints. It emphasizes that God has always communicated with His people, providing direction through various means, whether through visions, prophecies, or His Word. The shift from calling them “seers” to “prophets” reflects a broadening understanding of how God speaks—not just through visions but also through words and actions. It teaches that God’s guidance has always been accessible to those who seek it, showing His desire to lead His people clearly.
Literary Analysis
The verse serves as an explanatory aside within the narrative, breaking the flow of the story to provide important cultural context. This brief note helps the reader understand why Samuel, the man Saul is about to meet, was called a seer at that time. The literary device of parenthesis effectively bridges the ancient terminology with the understanding of the audience, making the text more relatable and easier to grasp. It also highlights how language and titles can evolve while the core function—seeking God’s guidance—remains constant.
Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Chronicles 16:7-10 – Hanani the seer rebukes King Asa, demonstrating the role of seers as those who brought God’s messages, similar to prophets.
- Amos 3:7 – “Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.” This verse shows the consistency of God’s use of prophets, or seers, throughout history.
- 1 Kings 22:17 – Micaiah, a prophet, receives a vision and delivers God’s message, illustrating the continuing role of seers and prophets in providing divine insight.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christians, this verse serves as a reminder that God’s guidance is available and has been provided in many ways throughout history. It encourages believers to seek God’s wisdom through His Word, prayer, and godly counsel, recognizing that God desires to make His will known to His people. It also teaches us to appreciate the ways God has historically communicated, reinforcing our trust in His ongoing guidance today. This verse is a call to actively seek God’s direction, knowing that He still speaks, even if the methods have changed over time.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse highlights God’s love in His consistent desire to communicate with His people. By providing seers and prophets, God showed His commitment to guiding and directing His people, ensuring they were never left without a voice to lead them. God’s loving nature is evident in how He reaches out, always making a way for His people to know His will, reflecting His desire for a relationship where He guides and we follow.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the roles of both seer and prophet. As the Word made flesh, Jesus perfectly reveals God’s will and truth, bridging the gap between God and humanity. In John 1:14, Jesus is described as dwelling among us, full of grace and truth, providing the clearest revelation of God’s heart and intentions. Just as the seers and prophets of old pointed people to God’s guidance, Jesus provides the ultimate connection to God, making Him accessible to everyone.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can we seek God’s guidance today in ways that align with the example set by the seers and prophets of old?
- What does this verse teach us about the importance of understanding the cultural context of the Bible when seeking to apply it to our lives?
- How does knowing that Jesus is the ultimate prophet and seer change the way you approach seeking God’s direction?