Old Testament
1 Samuel 10:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Saul's uncle asked him and his servant, "Where did you go?" Saul answered, "We went looking for the donkeys, and when we couldn't find them, we went to Samuel."
Compare translations
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.
What 1 Samuel 10:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Saul is having a conversation with his uncle after a search for lost donkeys. Saul explains that they went looking for the animals but couldn't find them. Instead of returning home empty-handed, they decided to visit Samuel, a respected prophet. This encounter is significant because it sets the stage for Saul's future. It shows that sometimes, in our search for something seemingly trivial, we can stumble upon something much more important. Saul's journey reflects how life can lead us to unexpected places and people. The act of seeking donkeys leads him to a pivotal moment in his life, highlighting the importance of being open to new experiences and guidance. This passage encourages us to recognize that our everyday pursuits can lead to significant changes in our lives, often in ways we do not anticipate. It reminds us to be attentive to the paths we take, as they may lead us to our true purpose or calling in life. Saul's story illustrates that even in mundane tasks, we can find direction and meaning.
How to apply 1 Samuel 10:14 to your life
When you feel lost or unsure, remember that your journey may lead you to unexpected opportunities. Embrace the moments of seeking, whether in daily tasks or challenges. Stay open to guidance from others, as it may lead you to your true purpose in life. Trust the process and be willing to explore new paths. This can transform your experiences into meaningful encounters.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Samuel's story: Samuel Anoints Saul (1 Samuel 9:1–10:16)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Samuel

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Samuel 10:14
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Samuel 10:14
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 10:14 mean?
1 Samuel 10:14 describes a conversation between Saul and his uncle after Saul searched for lost donkeys. It highlights how Saul's search for something ordinary led him to meet Samuel, a significant figure in his life, indicating that everyday pursuits can lead to important moments.
What is the significance of Saul visiting Samuel in 1 Samuel 10:14?
Saul's visit to Samuel in 1 Samuel 10:14 is significant because it marks the beginning of Saul's journey towards becoming king. This encounter shows how seeking help in mundane situations can lead to transformative experiences.
What does Saul's journey in 1 Samuel 10:14 teach us?
Saul's journey teaches us that even in seemingly trivial pursuits, we can find direction and purpose. It encourages us to be open to new experiences and the guidance of others.
How does 1 Samuel 10:14 relate to finding purpose?
1 Samuel 10:14 relates to finding purpose by showing that Saul's search for donkeys led him to a significant encounter with Samuel. This reflects the idea that our everyday actions can lead us to discover our true calling.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.