Old Testament
1 Samuel 13:21
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see a practical detail about the tools used by the people.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
They had a file for sharpening the mattocks, coulters, forks, axes, and goads.
Yet they had a file for the mattocks, and for the coulters, and for the forks, and for the axes, and to sharpen the goads.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a practical detail about the tools used by the people. They had a file, which is a tool for sharpening various agricultural implements like mattocks, coulters, forks, axes, and goads. This indicates that they were engaged in farming and needed to maintain their tools for effective work. The mention of these specific tools highlights the importance of preparation and upkeep in their daily lives. It also reflects a time when people relied heavily on manual labor and the tools they had. The ability to sharpen tools was essential for productivity, showing that even in ancient times, efficiency was valued. This verse reminds us that taking care of our resources is crucial for success in any endeavor, whether in farming or other aspects of life. It emphasizes the need for diligence and attention to detail in our work, ensuring that we are always ready to tackle the tasks at hand. Overall, this verse illustrates the significance of being well-prepared and maintaining the tools we use in our daily lives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Samuel 13:21 to your life
Just like the people in this verse, we need to take care of our tools and resources. Whether it's our skills, relationships, or physical tools, regular maintenance is key. By being diligent and prepared, we can achieve greater success in our personal and professional lives. Remember, a little effort in upkeep goes a long way!
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 13:21 mean?
1 Samuel 13:21 describes the tools used by the people for farming, specifically mentioning a file for sharpening various agricultural implements. This highlights the importance of maintaining tools for effective work and reflects their reliance on manual labor.
What is the significance of sharpening tools in 1 Samuel 13:21?
Sharpening tools in 1 Samuel 13:21 signifies the need for preparation and upkeep in daily tasks. It shows that maintaining tools was essential for productivity and efficiency in their agricultural work.
What types of tools are mentioned in 1 Samuel 13:21?
The tools mentioned in 1 Samuel 13:21 include mattocks, coulters, forks, axes, and goads. These are all agricultural implements used for farming and land cultivation.
How does 1 Samuel 13:21 relate to daily life?
1 Samuel 13:21 relates to daily life by emphasizing the importance of taking care of our tools and resources. Just as the people maintained their farming tools, we should also ensure our skills and resources are well-kept for success.

The Book of 1 Samuel
1 Samuel 1: The Birth of Samuel
The book opens during the time of the judges, introducing a man named Elkanah with two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. While Peninnah has children, Hannah is barren and is cruelly taunted by her rival. During their annual pilgrimage to the sanctuary at Shiloh, the deeply distressed Hannah prays silently to the Lord, weeping and vowing that if God will give her a son, she will dedicate him to the Lord's service for his entire life as a Nazirite. Eli, the high priest, sees her lips moving and initially mistakes her for a drunken woman, but after she explains her sorrowful prayer, he blesses her, saying, "Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition."
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