Old Testament
1 Samuel 14:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, fear swept through the camp and the surrounding fields.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
There was trembling in the camp, in the field, and among all the people. The garrison and the raiders also trembled, and the earth quaked, so it was a very great trembling.
And there was trembling in the host, in the field, and among all the people: the garrison, and the spoilers, they also trembled, and the earth quaked: so it was a very great trembling.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, fear swept through the camp and the surrounding fields. Everyone felt it, from the soldiers to the raiders. The ground itself seemed to shake, amplifying the sense of dread. This was not just a physical trembling; it was a deep, unsettling fear that gripped the hearts of all present. The atmosphere was charged with tension, as uncertainty loomed over the situation. It was a powerful reminder of how fear can affect not just individuals, but entire groups. The trembling was a sign of something significant happening, a shift that would change the course of events. This moment illustrates how fear can unite people, even in their panic, as they face a common threat. It shows that sometimes, the very ground beneath us can reflect our inner turmoil, making us aware of the gravity of our circumstances. In times of crisis, our reactions can reveal our true nature and the strength of our resolve to confront challenges together. This trembling was a precursor to a pivotal moment in their story.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Samuel 14:15 to your life
When faced with fear or uncertainty, remember that you are not alone. Just as the people in this story experienced trembling together, we can find strength in community. Lean on others for support and face challenges as a united front. Embrace the moments of fear as opportunities for growth and resilience. Together, we can overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable. “Fear can be a catalyst for change.” “Embrace it.” “Grow from it.”
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 14:15 mean?
1 Samuel 14:15 describes a moment of intense fear that spread through the camp and surrounding areas. It highlights how both soldiers and raiders experienced a deep sense of dread, amplified by an earthquake, symbolizing a significant shift in their situation.
What is the significance of trembling in 1 Samuel 14:15?
The trembling in 1 Samuel 14:15 signifies a collective fear that unites people in times of crisis. It serves as a reminder of how fear can impact not just individuals, but entire groups, reflecting the gravity of their circumstances.
How does 1 Samuel 14:15 relate to fear and unity?
1 Samuel 14:15 shows that fear can bring people together as they face a common threat. The shared experience of trembling highlights the importance of community support during challenging times.
What can we learn from 1 Samuel 14:15?
From 1 Samuel 14:15, we learn that fear is a natural response to crisis, but it can also be a catalyst for growth and resilience. It encourages us to lean on others for support and confront challenges together.

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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