Old Testament
1 Samuel 28:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Saul swore an oath to her by the LORD, saying, "As the LORD lives, you will not be punished for this."
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And Saul sware to her by the LORD, saying, As the LORD liveth, there shall no punishment happen to thee for this thing.
What 1 Samuel 28:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, King Saul is desperate and makes a promise to a medium, swearing by the name of the LORD that she will not face any consequences for her actions. This reflects Saul's deep fear and his willingness to compromise his values in a time of crisis. He is seeking guidance from a source that is forbidden, showing his desperation and lack of faith in God. Saul's oath highlights the tension between his role as king and his moral responsibilities. By invoking the LORD's name, he attempts to legitimize his promise, but it also reveals his inner turmoil and the lengths he will go to find answers. This moment serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and seeking help in the wrong places. Saul's actions lead to further complications in his life, illustrating how fear can drive us to make poor choices that conflict with our beliefs and values. Ultimately, this passage challenges us to consider where we seek guidance in our own lives and the importance of staying true to our principles.
How to apply 1 Samuel 28:10 to your life
When faced with difficult decisions, we may feel tempted to compromise our values. It's essential to seek guidance from trustworthy sources rather than turning to questionable ones. Reflect on your choices and ensure they align with your beliefs, even in tough times. Trusting in God can provide clarity and strength to navigate challenges wisely. Remember, your integrity matters most in moments of crisis, so stay true to yourself.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samuel's story: Saul and the Medium at Endor (1 Samuel 28:3–25)
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Samuel
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying 1 Samuel 28:10
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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 28:10 mean?
1 Samuel 28:10 shows King Saul making a desperate promise to a medium, swearing by the LORD that she will not be punished for her actions. This reflects Saul's fear and moral conflict as he seeks guidance from a forbidden source.
What is the significance of Saul's oath in 1 Samuel 28:10?
Saul's oath in 1 Samuel 28:10 highlights his desperation and willingness to compromise his values in a crisis. By invoking the LORD's name, he attempts to legitimize his promise, revealing his inner turmoil and the consequences of turning away from God.
What does the phrase 'As the LORD lives' mean in 1 Samuel 28:10?
The phrase 'As the LORD lives' in 1 Samuel 28:10 is an oath that Saul uses to emphasize the seriousness of his promise to the medium. It indicates that he is invoking God's name to assure her that she will not face punishment.
What lessons can we learn from 1 Samuel 28:10?
1 Samuel 28:10 teaches us about the dangers of compromising our values in difficult situations. It encourages us to seek guidance from trustworthy sources and to remain true to our principles, even when faced with fear or uncertainty.
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