Old Testament
1 Samuel 28:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
She served the meal to Saul and his servants, and they ate. Then they got up and left that same night.
Compare translations
And she brought it before Saul, and before his servants; and they did eat. Then they rose up, and went away that night.
What 1 Samuel 28:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, a woman serves a meal to King Saul and his men, showing hospitality even in a tense situation. They eat together, which signifies a brief pause in their troubled lives. After the meal, they rise and leave that very night, indicating urgency and perhaps a sense of foreboding. This scene highlights the importance of human connection, even in dark times. The act of sharing a meal can bring comfort and a sense of normalcy. It reminds us that even in our struggles, we can find moments of peace and togetherness. Saul's decision to leave immediately after eating suggests that he is facing a critical moment in his life, one that requires immediate action. This passage invites us to reflect on how we respond to our own challenges and the importance of companionship during difficult times. It emphasizes that even in our darkest hours, we can find solace in the company of others and the simple act of sharing food together, which can provide strength and support.
How to apply 1 Samuel 28:25 to your life
When facing tough situations, remember the power of connection. Sharing a meal with others can create a sense of comfort and support. Take time to connect with friends or family during challenging times, as these moments can provide strength and clarity in decision-making. Don't underestimate the importance of togetherness in your life journey. Be present for others as well as yourself, especially when times are tough. Keep the lines of communication open.
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: Saul and the Medium at Endor (1 Samuel 28:3–25)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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 28:25
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 28:25
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 28:25 teach about hospitality?
1 Samuel 28:25 illustrates the importance of hospitality, even in difficult circumstances. The woman serves King Saul and his servants a meal, highlighting how sharing food can foster connection and comfort. This act of kindness serves as a reminder that hospitality can provide solace and a moment of peace, even in the midst of turmoil.
Why did Saul and his servants leave immediately after eating?
Saul and his servants left immediately after the meal, indicating a sense of urgency and perhaps foreboding about their situation. This quick departure suggests that they were facing critical decisions or dangers that required immediate action, emphasizing the gravity of their circumstances and the need to respond swiftly.
How can we apply the message of this verse in our lives?
The message of 1 Samuel 28:25 encourages us to prioritize connection during tough times. Sharing a meal with loved ones can create a supportive environment that fosters comfort and clarity. When facing challenges, take the time to connect with others, as these moments can provide strength and help us navigate difficult decisions.
What themes are present in 1 Samuel 28:25?
Key themes in 1 Samuel 28:25 include hospitality, urgency, companionship, comfort, and decision-making. The verse highlights how sharing a meal can bring people together, even in dark times, and underscores the importance of human connection and support when facing life's challenges.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.