Old Testament
1 Samuel 28:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Saul tried to seek guidance from the LORD, but the LORD didn't answer him — not through dreams, not through the Urim, and not through prophets.
Compare translations
And when Saul enquired of the LORD, the LORD answered him not, neither by dreams, nor by Urim, nor by prophets.
What 1 Samuel 28:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, King Saul is desperate for direction. He has turned to God, hoping for answers, but finds silence instead. Despite his efforts, including seeking dreams, using the Urim, and consulting prophets, he receives no guidance. This reflects a deep sense of isolation and despair. Saul's situation highlights the consequences of turning away from God earlier in his reign. Now, in his time of need, he feels abandoned. This silence from God can be unsettling, especially when we seek clarity in our lives. It serves as a reminder that our relationship with God is vital and that turning away can lead to a lack of communication when we need it most. Saul's experience teaches us the importance of maintaining a close connection with our faith, so we can receive guidance when we seek it. It also emphasizes the need for humility and repentance in our lives, as we navigate our own challenges and decisions, ensuring we remain open to divine communication and support in our journeys.
How to apply 1 Samuel 28:6 to your life
When you feel lost or uncertain, remember the importance of staying connected to your faith. Reflect on your relationship with God and consider if there are areas where you may have drifted away. Seek to restore that connection through prayer, reflection, and community support. This can open pathways for guidance and clarity in your life decisions. Stay humble and open to divine communication, especially in challenging times.
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 28:6
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 28:6
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 28:6 mean?
1 Samuel 28:6 describes King Saul's desperate search for guidance from God, but he receives no response. This reflects his isolation and the consequences of his earlier choices to turn away from God.
What is the significance of silence from God in 1 Samuel 28:6?
The silence from God in this verse highlights the importance of maintaining a close relationship with Him. It serves as a reminder that turning away from God can lead to a lack of guidance when we need it most.
What does the Urim refer to in 1 Samuel 28:6?
The Urim mentioned in 1 Samuel 28:6 refers to a sacred object used by the Israelites for divination or seeking God's will. Saul's failure to receive answers through the Urim indicates his disconnection from God.
Why did Saul seek guidance from God in 1 Samuel 28:6?
Saul sought guidance from God in 1 Samuel 28:6 because he was facing a critical situation and needed direction. His desperation reflects his awareness of his need for divine help.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.