Old Testament
1 Samuel 6:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Make models of your tumors and models of the mice that are destroying your land, and give glory to the God of Israel. Perhaps he will lift his hand from you, your gods, and your land.
Compare translations
Wherefore ye shall make images of your emerods, and images of your mice that mar the land; and ye shall give glory unto the God of Israel: peradventure he will lighten his hand from off you, and from off your gods, and from off your land.
What 1 Samuel 6:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the people are instructed to create representations of the tumors and mice that are causing devastation in their land. This act is not just about making models; it’s a way to acknowledge the seriousness of their situation. By doing this, they are also called to give glory to the God of Israel, recognizing His power and authority. The hope is that by showing this humility and respect, God might choose to ease the suffering they are experiencing. It’s a reminder that sometimes, we need to confront our problems directly and acknowledge the forces at play in our lives. The act of creating these models symbolizes a deeper understanding of their plight and a desire for change. It’s about taking responsibility and seeking help from a higher power, which can lead to healing and restoration. This verse encourages us to reflect on our challenges and consider how we can honor what is greater than ourselves in the process of seeking solutions to our problems. It’s a call to action and faith in the face of adversity.
How to apply 1 Samuel 6:5 to your life
When facing difficulties, consider what you can learn from them. Acknowledge the challenges in your life and seek help, whether from others or a higher power. This can lead to personal growth and healing, transforming your struggles into opportunities for change and improvement. Embrace humility in your journey forward, and seek guidance with an open heart and mind.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
Explore more of the Bible
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 Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, 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.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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 6:5
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 6:5
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 6:5 mean?
1 Samuel 6:5 instructs the people to create models of the tumors and mice causing their suffering as a way to acknowledge their plight. This act symbolizes their recognition of the seriousness of their situation and their desire for divine intervention.
What is the significance of making models in 1 Samuel 6:5?
Making models in 1 Samuel 6:5 serves as a tangible acknowledgment of the problems they face. It reflects their humility and desire to honor God, hoping that by doing so, He might alleviate their suffering.
What does 'give glory to the God of Israel' mean in 1 Samuel 6:5?
'Give glory to the God of Israel' means to acknowledge God's power and authority. It suggests that by honoring God, the people hope to receive His mercy and relief from their suffering.
How can I apply the message of 1 Samuel 6:5 to my life?
You can apply the message of 1 Samuel 6:5 by acknowledging your challenges and seeking help, whether from others or a higher power. Embracing humility and taking responsibility for your situation can lead to personal growth and healing.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.