Old Testament
1 Samuel 9:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When Samuel laid eyes on Saul, the LORD said to him, "This is the man I told you about. He will reign over my people."
Compare translations
And when Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said unto him, Behold the man whom I spake to thee of! this same shall reign over my people.
What 1 Samuel 9:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, God reveals His plan to Samuel by pointing out Saul as the chosen leader for His people. Samuel, a prophet, had been seeking guidance from God about Israel's future. God’s choice of Saul, a man from humble beginnings, emphasizes that leadership can come from unexpected places. This moment marks a significant turning point for Israel, as they transition from being led by judges to having a king. God’s declaration shows His sovereignty and involvement in the lives of His people. It reminds us that God sees potential in individuals that others may overlook. Saul’s journey is just beginning, and he will face many challenges ahead. This encounter sets the stage for Saul’s reign and the unfolding of God’s plan for Israel. It’s a powerful reminder that God has a purpose for each of us, even when we may not see it ourselves. Trusting in God’s choices can lead to remarkable outcomes in our lives and communities, just as it did for Israel with Saul's leadership.
How to apply 1 Samuel 9:17 to your life
Reflect on how God might be guiding you in your own life. Are there areas where you feel unqualified or overlooked? Remember that God often chooses the unlikely to fulfill His plans. Trust in His vision for your life and embrace the journey ahead with faith and courage. You may be called to lead in ways you never imagined before. “Trust in God’s choices.” “Embrace your journey.” “Lead with faith.” “Be open to God’s guidance.”
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: Samuel Anoints Saul (1 Samuel 9:1–10:16)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Samuel
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. 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.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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 9:17
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 9:17
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 9:17 mean?
1 Samuel 9:17 reveals God's choice of Saul as the future king of Israel. It signifies a pivotal moment in Israel's history as they transition from judges to a monarchy, highlighting God's sovereignty in selecting leaders.
What is the significance of Saul in 1 Samuel 9:17?
Saul's mention in 1 Samuel 9:17 marks him as God's chosen leader for Israel, emphasizing that leadership can arise from humble beginnings. This verse sets the stage for Saul's reign and the unfolding of God's plan for His people.
What does the phrase 'this is the man I told you about' mean in 1 Samuel 9:17?
The phrase indicates that God had previously communicated to Samuel about Saul's future role as king. It underscores God's foreknowledge and intentionality in guiding Israel's leadership.
How does 1 Samuel 9:17 relate to God's guidance?
1 Samuel 9:17 illustrates how God guides His people by choosing leaders according to His divine plan. It serves as a reminder that God's choices may not always align with human expectations.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.