1 Samuel 15:1 Meaning and Explanation
“Samuel also said unto Saul, The LORD sent me to anoint thee to be king over his people, over Israel: now therefore hearken thou unto the voice of the words of the LORD.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Samuel reminds Saul that the same LORD who made him king now speaks, and Saul must listen.
What Does 1 Samuel 15:1 Mean?
The prophet Samuel comes to King Saul at the opening of a decisive chapter. He grounds his words in history: it was the LORD who sent Samuel to anoint Saul, lifting an unknown man to the throne of Israel. That gift now carries an obligation.
The crown was never Saul's to wield as he pleased; he held it under a higher King. So Samuel calls him to hearken to the voice of the words of the LORD. Every blessing we receive comes with a call to listen, and the measure of our gratitude is our willingness to obey the One who gave it.
1 Samuel 15:1 in the Original Language
shema (שָׁמַע), 'hearken' -- to hear in a way that bends the will toward obedience, not mere listening.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Samuel 15:1
What does 1 Samuel 15:1 mean?
Samuel reminds Saul that the same LORD who made him king now speaks, and Saul must listen.