1 Samuel 2:9 Meaning and Explanation
“He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Hannah declares that God guards the steps of his faithful ones, while the wicked are silenced, for no one prevails by his own strength.
What Does 1 Samuel 2:9 Mean?
As her song moves toward its close, Hannah contrasts two destinies. God 'keeps the feet' of those devoted to him, guarding their way; the wicked, by contrast, are reduced to silence in darkness. The difference is not human might but God's keeping.
Her closing reason gathers up the whole song: 'by strength shall no man prevail.' All her reversals point to this. Victory is not won by human power but granted by God. The faithful are safe not because they are strong but because he holds them. This casts the heart wholly upon the Lord, who keeps his own and will not let their feet slip.
1 Samuel 2:9 in the Original Language
hasid (חָסִיד), 'saints' -- the devoted or faithful ones, bound to God by covenant loyalty.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Samuel 2:9
What does 1 Samuel 2:9 mean?
Hannah declares that God guards the steps of his faithful ones, while the wicked are silenced, for no one prevails by his own strength.