1 Samuel 28:21

When the woman came to Saul and saw how distraught he was, she said to him, "Look, your maidservant has obeyed your voice. I took my life in my hands and did as you told me.

Study Bible

When the woman came to Saul
The woman referred to here is the medium of Endor, often called the witch of Endor. In the Hebrew text, the word for "woman" is "ishah," which simply means a female person. Her role as a medium is significant, as it highlights the desperate state of Saul, who had previously expelled such practices from Israel (1 Samuel 28:3). This encounter underscores the spiritual decline of Saul, who, in his fear and desperation, seeks guidance from a source he once condemned.

and saw that he was terrified
The Hebrew word for "terrified" is "charad," which conveys a deep sense of fear and trembling. Saul's terror is not just physical but spiritual, as he faces the consequences of his disobedience to God. This fear is a stark contrast to the courage he once displayed as Israel's anointed king. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God and the peace that comes from trusting in Him, rather than succumbing to fear.

she said to him
The medium's willingness to speak to Saul, despite the potential danger, indicates her recognition of his authority and her own fear of the supernatural events she has witnessed. Her words are a mixture of concern and self-preservation, as she seeks to reassure Saul while also justifying her actions.

Look, your maidservant has obeyed you
The term "maidservant" is "amah" in Hebrew, denoting a female servant or slave. By referring to herself in this way, the woman emphasizes her subservience and obedience to Saul's command. This phrase highlights the irony of Saul's situation: the king of Israel, who should be leading his people in righteousness, is now dependent on the obedience of a medium, a practice he once outlawed.

I have taken my life in my hands
This expression indicates the risk the woman took in performing the act of summoning Samuel's spirit. The phrase "taken my life in my hands" is a Hebrew idiom that conveys the idea of endangering one's life. It reflects the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences she faced for engaging in forbidden practices. This highlights the seriousness of Saul's request and the lengths to which he has gone in his desperation.

and have done what you told me to do
The woman's compliance with Saul's request, despite the danger, underscores the authority Saul still holds, even in his fallen state. Her actions also reflect the moral ambiguity present in the narrative, as she fulfills a request that goes against God's commandments. This serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of straying from God's will and the moral complexities that arise when one does so.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is in a state of desperation and fear as he seeks guidance from a medium, having been abandoned by God due to his disobedience.

2. The Woman (Medium of Endor)
A woman who practices necromancy, whom Saul consults in violation of God's law, highlighting his spiritual decline and desperation.

3. Endor
A location in ancient Israel where the medium resided, representing a place of spiritual compromise for Saul.

4. Samuel (Referenced in Context)
The prophet who had died, whom Saul seeks to contact through the medium, symbolizing Saul's longing for divine guidance.

5. Philistines (Referenced in Context)
The enemy nation threatening Israel, whose impending attack contributes to Saul's fear and desperation.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's actions demonstrate the severe consequences of turning away from God's commands. His desperation leads him to seek forbidden practices, resulting in further spiritual decline.

The Danger of Desperation
In times of fear and uncertainty, turning to ungodly sources for guidance can lead to destructive choices. Believers are encouraged to seek God through prayer and His Word.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's Word is crucial. Saul's life serves as a cautionary tale of how disobedience can lead to spiritual and personal ruin.

The Role of Fear in Decision-Making
Fear can drive individuals to make irrational and sinful decisions. Trusting in God's sovereignty and seeking His peace is essential for sound decision-making.

The Need for Repentance
Saul's account highlights the need for genuine repentance. Instead of seeking God’s forgiveness, Saul sought human solutions, leading to his downfall.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Saul's decision to consult a medium reveal about his spiritual state, and how can we guard against similar compromises in our own lives?

2. How does the prohibition against necromancy in Leviticus and Deuteronomy apply to modern practices that may seem harmless but are spiritually dangerous?

3. In what ways can fear influence our decisions, and how can we ensure that our choices align with God's will during times of fear?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult decision. How did seeking God’s guidance through prayer and scripture impact your decision-making process?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of obedience to God’s Word, and what steps can we take to repent and return to God when we stray from His commands?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:31
This verse warns against turning to mediums and spiritists, which Saul violates, showing his departure from God's commands.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
These verses explicitly prohibit necromancy and other occult practices, underscoring the gravity of Saul's actions.

1 Samuel 15:22-23
Samuel's earlier rebuke of Saul for disobedience, emphasizing that rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, which Saul now engages in.