1 Samuel 9:11

And as they were climbing the hill to the city, they met some young women coming out to draw water and asked, "Is the seer here?"

Study Bible

As they were going up the hill to the city
This phrase sets the scene for a significant encounter. The act of "going up" suggests a journey not only in the physical sense but also in a spiritual or divine sense. In Hebrew, the word for "hill" (גִּבְעָה, gib'ah) often signifies a place of elevation, both geographically and spiritually. The city they approach is likely Ramah, where Samuel resides. This ascent can symbolize the approach to a higher understanding or divine appointment, as Saul is unknowingly on the path to his anointing as king.

they met some young women coming out to draw water
The presence of "young women" (נַעֲרוֹת, na'arot) is significant in the biblical narrative. Women drawing water is a common biblical motif, often associated with divine encounters or significant events (e.g., Rebekah in Genesis 24, Rachel in Genesis 29). Water drawing was a daily task, yet here it becomes a divine appointment. The act of drawing water symbolizes life and sustenance, and these women become unwitting participants in God's unfolding plan for Israel.

and they asked them, 'Is the seer here?'
The term "seer" (רֹאֶה, ro'eh) is an older term for a prophet, one who sees or perceives divine visions. This inquiry indicates Saul's and his servant's quest for guidance, reflecting a common practice of seeking divine insight through a prophet. The use of "seer" emphasizes the role of the prophet as one who provides spiritual vision and direction. In the broader biblical context, this highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance through His appointed messengers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The son of Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin, who is on a journey to find his father's lost donkeys. This journey leads to his anointing as the first king of Israel.

2. Servant
Accompanies Saul on his journey and suggests seeking the guidance of a seer, demonstrating faith and practicality.

3. Young Women
They are drawing water, a common task in ancient times, and provide directions to Saul and his servant, showing the role of women in daily life and divine encounters.

4. Seer (Samuel)
The prophet and judge of Israel, who is later revealed to be the one Saul is seeking. The term "seer" (Hebrew: "ro'eh") indicates one who sees visions or has insight from God.

5. City
The unnamed city where Samuel resides, representing a place of divine appointment and revelation.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointments
God orchestrates events and encounters in our lives for His purposes. We should be attentive to seemingly ordinary moments that may have divine significance.

Seeking Godly Counsel
Like Saul and his servant seeking the seer, we should seek guidance from those who are spiritually mature and have insight from God.

Role of Women
The young women play a crucial role in directing Saul. This highlights the importance of women in God's plans and the value of their contributions.

Faith in Action
The servant's suggestion to seek the seer demonstrates faith in action. We should be proactive in seeking God's will and direction in our lives.

Preparation for Leadership
Saul's journey is part of his preparation for leadership. God often uses ordinary circumstances to prepare us for future roles and responsibilities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the encounter with the young women at the well demonstrate God's providence in Saul's journey? Can you think of a time when a seemingly ordinary encounter had a significant impact on your life?

2. In what ways can we seek godly counsel in our own lives, and how can this be related to the advice given in Proverbs 3:5-6?

3. How does the role of the young women in this passage challenge or affirm your understanding of the role of women in biblical accounts and in the church today?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to take a step of faith, like Saul's servant. What was the outcome, and how did it shape your understanding of God's guidance?

5. How can we prepare ourselves for future roles and responsibilities that God may have for us, as seen in Saul's journey to kingship? Consider connections to other biblical figures who were prepared by God for leadership.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24
The encounter at the well with Rebekah, which also involves divine guidance and provision, parallels the meeting of Saul with the young women.

John 4
Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well, highlighting themes of divine appointment and revelation.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord for guidance, as Saul and his servant seek direction from the seer.