1 Samuel 9:23

And Samuel said to the cook, "Bring the portion I gave you and told you to set aside."

Study Bible

And Samuel said
The phrase begins with the prophet Samuel, a pivotal figure in Israel's history. Samuel was the last of the judges and the first of the prophets after Moses, serving as a bridge between the period of the judges and the establishment of the monarchy. His role as a prophet is significant, as he is God's mouthpiece, guiding Israel according to divine will. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) implies not just speaking but conveying a message with authority and purpose, underscoring Samuel's role as a divinely appointed leader.

to the cook
The cook here is a servant responsible for preparing the meal, which in this context is a sacrificial feast. In ancient Israel, meals were often communal and had religious significance, especially when associated with sacrifices. The cook's role is crucial as he handles the sacred portions of the meal, indicating the importance of proper ritual and order in worship. This highlights the communal and sacred nature of meals in Israelite culture, where food is not just sustenance but a means of fellowship and worship.

Bring the portion
The "portion" refers to a specific part of the sacrificial meal set aside for a particular purpose or person. In Hebrew, the word for portion (מָנָה, manah) can also mean a share or allotment, often with a sense of divine provision or blessing. This reflects the idea that God provides for His people, and certain portions are designated for specific individuals, symbolizing honor and divine favor.

I gave you
This phrase indicates that Samuel had previously instructed the cook to set aside a specific portion. It suggests forethought and intentionality, as Samuel, guided by God, prepares for Saul's anointing as king. The act of giving here is not just a physical transaction but a symbolic act of setting apart something for a divine purpose, reflecting God's sovereignty and providence in orchestrating events.

and told you to set aside
The instruction to "set aside" implies consecration or sanctification. In Hebrew, the concept of setting something apart (קָדַשׁ, qadash) is often associated with holiness and dedication to God. This act signifies that the portion is not ordinary but has been reserved for a special purpose, in this case, to honor Saul as the chosen king of Israel. It underscores the theme of divine election and preparation, as God sets apart individuals and events for His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet and judge of Israel, Samuel plays a crucial role in the transition from the period of judges to the establishment of the monarchy. He is the one who anoints Saul as the first king of Israel.

2. Saul
The son of Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin, Saul is chosen by God to be the first king of Israel. At this point in the account, he is unaware of his future role.

3. The Cook
An unnamed servant who follows Samuel's instructions to set aside a special portion of food for Saul, indicating Saul's future significance.

4. Ramah
The place where Samuel resides and where this event takes place. It serves as a center for Samuel's prophetic ministry.

5. The Meal
A ceremonial meal that signifies honor and the setting apart of Saul for a special purpose, foreshadowing his anointing as king.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointment
God orchestrates events and uses His servants to prepare us for His purposes, as seen in Samuel's preparation for Saul.

Symbolism of the Meal
The special portion signifies God's favor and calling. We should be attentive to the ways God sets us apart for His work.

Humility and Honor
Saul's initial humility is a reminder that God often elevates those who do not seek their own honor.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The cook's obedience to Samuel's instructions reflects the importance of following God's guidance in our lives.

Preparation for Leadership
God prepares us for leadership roles in His timing, often through unexpected means and situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the setting aside of a special portion for Saul foreshadow his future role as king, and what does this teach us about God's preparation in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we see God's hand in orchestrating events in our lives, similar to how He prepared Saul for leadership?

3. How does the concept of humility and being honored by God, as seen in Saul's account, relate to Jesus' teaching in Luke 14:8-11?

4. What are some practical ways we can be obedient to God's instructions, as demonstrated by the cook's actions in this passage?

5. Reflect on a time when you were set apart for a specific purpose by God. How did that experience prepare you for future responsibilities or leadership roles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 10:1
This verse describes Samuel anointing Saul as king, fulfilling the foreshadowing of the special portion set aside for him.

Genesis 43:34
Joseph gives Benjamin a portion five times larger than his brothers, symbolizing favor and future significance, similar to Saul's special portion.

Luke 14:8-11
Jesus teaches about humility and being honored in the presence of others, which parallels Saul's unexpected honor at the meal.