1 Samuel 28:10

Then Saul swore to her by the LORD: "As surely as the LORD lives, no punishment shall come upon you for this."

Study Bible

Then Saul swore
The act of swearing an oath in ancient Israel was a solemn and binding commitment. The Hebrew root for "swore" is "שָׁבַע" (shava), which conveys the seriousness of making a vow before God. In this context, Saul's oath is particularly significant because it reflects his desperation and willingness to violate God's commandments, as he seeks guidance from a medium, which was strictly forbidden (Leviticus 19:31). This highlights Saul's spiritual decline and the extent of his fear and insecurity.

to her by the LORD
Invoking the name of the LORD (YHWH) in an oath was meant to underscore the truthfulness and binding nature of the promise. The irony here is palpable; Saul, who had previously expelled mediums and spiritists from the land in obedience to God's law, now uses God's name to assure a medium of her safety. This reflects a deep contradiction in Saul's character and leadership, as he uses the sacred name of God to facilitate an act of disobedience.

As surely as the LORD lives
This phrase is a common oath formula in the Old Testament, emphasizing the certainty and seriousness of the statement. The Hebrew expression "חַי־יְהוָה" (chai-YHWH) underscores the living and active presence of God. Saul's use of this phrase is tragically ironic, as he acknowledges the living God while simultaneously engaging in practices that deny God's authority and commands.

no punishment shall come upon you
Saul promises the medium immunity from the consequences of her actions, which were punishable by death according to the Law (Leviticus 20:27). This assurance reveals Saul's moral and spiritual confusion, as he places his own authority above God's law. It also highlights the theme of fear and self-preservation that dominates Saul's later life, as he seeks to protect himself from perceived threats at any cost.

for this
The phrase "for this" refers to the act of conjuring up the spirit of Samuel, which Saul desperately seeks. This moment marks a pivotal point in Saul's reign, as he turns away from seeking God to seeking forbidden spiritual guidance. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of disobedience and the consequences of turning away from God's revealed will. Saul's actions here foreshadow his ultimate downfall and the tragic end of his kingship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is seeking guidance from a medium at Endor after God has stopped answering him through prophets or dreams.

2. The Medium at Endor
A woman who practices necromancy, whom Saul consults in desperation despite having previously banned such practices in Israel.

3. Endor
A location in ancient Israel where the medium resided, highlighting Saul's departure from God's commands by seeking forbidden counsel.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, whom Saul invokes in his oath, ironically while engaging in an act contrary to God's law.

5. Samuel
The deceased prophet whom Saul wishes to consult through the medium, representing Saul's desire for divine guidance despite his disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Desperation
Saul's actions demonstrate how desperation can lead to compromising one's faith and principles. Believers should be cautious not to let fear drive them away from God's commands.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's disobedience to God's laws regarding mediums highlights the importance of adhering to God's Word, even when it seems inconvenient or difficult.

The Irony of Oaths
Saul swears by the LORD while engaging in an act that defies God's commands, illustrating the futility of invoking God's name without true obedience.

Seeking Godly Counsel
This passage serves as a reminder to seek guidance from God and His Word, rather than turning to ungodly sources in times of uncertainty.

The Importance of Repentance
Saul's failure to repent and seek God's forgiveness led him further into sin. Believers should be quick to repent and realign with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Saul's decision to consult a medium reveal about his spiritual state and relationship with God?

2. How does Saul's oath in 1 Samuel 28:10 reflect a misunderstanding or misuse of God's name and authority?

3. In what ways can desperation lead us to compromise our faith, and how can we guard against this?

4. How do the prohibitions against necromancy in Leviticus and Deuteronomy apply to modern-day practices and beliefs?

5. Reflect on a time when you sought guidance. How can James 1:5 encourage you to seek wisdom from God in future decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:31
This verse warns against turning to mediums and spiritists, which Saul directly violates, showing his disobedience to God's law.

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.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, contrasting Saul's choice to seek guidance from a forbidden source.