1 Samuel 28:25

She served it to Saul and his servants, and they ate. And that night they got up and left.

Study Bible

She served it
The phrase "she served it" refers to the woman of Endor, often called the witch of Endor, who prepared a meal for Saul and his servants. In the Hebrew context, the act of serving a meal is an act of hospitality and care, even in dire circumstances. This reflects the cultural importance of hospitality in ancient Israel, where sharing a meal was a sign of peace and fellowship. Despite the ominous circumstances, the woman fulfills her role, showing a sense of duty and perhaps compassion for Saul's desperate state.

to Saul and his servants
Saul, the first king of Israel, is depicted here in a moment of vulnerability and fear. His servants, who accompany him, represent his remaining loyal followers. Historically, Saul's reign began with promise but was marred by disobedience to God, leading to his downfall. This moment highlights the isolation and desperation of Saul, who, despite being king, finds himself reliant on a medium for guidance, a direct violation of God's commands. The presence of his servants underscores the loyalty that still exists, even as his kingdom crumbles.

and they ate
Eating together in the ancient Near East was more than just a physical necessity; it was a communal act that signified trust and alliance. In this context, the act of eating may symbolize a temporary reprieve from the spiritual and emotional turmoil Saul is experiencing. It is a moment of normalcy amidst chaos, yet it also foreshadows the impending doom that Saul faces, as he has turned away from God's guidance.

And that night
The mention of "that night" is significant, as night often symbolizes darkness, fear, and uncertainty in biblical literature. It is during the night that Saul receives the prophecy of his impending defeat and death. The darkness of the night mirrors the spiritual darkness that has enveloped Saul due to his disobedience and estrangement from God. This sets the stage for the tragic events that will soon unfold.

they got up and left
This phrase indicates a sense of urgency and finality. Saul and his servants leave the woman's house, returning to face the Philistines and the fulfillment of the prophecy given by the spirit of Samuel. The act of getting up and leaving can be seen as a metaphor for Saul's final journey, both physically and spiritually. It marks the end of his quest for answers and the beginning of the end of his reign. Historically, this moment is pivotal, as it leads directly to the battle of Gilboa, where Saul meets his demise.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is in a state of desperation and fear due to the impending battle with the Philistines and God's silence.

2. The Medium at Endor
A woman who practices necromancy, whom Saul consults in defiance of God's law, seeking guidance from the spirit of the deceased prophet Samuel.

3. Samuel
The deceased prophet who is summoned by the medium, delivering a message of judgment to Saul.

4. Endor
The location where Saul visits the medium, despite having previously banned such practices in Israel.

5. Saul's Servants
Those who accompany Saul to Endor, witnessing his actions and the events that unfold.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's actions at Endor are a culmination of his repeated disobedience to God. This serves as a warning that persistent rebellion against God's commands leads to spiritual and moral decline.

Seeking God in Times of Desperation
Instead of turning to forbidden practices, believers are encouraged to seek God through prayer and His Word, trusting in His timing and wisdom.

The Dangers of Compromise
Saul's visit to the medium illustrates how compromising on God's standards can lead to further sin and separation from God.

The Importance of Godly Counsel
Saul's lack of godly counsel and his reliance on forbidden practices highlight the need for believers to surround themselves with wise, God-fearing advisors.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
This passage reminds us of the reality of spiritual warfare and the importance of adhering to God's truth rather than seeking answers through ungodly means.

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 disobedience in this passage connect to earlier instances of his rebellion against God's commands?

3. In what ways can believers today be tempted to seek guidance outside of God's will, and how can we guard against this?

4. How does this passage illustrate the importance of seeking Godly counsel and remaining obedient to God's Word?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult decision. How did you seek God's guidance, and what can you learn from Saul's example in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:31
This verse warns against turning to mediums and spiritists, highlighting Saul's disobedience to God's commands.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
These verses explicitly prohibit necromancy and other occult practices, which Saul engages in during this event.

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