1 Samuel 28:6

He inquired of the LORD, but the LORD did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets.

Study Bible

He inquired of the LORD
This phrase indicates Saul's attempt to seek divine guidance. The Hebrew root for "inquired" is "שָׁאַל" (sha'al), which means to ask or consult. Historically, this reflects a common practice among the Israelites, where leaders sought God's will in times of crisis. Saul's inquiry signifies his desperation and recognition of his need for divine intervention, yet it also highlights his spiritual decline, as his previous disobedience had distanced him from God.

but the LORD did not answer him
This phrase underscores the silence of God in response to Saul's inquiry. The absence of an answer from God is significant, as it reflects the broken relationship between Saul and God due to Saul's repeated disobedience and rejection of God's commands. In the broader biblical narrative, God's silence can be a form of judgment, indicating a withdrawal of His presence and guidance.

by dreams
Dreams were one of the ways God communicated with His people in the Old Testament. The Hebrew word for "dreams" is "חֲלוֹמוֹת" (chalomot). Dreams were considered a legitimate means of divine revelation, as seen in the lives of figures like Joseph and Daniel. Saul's lack of dreams signifies a severance from this channel of divine communication, further emphasizing his spiritual isolation.

or Urim
The Urim, along with the Thummim, were sacred lots used by the high priest to discern God's will. The Hebrew term "אוּרִים" (Urim) is associated with light or revelation. The absence of an answer through the Urim indicates that Saul no longer had access to the priestly means of divine guidance, possibly due to his estrangement from the priesthood after the massacre of the priests at Nob.

or prophets
Prophets were God's messengers, conveying His word to the people. The Hebrew word "נְבִיאִים" (nevi'im) refers to these divinely appointed individuals. Saul's inability to receive guidance from prophets highlights the absence of prophetic revelation in his life, contrasting with earlier times when prophets like Samuel provided him with God's direction. This lack of prophetic insight marks a critical point in Saul's reign, as he is left without the spiritual leadership necessary to guide the nation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is seeking guidance from the Lord but receives no answer. His reign is marked by disobedience and a gradual departure from God's favor.

2. The LORD
The God of Israel, who is silent in response to Saul's inquiries due to Saul's previous disobedience and rejection of God's commands.

3. Dreams, Urim, Prophets
The traditional means by which God communicated with His people. Dreams were often used by God to reveal His will, the Urim (part of the high priest's breastplate) was used for divination, and prophets were God's messengers.

4. Endor
The location Saul visits after this verse, seeking a medium, which further demonstrates his desperation and departure from God's ways.

5. Samuel
The prophet who had previously anointed Saul and served as a spiritual guide for Israel. His death left Saul without a direct prophetic voice.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's inability to hear from God is a direct result of his disobedience. This serves as a warning that persistent sin can lead to spiritual silence.

The Importance of Seeking God Early
Saul's desperation highlights the importance of maintaining a consistent relationship with God, rather than seeking Him only in times of crisis.

God's Faithfulness to His Word
Despite Saul's failure, God's silence is consistent with His character and His previous warnings. God remains faithful to His word, even when it involves judgment.

The Dangers of Desperation
Saul's subsequent actions show how desperation can lead to further sin. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's timing and remain faithful, even when answers are delayed.

The Role of Prophets and Scripture
In the absence of direct revelation, believers today have the completed canon of Scripture and the Holy Spirit to guide them, emphasizing the importance of regular Bible study and prayer.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Saul's experience teach us about the importance of obedience in our relationship with God?

2. How can we ensure that we are seeking God consistently, rather than only in times of crisis?

3. In what ways can unconfessed sin affect our communication with God, and how can we address this in our lives?

4. How does the account of Saul illustrate the dangers of seeking guidance outside of God's prescribed means?

5. How can we apply the principles of James 1:5-8 in our daily decision-making and spiritual growth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 15
Saul's disobedience in not fully destroying the Amalekites, which led to God's rejection of him as king.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
God's prohibition against seeking mediums and spiritists, which Saul violates after this verse.

Psalm 66:18
The principle that unconfessed sin can hinder communication with God.

Proverbs 1:28-29
The warning that those who reject wisdom may call on God but not receive an answer.

James 1:5-8
Encouragement to ask God for wisdom with faith, contrasting Saul's lack of faith and obedience.