1 Samuel 28:7

Then Saul said to his servants, "Find me a woman who is a medium, so I can go and consult her." "There is a medium at Endor," his servants replied.

Study Bible

Then Saul said to his servants
This phrase introduces a pivotal moment in the narrative of King Saul's reign. Saul, the first king of Israel, is depicted here in a state of desperation. The Hebrew word for "servants" (עֲבָדָיו, avadim) indicates those who are in service to the king, highlighting Saul's reliance on human counsel rather than divine guidance. Historically, Saul's kingship began with promise but deteriorated due to his disobedience to God. This moment reflects his spiritual decline and increasing isolation from God’s will.

Find me a woman who is a medium
The request for a "medium" (אֵשֶׁת בַּעֲלַת אוֹב, eshet ba'alat ov) is significant. In ancient Israel, mediums were individuals who claimed to communicate with the dead, a practice strictly forbidden by Mosaic Law (Leviticus 19:31, Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Saul's request underscores his desperation and the extent of his departure from God's commandments. The Hebrew term "ov" refers to a spirit or ghost, and the practice of necromancy was associated with pagan rituals, which were anathema to the worship of Yahweh.

so I may go and inquire of her
Saul's intention "to inquire" (וְאֶדְרְשָׁה, vedroshah) of the medium reveals his desire for guidance at a time when God was silent to him. The Hebrew root "darash" implies seeking or consulting, often used in the context of seeking divine will. Ironically, Saul seeks guidance from a source that God explicitly condemned, illustrating his spiritual blindness and the tragic irony of his situation. This act of seeking forbidden counsel marks a low point in Saul's spiritual journey.

'There is a woman at Endor who is a medium,'
The location "Endor" (עֵין־דּוֹר, Ein-Dor) is geographically significant, situated in the territory of Manasseh, near the Jezreel Valley. This area was known for its Canaanite influences, which may have included practices like necromancy. The mention of Endor highlights the lengths to which Saul was willing to go, traveling into enemy territory to find this medium. The historical context suggests a land where pagan practices persisted despite Israel's conquest, reflecting the ongoing struggle between the worship of Yahweh and surrounding pagan influences.

his servants replied
The response of Saul's servants indicates their awareness of the medium's presence, suggesting that such practices were known and perhaps tolerated despite their prohibition. This reflects the spiritual state of Israel under Saul's leadership, where adherence to God's law was compromised. The servants' compliance also underscores Saul's authority, yet it is an authority exercised in defiance of divine command, highlighting the tragic consequences of Saul's disobedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who was anointed by the prophet Samuel. At this point in his life, Saul is desperate and fearful due to the impending battle with the Philistines and God's silence.

2. Servants of Saul
These individuals serve the king and are tasked with finding a medium, despite the fact that Saul had previously expelled such individuals from the land.

3. Medium at Endor
A woman who practices necromancy, which is forbidden by God. She resides in Endor, a location within the territory of Israel.

4. Endor
A town in the territory of Issachar, known in this context for harboring a medium despite Saul's earlier ban on such practices.

5. Philistines
The enemies of Israel, whose impending attack causes Saul to seek guidance through forbidden means.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Desperation
Saul's desperation led him to seek guidance from a source he knew was against God's law. In times of fear and uncertainty, we must remember to turn to God and His Word, rather than forbidden or ungodly sources.

The Importance of Obedience
Saul's actions serve as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands. Disobedience can lead us further away from God's presence and guidance.

The Danger of Compromise
Saul's decision to consult a medium, despite knowing God's law, shows how compromise can lead to spiritual downfall. We must remain steadfast in our faith and convictions.

Seeking God in Silence
When God seems silent, it is crucial to remain patient and trust in His timing, rather than seeking answers through ungodly means.

The Role of Godly Counsel
Surrounding ourselves with godly counsel can help us make decisions that align with God's will, rather than relying on those who may lead us astray.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. How can we apply the lessons from Saul's disobedience to our own lives, especially when faced with difficult decisions?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are seeking God's guidance, even when He seems silent or distant?

4. How does the prohibition against mediums and spiritists in the Old Testament apply to modern-day practices and beliefs?

5. What steps can we take to avoid compromising our faith and convictions in a world that often encourages such compromises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:31 and Deuteronomy 18:10-12
These passages explicitly forbid the practice of consulting mediums and spiritists, highlighting the gravity of Saul's actions.

1 Samuel 15:23
This verse connects Saul's disobedience to witchcraft, emphasizing the seriousness of rebellion against God's commands.

Isaiah 8:19
This scripture warns against seeking mediums and spiritists, urging people to seek God instead.