1 Samuel 28:9

But the woman replied, "Surely you know what Saul has done, how he has killed the mediums and spiritists in the land. Why have you set a trap to get me killed?"

Study Bible

But the woman replied
This phrase introduces the response of the woman, often referred to as the "Witch of Endor." In the Hebrew text, the word for "woman" is "ishah," which simply denotes a female, but in this context, it refers to a medium. Her reply is cautious and defensive, indicating her awareness of the danger involved in her practice. Historically, mediums were often sought for their supposed ability to communicate with the dead, a practice condemned in Israelite law.

Surely you know what Saul has done
The woman's statement reflects the notoriety of Saul's actions against mediums and spiritists. Saul, the first king of Israel, had previously expelled these practitioners in obedience to God's law (Leviticus 19:31, Deuteronomy 18:10-12). This historical context highlights Saul's initial commitment to upholding the covenantal laws of Israel, which prohibited necromancy and divination.

He has cut off the mediums and spiritists from the land
The phrase "cut off" translates from the Hebrew "karath," meaning to eliminate or destroy. This action by Saul was a fulfillment of the divine command to purge the land of practices that were abominable to God. The terms "mediums" and "spiritists" refer to those who claim to communicate with the dead or spirits, practices that were prevalent in surrounding pagan cultures but forbidden in Israel.

Why have you set a trap for my life
The woman's question reveals her fear of entrapment and punishment. The Hebrew word for "trap" is "yakosh," which implies deceit or ensnaring. This reflects the precarious position of those who engaged in forbidden practices, as they were constantly at risk of being caught and punished under the law.

to bring about my death?
The ultimate fear expressed here is death, which was the prescribed penalty for engaging in necromancy (Leviticus 20:27). The woman's concern underscores the seriousness with which these laws were regarded in ancient Israel. Her fear is not just of physical death but of the spiritual and communal consequences of being found guilty of such practices.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who sought guidance from a medium after God stopped answering him through prophets or dreams.

2. The Woman (Medium of Endor)
A medium residing in Endor, whom Saul consults to summon the spirit of the prophet Samuel.

3. Endor
A location in ancient Israel where the medium resided, indicating Saul's desperation as he sought guidance outside of God's law.

4. Samuel
The deceased prophet whom Saul attempts to contact through the medium, representing Saul's past connection to God's guidance.

5. Mediums and Spiritists
Individuals who claim to communicate with the dead, whom Saul had previously expelled from Israel in obedience to God's law.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Saul's actions serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to God's laws, even in times of desperation.

Seeking Godly Counsel
Instead of turning to forbidden practices, believers should seek guidance through prayer, Scripture, and godly counsel.

Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's account illustrates the severe consequences that can result from disobedience to God's commands.

Desperation and Faith
In moments of desperation, maintaining faith and trust in God's timing and methods is crucial.

Discernment in Spiritual Matters
Christians are called to discern and reject practices that contradict biblical teachings, such as consulting mediums.

Bible Study Questions

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

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

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are seeking godly counsel and guidance in our daily lives?

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

5. Reflect on a time when you felt desperate for guidance. How did you seek God's direction, and what was the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:31
This verse warns against turning to mediums and spiritists, highlighting the prohibition that Saul violated.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
These verses explicitly forbid engaging in practices like divination and consulting the dead, which Saul disregarded.

1 Chronicles 10:13-14
This passage reflects on Saul's death, attributing it to his unfaithfulness and consulting a medium, reinforcing the consequences of his actions.