1 Samuel 19:20

1 Samuel 19:20 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

he sent messengers to capture him. But when they saw the group of prophets prophesying, with Samuel leading them, the Spirit of God came upon them, and Saul’s messengers also began to prophesy.

King James Version KJV

And Saul sent messengers to take David: and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as appointed over them, the Spirit of God was upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied.

American Standard Version ASV

And Saul sent messengers to take David: and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as head over them, the Spirit of God came upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And Saul sent men to take David; and when they saw the band of prophets at work, with Samuel in his place at their head, the spirit of God came on Saul's men, and they became like prophets.

Free Bible Version FBV

he sent messengers to arrest him. But when they saw a group of prophets prophesying with Samuel leading out, the Spirit of God came on Saul's messengers and they started prophesying too.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And Saul sent messengers to take Dauid: and when they sawe a company of Prophets prophecying, and Samuel standing as appoynted ouer them, the Spirit of God fell vpon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophecied.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And Saul sendeth messengers to take David, and they see the assembly of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing, set over them, and the Spirit of God is on Saul's messengers, and they prophesy — they also.

World English Bible WEB

Saul sent messengers to seize David; and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as head over them, God’s Spirit came on Saul’s messengers, and they also prophesied.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

So Saul sent officers to take David: and when they saw a company of prophets prophesying, and Samuel presiding over them, the spirit of the Lord came also upon them, and they likewise began to prophesy.

Translation for Translators T4T

So Saul sent some messengers to capture David. When those messengers arrived in Ramah, they met some men who were proclaiming ecstatic messages, and Samuel was there, as their leader. When Saul’s messengers met them, the Spirit of God took control of Saul’s men, and they also spoke ecstatically.

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 19:20

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

1 Samuel 19:20 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יִּשְׁלַ֨ח שָׁא֣וּל מַלְאָכִים֮ לָ/קַ֣חַת אֶת דָּוִד֒ וַ/יַּ֗רְא אֶֽת לַהֲקַ֤ת הַ/נְּבִיאִים֙ נִבְּאִ֔ים וּ/שְׁמוּאֵ֕ל עֹמֵ֥ד נִצָּ֖ב עֲלֵי/הֶ֑ם וַ/תְּהִ֞י עַֽל מַלְאֲכֵ֤י שָׁאוּל֙ ר֣וּחַ אֱלֹהִ֔ים וַ/יִּֽתְנַבְּא֖וּ גַּם הֵֽמָּה

וַ/יִּשְׁלַ֨ח shâlach H7971 to send Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

שָׁא֣וּל Shâʼûwl H7586 Shaul N-proper

מַלְאָכִים֮ mălʼâk H4397 messenger N-mp

לָ/קַ֣חַת lâqach H3947 to take Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

דָּוִד֒ Dâvid H1732 David N-proper

וַ/יַּ֗רְא râʼâh H7200 Provider Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

אֶֽת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

לַהֲקַ֤ת lahăqâh H3862 company N-fs

הַ/נְּבִיאִים֙ nâbîyʼ H5030 prophet Art | N-mp

נִבְּאִ֔ים nâbâʼ H5012 to prophesy V-Niphal

וּ/שְׁמוּאֵ֕ל Shᵉmûwʼêl H8050 Shemuel Conj | N-proper

עֹמֵ֥ד ʻâmad H5975 to stand V-Qal

נִצָּ֖ב nâtsab H5324 to stand V-Niphal

עֲלֵי/הֶ֑ם ʻal H5921 upon Prep | Suff

וַ/תְּהִ֞י hâyâh H1961 to be Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

עַֽל ʻal H5921 upon Prep

מַלְאֲכֵ֤י mălʼâk H4397 messenger N-mp

שָׁאוּל֙ Shâʼûwl H7586 Shaul N-proper

ר֣וּחַ rûwach H7307 spirit N-cs

אֱלֹהִ֔ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 God N-mp

וַ/יִּֽתְנַבְּא֖וּ nâbâʼ H5012 to prophesy Conj | V-Hithpael-ConsecImperf-3mp

גַּם gam H1571 also DirObjM

הֵֽמָּה hêm H1992 they(masc.) Pron

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 19:20

וַ/יִּשְׁלַ֨ח shâlach H7971 "to send" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

To send or depart is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which has various applications in the Bible. It can describe sending someone or something away, or letting something go.

Definition: : depart/send 1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to send 1a2) to stretch out, extend, direct 1a3) to send away 1a4) to let loose 1b) (Niphal) to be sent 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out 1c2) to let go, set free 1c3) to shoot forth (of branches) 1c4) to let down 1c5) to shoot 1d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled 1e) (Hiphil) to send

Usage: Occurs in 790 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring (on the way), cast (away, out), conduct, [idiom] earnestly, forsake, give (up), grow long, lay, leave, let depart (down, go, loose), push away, put (away, forth, in, out), reach forth, send (away, forth, out), set, shoot (forth, out), sow, spread, stretch forth (out). See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 9:27; Joshua 14:11.

שָׁא֣וּל Shâʼûwl H7586 "Shaul" N-proper

Shaul is a personal name meaning desired, given to several individuals in the Bible, including a Benjamite who became the first king of Israel and a Levite living during the time of the Divided Monarchy. He is mentioned in 1 Chronicles and 1 Samuel.

Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ch.6.24; son of: Uzziah (H5818H); father of: Elkanah (H0511I); also called Joel at 1Ch.6.36; Also named: yo.el (יוֹאֵל "Joel" H3100U) § Saul or Shaul = "desired" 1) a Benjamite, son of Kish, and the 1st king of Israel 2) an early king of Edom and a successor of Samlah 3) a son of Simeon 4) a Levite, son of Uzziah

Usage: Occurs in 335 OT verses. KJV: Saul, Shaul. See also: Genesis 36:37; 1 Samuel 16:22; 1 Samuel 24:5.

מַלְאָכִים֮ mălʼâk H4397 "messenger" N-mp

A messenger or representative, often of God, like an angel, prophet, or priest, as seen in Isaiah 42:19 and Haggai 1:13, carrying out God's will.

Definition: : messenger 1) messenger, representative 1a) messenger 1b) angel 1c) the theophanic angel

Usage: Occurs in 196 OT verses. KJV: ambassador, angel, king, messenger. See also: Genesis 16:7; 2 Samuel 24:16; Psalms 34:8.

לָ/קַ֣חַת lâqach H3947 "to take" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.

Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)

Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

דָּוִד֒ Dâvid H1732 "David" N-proper

David was the youngest son of Jesse and a king of Judah, first mentioned in Ruth 4:17, and an ancestor of Jesus.

Definition: A king of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at Rut.4.17; son of: Jesse (H3448) and Nahash (H5176I); brother of: Eliab (H0446I), Abinadab (H0041I), Shimeah (H8093), Zeruiah (H6870), Abigail (H0026H)(?), Nethanel (H5417H), Raddai (H7288), Ozem (H0684) and Elihu (H0453J); married to Michal (H4324), Abigail (H0026), Ahinoam (H0293H), Maacah (H4601I), Haggith (H2294), Abital (H0037), Eglah (H5698) and Bathsheba (H1339); father of: Amnon (H0550), Chileab (H3609), Absalom (H0053), Adonijah (H0138), Shephatiah (H8203), Ithream (H3507), Shammua (H8051H), Shobab (H7727), Nathan (H5416), Solomon (H8010), Ibhar (H2984), Elishua (H0474), Nepheg (H5298H), Japhia (H3309I), Elishama (H0476H), Eliada (H0450), Eliphelet (H0467), Tamar (H8559H), Elpelet (H0467I), Nogah (H5052) and Jerimoth (H3406N) Also named: Daueid, Dauid, Dabid (Δαυείδ, Δαυίδ, Δαβίδ "David" G1138) § David = "beloved" youngest son of Jesse and second king of Israel

Usage: Occurs in 912 OT verses. KJV: David. See also: Ruth 4:17; 1 Samuel 20:41; 1 Samuel 27:9.

וַ/יַּ֗רְא râʼâh H7200 "Provider" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

The Hebrew word for provider means to see or look after, and is used to describe God's care for his people. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible, including in Genesis and other books.

Definition: (Lord will) Provide, cause to be seen. This name means to see, look at, inspect, look after

Usage: Occurs in 1206 OT verses. KJV: advise self, appear, approve, behold, [idiom] certainly, consider, discern, (make to) enjoy, have experience, gaze, take heed, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] joyfully, lo, look (on, one another, one on another, one upon another, out, up, upon), mark, meet, [idiom] be near, perceive, present, provide, regard, (have) respect, (fore-, cause to, let) see(-r, -m, one another), shew (self), [idiom] sight of others, (e-) spy, stare, [idiom] surely, [idiom] think, view, visions. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 41:41; Exodus 33:13.

אֶֽת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

לַהֲקַ֤ת lahăqâh H3862 "company" N-fs

The Hebrew word for a group or company of people, often used to describe a gathering or assembly. In the Bible, it appears in contexts where people come together for a common purpose or event.

Definition: company, group, band

Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: company. See also: 1 Samuel 19:20.

הַ/נְּבִיאִים֙ nâbîyʼ H5030 "prophet" Art | N-mp

A prophet is someone who speaks for God, like a spokesperson. This word is used in the Bible to describe true and false prophets, like those in 1 and 2 Kings.

Definition: 1) spokesman, speaker, prophet 1a) prophet 1b) false prophet 1c) heathen prophet Aramaic equivalent: ne.vi (נְבִיא "prophet" H5029)

Usage: Occurs in 288 OT verses. KJV: prophecy, that prophesy, prophet. See also: Genesis 20:7; 2 Kings 24:2; Psalms 51:2.

נִבְּאִ֔ים nâbâʼ H5012 "to prophesy" V-Niphal

To prophesy means to speak or sing under the influence of the divine spirit, as seen in the prophets of the Bible. This can include predicting the future or simply speaking God's message to others.

Definition: 1) to prophesy 1a) (Niphal) 1a1) to prophesy 1a1a) under influence of divine spirit 1a1b) of false prophets 1b)(Hithpael) 1b1) to prophesy 1b1a) under influence of divine spirit 1b1b) of false prophets Aramaic equivalent: ne.va (נבא "to prophesy" H5013)

Usage: Occurs in 102 OT verses. KJV: prophesy(-ing), make self a prophet. See also: Numbers 11:25; Jeremiah 27:16; Jeremiah 2:8.

וּ/שְׁמוּאֵ֕ל Shᵉmûwʼêl H8050 "Shemuel" Conj | N-proper

Shemuel was the name of three Israelites, including a judge and prophet of Israel during the time of King Saul and King David. His name means his name is El and he was the son of Elkanah and Hannah.

Definition: A man of the tribe of Issachar living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, only mentioned at 1Ch.7.2; son of: Tola (H8439); brother of: Uzzi (H5813H), Rephaiah (H7509I), Jeriel (H3400), Jahmai (H3181) and Ibsam (H3005) § Samuel = "his name is El" 1) son of Elkanah by his wife Hannah and judge or prophet of Israel during the days of Saul and David 2) son Ammihud and the prince of the tribe of Simeon who was chosen to divide the land of Canaan between the tribes. Spelled 'Shemuel' 3) son of Tola and grandson of Issachar. Spelled 'Shemuel'

Usage: Occurs in 120 OT verses. KJV: Samuel, Shemuel. See also: Numbers 34:20; 1 Samuel 12:1; Psalms 99:6.

עֹמֵ֥ד ʻâmad H5975 "to stand" V-Qal

Means 'to stand' in a strong sense, like in Exodus 17:12 where Moses stood with his arms up to help Israel win a battle.

Definition: : stand/stop/establish 1) to stand, remain, endure, take one's stand 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to stand, take one's stand, be in a standing attitude, stand forth, take a stand, present oneself, attend upon, be or become servant of 1a2) to stand still, stop (moving or doing), cease 1a3) to tarry, delay, remain, continue, abide, endure, persist, be steadfast 1a4) to make a stand, hold one's ground 1a5) to stand upright, remain standing, stand up, rise, be erect, be upright 1a6) to arise, appear, come on the scene, stand forth, appear, rise up or against 1a7) to stand with, take one's stand, be appointed, grow flat, grow insipid 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to station, set 1b2) to cause to stand firm, maintain 1b3) to cause to stand up, cause to set up, erect 1b4) to present (one) before (king) 1b5) to appoint, ordain, establish 1c) (Hophal) to be presented, be caused to stand, be stood before

Usage: Occurs in 497 OT verses. KJV: abide (behind), appoint, arise, cease, confirm, continue, dwell, be employed, endure, establish, leave, make, ordain, be (over), place, (be) present (self), raise up, remain, repair, [phrase] serve, set (forth, over, -tle, up), (make to, make to be at a, with-) stand (by, fast, firm, still, up), (be at a) stay (up), tarry. See also: Genesis 18:8; Joshua 21:44; 1 Chronicles 6:17.

נִצָּ֖ב nâtsab H5324 "to stand" V-Niphal

To stand or station oneself, either physically or as an appointed official. This word is used in various contexts, including setting up a monument or establishing a leader. It can also mean to stand firm or be established in a position.

Definition: 1) to stand, take one's stand, stand upright, be set (over), establish 1a) (Niphal) 1a1) to station oneself, take one's stand 1a2) to stand, be stationed 1a3) to stand, take an upright position 1a4) to be stationed, be appointed 1a5) deputy, prefect, appointed, deputed (subst) 1a6) to stand firm 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to station, set 1b2) to set up, erect 1b3) to cause to stand erect 1b4) to fix, establish 1c) (Hophal) to be fixed, be determined, be stationary

Usage: Occurs in 75 OT verses. KJV: appointed, deputy, erect, establish, [idiom] Huzzah (by mistake for a proper name), lay, officer, pillar, present, rear up, set (over, up), settle, sharpen, establish, (make to) stand(-ing, still, up, upright), best state. See also: Genesis 18:2; 1 Samuel 15:12; Psalms 39:6.

עֲלֵי/הֶ֑ם ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)

Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.

וַ/תְּהִ֞י hâyâh H1961 "to be" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone

Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.

עַֽל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

מַלְאֲכֵ֤י mălʼâk H4397 "messenger" N-mp

A messenger or representative, often of God, like an angel, prophet, or priest, as seen in Isaiah 42:19 and Haggai 1:13, carrying out God's will.

Definition: : messenger 1) messenger, representative 1a) messenger 1b) angel 1c) the theophanic angel

Usage: Occurs in 196 OT verses. KJV: ambassador, angel, king, messenger. See also: Genesis 16:7; 2 Samuel 24:16; Psalms 34:8.

שָׁאוּל֙ Shâʼûwl H7586 "Shaul" N-proper

Usage: Occurs in 335 OT verses. KJV: Saul, Shaul. See also: Genesis 36:37; 1 Samuel 16:22; 1 Samuel 24:5.

ר֣וּחַ rûwach H7307 "spirit" N-cs

In the Bible, this word for spirit refers to the breath of life, the wind, or a person's mind and emotions, as seen in the book of Ezekiel.

Definition: : spirit 1) wind, breath, mind, spirit 1a) breath 1b) wind 1b1) of heaven 1b2) quarter (of wind), side 1b3) breath of air 1b4) air, gas 1b5) vain, empty thing 1c) spirit (as that which breathes quickly in animation or agitation) 1c1) spirit, animation, vivacity, vigour 1c2) courage 1c3) temper, anger 1c4) impatience, patience 1c5) spirit, disposition (as troubled, bitter, discontented) 1c6) disposition (of various kinds), unaccountable or uncontrollable impulse 1c7) prophetic spirit 1d) spirit (of the living, breathing being in man and animals) 1d1) as gift, preserved by God, God's spirit, departing at death, disembodied being 1e) spirit (as seat of emotion) 1e1) desire 1e2) sorrow, trouble 1f) spirit 1f1) as seat or organ of mental acts 1f2) rarely of the will 1f3) as seat especially of moral character 1g) Spirit of God, the third person of the triune God, the Holy Spirit, coequal, coeternal with the Father and the Son 1g1) as inspiring ecstatic state of prophecy 1g2) as impelling prophet to utter instruction or warning 1g3) imparting warlike energy and executive and administrative power 1g4) as endowing men with various gifts 1g5) as energy of life 1g6) as manifest in the Shekinah glory 1g7) never referred to as a depersonalised force

Usage: Occurs in 348 OT verses. KJV: air, anger, blast, breath, [idiom] cool, courage, mind, [idiom] quarter, [idiom] side, spirit(-ual), tempest, [idiom] vain, (whirl-) wind(-y). See also: Genesis 1:2; Job 6:26; Psalms 1:4.

אֱלֹהִ֔ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 "God" N-mp

The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.

Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.

וַ/יִּֽתְנַבְּא֖וּ nâbâʼ H5012 "to prophesy" Conj | V-Hithpael-ConsecImperf-3mp

To prophesy means to speak or sing under the influence of the divine spirit, as seen in the prophets of the Bible. This can include predicting the future or simply speaking God's message to others.

Usage: Occurs in 102 OT verses. KJV: prophesy(-ing), make self a prophet. See also: Numbers 11:25; Jeremiah 27:16; Jeremiah 2:8.

גַּם gam H1571 "also" DirObjM

Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.

Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike

Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.

הֵֽמָּה hêm H1992 "they(masc.)" Pron

This Hebrew word is used to refer to a group of men, emphasizing that it is specifically them. It is often translated as 'they' or 'them' in the Bible, and appears in books like Exodus and Isaiah.

Definition: they, these, the same, who

Usage: Occurs in 524 OT verses. KJV: it, like, [idiom] (how, so) many (soever, more as) they (be), (the) same, [idiom] so, [idiom] such, their, them, these, they, those, which, who, whom, withal, ye. See also: Genesis 3:7; Deuteronomy 19:17; 2 Kings 1:18.

Study Notes — 1 Samuel 19:20

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
1 Samuel 19:20 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 19:20
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 19:20
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:20
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:20
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:20
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:20
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 19:20
Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 19:20
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:20
Sermons on 1 Samuel 19:20

Context — Saul Tries to Kill David

18So David ran away and escaped. And he went to Samuel at Ramah and told him all that Saul had done to him. Then he and Samuel went to Naioth and stayed there. 19When Saul was told that David was at Naioth in Ramah,

20he sent messengers to seize him. But when they saw the group of prophets prophesying, with Samuel leading them, the Spirit of God came upon them, and Saul’s messengers also began to prophesy.

21When this was reported to Saul, he sent more messengers, but they began to prophesy as well. So Saul tried again and sent messengers a third time, and even they began to prophesy. 22Finally, Saul himself left for Ramah and came to the large cistern at Secu, where he asked, “Where are Samuel and David?” “At Naioth in Ramah,” he was told.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Joel 2:28	And afterward, I will pour out My Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.
2	John 7:32	When the Pharisees heard the crowd whispering these things about Jesus, they and the chief priests sent officers to arrest Him.
3	1 Samuel 10:5–6	After that you will come to Gibeah of God, where the Philistines have an outpost. As you approach the city, you will meet a group of prophets coming down from the high place, preceded by harps, tambourines, flutes, and lyres, and they will be prophesying. Then the Spirit of the LORD will rush upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be transformed into a different person.
4	1 Samuel 10:10	When Saul and his servant arrived at Gibeah, a group of prophets met him. Then the Spirit of God rushed upon him, and he prophesied along with them.
5	1 Corinthians 14:24–25	But if an unbeliever or uninstructed person comes in while everyone is prophesying, he will be convicted and called to account by all, and the secrets of his heart will be made known. So he will fall facedown and worship God, proclaiming, “God is truly among you!”
6	1 Samuel 19:11	Then Saul sent messengers to David’s house to watch him and kill him in the morning. But David’s wife Michal warned him, “If you do not run for your life tonight, tomorrow you will be dead!”
7	1 Corinthians 14:3	But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort.
8	1 Samuel 19:14	When Saul sent the messengers to seize David, Michal said, “He is ill.”
9	Numbers 11:25–26	Then the LORD came down in the cloud and spoke to him, and He took some of the Spirit that was on Moses and placed that Spirit on the seventy elders. As the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied—but they never did so again. Two men, however, had remained in the camp—one named Eldad and the other Medad—and the Spirit rested on them. They were among those listed, but they had not gone out to the tent, and they prophesied in the camp.
10	John 7:45–52	Then the officers returned to the chief priests and Pharisees, who asked them, “Why didn’t you bring Him in?” “Never has anyone spoken like this man!” the officers answered. “Have you also been deceived?” replied the Pharisees. “Have any of the rulers or Pharisees believed in Him? But this crowd that does not know the law, they are under a curse.” Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who himself was one of them, asked, “Does our law convict a man without first hearing from him to determine what he has done?” “Aren’t you also from Galilee?” they replied. “Look into it, and you will see that no prophet comes out of Galilee.”

1 Samuel 19:20 Summary

In 1 Samuel 19:20, we see how God protected David from Saul's messengers by causing them to prophesy and forget their mission. This event shows that God is all-powerful and can use anyone to accomplish His will, as stated in Romans 8:28 and Psalm 115:3. It also highlights the importance of seeking God's presence and guidance, as seen in Psalm 119:105 and Matthew 7:7-8. By trusting in God's sovereignty and protection, we can have peace and confidence in the midst of challenging circumstances, just like David did.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Spirit of God coming upon Saul's messengers in 1 Samuel 19:20?

The Spirit of God coming upon Saul's messengers signifies God's intervention and protection of David, as seen in 1 Samuel 19:20, and it also shows that God can use anyone to accomplish His will, even those who may not be believers, as stated in Exodus 4:11 and Isaiah 45:5.

Why did Saul's messengers begin to prophesy when they saw the group of prophets prophesying with Samuel leading them?

Saul's messengers began to prophesy because the Spirit of God came upon them, as stated in 1 Samuel 19:20, and this was a demonstration of God's power and authority, as seen in 1 Corinthians 12:11 and Acts 2:17-18.

What does this verse reveal about Samuel's leadership and the group of prophets?

This verse reveals that Samuel was a respected leader among the prophets, and that the group of prophets was a community of believers who were seeking God's will and guidance, as seen in 1 Samuel 19:18 and Acts 13:1-3.

How does this event relate to the overall story of David and Saul in 1 Samuel?

This event is part of the larger narrative of David's escape from Saul's attempts to kill him, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:11 and 1 Samuel 19:11, and it highlights God's protection and provision for David, as stated in Psalm 23:4 and Psalm 32:7.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways that God has intervened in your life to protect or guide you, and how can you trust Him more in the future?
How can you, like Samuel, be a leader or influencer for God's kingdom, and what steps can you take to seek God's will and guidance?
What are some ways that you can, like the group of prophets, seek God's presence and prophetic guidance in your life, and how can you be more open to the Holy Spirit's leading?
How can you, like David, trust God's sovereignty and protection in the midst of challenging circumstances, and what Bible verses can you meditate on to increase your faith?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 19:20

And Saul sent messengers to take David,.... Notwithstanding the sacred place he was in, so bent was he upon his destruction: and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying; or praising, as

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 19:20

And it was told Saul, saying, Behold, David is at Naioth in Ramah. No JFB commentary on these verses.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:20

Saul sent messengers to take David: thus Saul’ s wickedness and fury increased; and he that at first used only secret practices against David, now breaks forth into open and impudent hostilities; plainly declaring that he neither feared God nor reverenced man. He would have punished Samuel, as afterwards he did Abimelech, for giving David entertainment, but that he feared the people, who had so great and unanimous a veneration for him. Prophesying, i.e. speaking of God, or of the things of God, by Divine inspiration; either praising God, or instructing men. Compare . Appointed over them, to instruct, moderate, and direct them in those holy exercises. For though they prophesied by Divine inspiration, which Samuel could not govern; yet they were both to prepare and dispose themselves for it beforehand, and to make good improvement of it afterwards, in both which they needed Samuel’ s counsel and assistance. And whereas some might falsely pretend to those raptures, or the devil might transform himself into an angel of light, and convey some evil or false suggestions into some of their minds, Samuel’ s presence and judgment was necessary to prevent and to detect such impostures. Besides, Samuel would by his present conjunction with them in those holy exercises encourage them, and stir up others to the coveting of those gifts, and the performance of such religious duties. They also prophesied; being inspired by God to do so, as wicked Balaam also was; that, being rapt up into such an ecstasy, their minds might be wholly taken up with those matters, and quite taken off from their design of seizing David.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:20

1 Samuel 19:20 And Saul sent messengers to take David: and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing [as] appointed over them, the Spirit of God was upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied.Ver. 20. And Saul sent messengers to take David.] Contra gentes, as they say, and whosoever should say nay to it: not sparing the prophets, but if they opposed, putting them all to the sword, as he afterwards did the priests of Nob. All malice is bloody and barbarous so far as it dare show itself. And when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying.] That is, Praising God, praying, and preaching, to the no small comfort of distressed David, who might well say, "In the multitude of my perplexed thoughts within me, thy comforts have refreshed my soul." And Samuel standing as appointed over them.] As their president. For though Samuel had given over the public government of the commonwealth, yet he would not live to himself, as did Sulla after that he had resigned the dictatorship: but as Cato - after that he had ridden in triumph, and so had a writ of case given him - exercised himself still for the good of the public, - “ Ut qui toti genitum se credidit orbi. ” So Samuel hated to be idle or unprofitable: and therefore exercised himself in his prophetical office still. So Moses when he may not in Egypt, will be doing justice in Midian: in Egypt he delivered the oppressed Israelite, in Midian the wronged daughters of Jethro. I had rather be sick in my bed than idle, saith Seneca. And they also prophesied.] They put off their military clothes, and acted the prophets in habit and gesture, forgetting the business they came about. Disce hic quantum valeat bonorum societas, saith A. Lapide. See here the efficacy of good company: surely as the loadstone draweth iron, so spiritual exercises are able to affect the hearts and affections of others.

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:20

(20) The company of the prophets.—(On the general question of this company of prophets see Excursus H, at the end of this Book.) The Hebrew word rendered “company” occurs only in this place, but the ancient versions agree in rendering it “company,” or “assembly.” The Chaldee paraphrases here “they saw the company of the scribes praising, and Samuel standing over them teaching.” And they also prophesied.—Like so much that happened among the chosen people during their eventful trial period, the circumstance here related does not belong to ordinary natural experience. The words which immediately precede suggest the only possible explanation of the strange occurrence: “The Spirit of God was upon these messengers of Saul.” Ewald thus graphically paraphrases the Biblical record of this scene:—“It is related of those who started with the most hostile intentions against the prophets and their pupils, that as they approached they suddenly stood still, spell-bound by the music and solemn dance of the devotees; then, more and more powerfully drawn by the same Spirit into the charmed circle, they broke forth into similar words and gestures; and then, flinging away their upper garments, they joined in the dance and the music, and sinking down into ecstatic quivering, utterly forgot the hostile spirit in which they had come. . . . The same thing befell fresh messengers a second, nay, a third time. Then Saul himself, enraged, rushed to Ramah, . . . and as he looked down from the hill upon the school, and heard the loud pealing songs rising from it, he was seized by the Divine Spirit; and when he at last reached the spot he sank into the same condition of enthusiasm still more deeply than all the messengers whom he had previously despatched.”

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:20

Verse 20. The company of the prophets prophesying] Employed in religious exercises. Samuel - appointed over them] Being head or president of the school at this place. The Spirit of God was upon the messengers] They partook of the same influence, and joined in the same exercise; and thus were prevented from seizing David.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 19:20

20. prophets prophesying] Some common religious exercise conducted by Samuel, who is described as standing as president over the prophets, is meant by “prophesying.” See on 1 Samuel 10:5. The Targum paraphrases: “They saw the company of scribes praising, and Samuel standing as instructor over them.”

Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 19:20

Samuel standing as appointed - Rather, “as Overseer, or leader.”

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:20

20. The company of the prophets prophesying — See note on 1 Samuel 10:5. Samuel standing as appointed over them — Or, standing chief over them. He was their president and leader.

Sermons on 1 Samuel 19:20

	Sermon	Description
	Gods Love by Corrie Ten Boom	In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of being introduced in Alaska and compares it to the power of the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the importance of not standing in the
	(Belarus) Crisis Praying by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the preacher shares his personal journey of being consumed by television and worldly entertainment. He describes how God convicted him to get rid of his TV and spen
	(Revival) Part 1 - Phenomena by Martyn-Lloyd Jones	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the purpose and object of the Holy Spirit's work in the world. He emphasizes that the Holy Spirit's work is meant to draw attention to God an
	The Fire of God by Duncan Campbell	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a remarkable move of God in a village in Persia called West Ben Haar. The village experienced a great stir and many people professed faith i
	The Burdens of Ravenhill - Part 6 (Compilation) by Leonard Ravenhill	Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the urgent need for the church to return to its roots of genuine faith and reliance on the Holy Spirit, warning against the complacency and permissiven
	(First Baptist Church) #1 - What Revival Is by J. Edwin Orr	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of revival and the role of believers in evangelism and teaching. He emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is the author of revival an
	Is This That? by Vance Havner	In this sermon, Dr. Crouch addresses the state of the church and its lack of spiritual concern for the world. He compares the average church membership to a malfunctioning electric