1 Samuel 28:20
1 Samuel 28:20 in Multiple Translations
Immediately Saul fell flat on the ground, terrified by the words of Samuel. And his strength was gone, because he had not eaten anything all that day and night.
Then Saul fell straightway all along on the earth, and was sore afraid, because of the words of Samuel: and there was no strength in him; for he had eaten no bread all the day, nor all the night.
Then Saul fell straightway his full length upon the earth, and was sore afraid, because of the words of Samuel: and there was no strength in him; for he had eaten no bread all the day, nor all the night.
Then Saul went down flat on the earth, and was full of fear because of Samuel's words: and there was no strength in him, for he had taken no food all that day or all that night.
Saul collapsed facedown on the ground, terrified at what Samuel had said. He had no strength, because he hadn't eaten anything all that day and night.
Then Saul fell streight way all along on the earth, and was sore afraide because of the wordes of Samuel, so that there was no strength in him: for he had eaten no bread all the day nor all the night.
And Saul hasteth and falleth — the fulness of his stature — to the earth, and feareth greatly because of the words of Samuel; also power was not in him, for he had not eaten bread all the day, and all the night.
Then Saul fell immediately his full length on the earth, and was terrified, because of Samuel’s words. There was no strength in him, for he had eaten no bread all day long or all night long.
Then Saul fell immediately all along on the earth, and was exceedingly afraid, because of the words of Samuel: and there was no strength in him; for he had eaten no bread all the day, nor all the night.
And forthwith Saul fell all along on the ground, for he was frightened with the words of Samuel, and there was no strength in him, for he had eaten no bread all that day.
Saul immediately fell flat on the ground. He was so afraid because of what Samuel had said that he became paralyzed. He was also very weak because he had not eaten anything all that day and night.
You see, from early that day Saul didn’t eat any food, and he ate nothing all that night too. So he was weak. And as soon as he heard Samuel’s words, he got very frightened. He was so weak that he fell to the ground.
Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 28:20
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 28:20 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יְמַהֵ֣ר
שָׁא֗וּל
וַ/יִּפֹּ֤ל
מְלֹא
קֽוֹמָת/וֹ֙
אַ֔רְצָ/ה
וַ/יִּרָ֥א
מְאֹ֖ד
מִ/דִּבְרֵ֣י
שְׁמוּאֵ֑ל
גַּם
כֹּ֨חַ֙
לֹא
הָ֣יָה
ב֔/וֹ
כִּ֣י
לֹ֤א
אָכַל֙
לֶ֔חֶם
כָּל
הַ/יּ֖וֹם
וְ/כָל
הַ/לָּֽיְלָה
וַ/יְמַהֵ֣ר
mâhar
H4116
to hasten
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
שָׁא֗וּל
Shâʼûwl
H7586
Shaul
N-proper
וַ/יִּפֹּ֤ל
nâphal
H5307
to fall
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
מְלֹא
mᵉlôʼ
H4393
fullness
N-ms
קֽוֹמָת/וֹ֙
qôwmâh
H6967
height
N-fs | Suff
אַ֔רְצָ/ה
ʼerets
H776
land
N-cs | Suff
וַ/יִּרָ֥א
yârêʼ
H3372
to fear
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
מְאֹ֖ד
mᵉʼôd
H3966
much
Adv
מִ/דִּבְרֵ֣י
dâbâr
H1697
Chronicles
Prep | N-mp
שְׁמוּאֵ֑ל
Shᵉmûwʼêl
H8050
Shemuel
N-proper
גַּם
gam
H1571
also
DirObjM
כֹּ֨חַ֙
kôach
H3581
reptile
N-ms
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
הָ֣יָה
hâyâh
H1961
to be
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
ב֔/וֹ
Prep | Suff
כִּ֣י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
לֹ֤א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
אָכַל֙
ʼâkal
H398
to eat
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
לֶ֔חֶם
lechem
H3899
food
N-cs
כָּל
kôl
H3605
all
N-ms
הַ/יּ֖וֹם
yôwm
H3117
day
Art | N-ms
וְ/כָל
kôl
H3605
all
Conj | N-ms
הַ/לָּֽיְלָה
layil
H3915
night
Art | N-ms
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 28:20
וַ/יְמַהֵ֣ר
mâhar
H4116
"to hasten"
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
This word means to hurry or do something quickly, like when someone is in a rush. It can also mean to buy something by paying a price. The Bible uses it in Genesis.
Definition: 1)(Qal) to hasten 1a) (Niphal) to be hurried, be anxious 1a) hasty, precipitate, impetuous 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to hasten, make haste 1b2) hasten (used as adverb with another verb) 1b3) to hasten, prepare quickly, do quickly, bring quickly
Usage: Occurs in 60 OT verses. KJV: be carried headlong, fearful, (cause to make, in, make) haste(-n, -ily), (be) hasty, (fetch, make ready) [idiom] quickly, rash, [idiom] shortly, (be so) [idiom] soon, make speed, [idiom] speedily, [idiom] straightway, [idiom] suddenly, swift. See also: Genesis 18:6; 1 Samuel 28:24; Psalms 16:4.
שָׁא֗וּל
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.
וַ/יִּפֹּ֤ל
nâphal
H5307
"to fall"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to fall, and it's used in many ways, like falling down, failing, or being defeated. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah. God's people often fell away from Him, but He always offered a way back.
Definition: : fall/drop/fail 1) to fall, lie, be cast down, fail 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to fall 1a2) to fall (of violent death) 1a3) to fall prostrate, prostrate oneself before 1a4) to fall upon, attack, desert, fall away to, go away to, fall into the hand of 1a5) to fall short, fail, fall out, turn out, result 1a6) to settle, waste away, be offered, be inferior to 1a7) to lie, lie prostrate 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to fall, fell, throw down, knock out, lay prostrate 1b2) to overthrow 1b3) to make the lot fall, assign by lot, apportion by lot 1b4) to let drop, cause to fail (fig.) 1b5) to cause to fall 1c) (Hithpael) 1c1) to throw or prostrate oneself, throw oneself upon 1c2) to lie prostrate, prostrate oneself 1d) (Pilel) to fall
Usage: Occurs in 403 OT verses. KJV: be accepted, cast (down, self, (lots), out), cease, die, divide (by lot), (let) fail, (cause to, let, make, ready to) fall (away, down, -en, -ing), fell(-ing), fugitive, have (inheritance), inferior, be judged (by mistake for H6419 (פָּלַל)), lay (along), (cause to) lie down, light (down), be ([idiom] hast) lost, lying, overthrow, overwhelm, perish, present(-ed, -ing), (make to) rot, slay, smite out, [idiom] surely, throw down. See also: Genesis 2:21; 1 Samuel 17:52; Esther 9:3.
מְלֹא
mᵉlôʼ
H4393
"fullness"
N-ms
Fullness means having everything that is needed, like a full container or a complete amount. It can also mean a large quantity, like a multitude of things.
Definition: 1) fulness, that which fills 1a) fulness, handful 1b) mass, multitude 1c) fulness, that which fills, entire contents 1d) full length, full line
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] all along, [idiom] all that is (there-) in, fill, ([idiom] that whereof...was) full, fulness, (hand-) full, multitude. See also: Genesis 48:19; Psalms 89:12; Psalms 24:1.
קֽוֹמָת/וֹ֙
qôwmâh
H6967
"height"
N-fs | Suff
Qomah refers to height or stature, describing how tall someone or something is, like the height of a person or a building in the book of Ezekiel.
Definition: 1) height 1a) height, stature 1b) height
Usage: Occurs in 43 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] along, height, high, stature, tall. See also: Genesis 6:15; 1 Kings 7:23; Isaiah 10:33.
אַ֔רְצָ/ה
ʼerets
H776
"land"
N-cs | Suff
The land or earth refers to the soil or ground, and can also mean a country, territory, or region. In the Bible, it is used to describe the earth and its inhabitants, and is often translated as 'land' or 'country'.
Definition: : soil 1) land, earth 1a) earth 1a1) whole earth (as opposed to a part) 1a2) earth (as opposed to heaven) 1a3) earth (inhabitants) 1b) land 1b1) country, territory 1b2) district, region 1b3) tribal territory 1b4) piece of ground 1b5) land of Canaan, Israel 1b6) inhabitants of land 1b7) Sheol, land without return, (under) world 1b8) city (-state) 1c) ground, surface of the earth 1c1) ground 1c2) soil 1d) (in phrases) 1d1) people of the land 1d2) space or distance of country (in measurements of distance) 1d3) level or plain country 1d4) land of the living 1d5) end(s) of the earth 1e) (almost wholly late in usage) 1e1) lands, countries 1e1a) often in contrast to Canaan
Usage: Occurs in 2190 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] common, country, earth, field, ground, land, [idiom] natins, way, [phrase] wilderness, world. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 18:18; Genesis 42:13.
וַ/יִּרָ֥א
yârêʼ
H3372
"to fear"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to fear or revere, and is used to describe being afraid or standing in awe of something, like God's power. It appears in the Bible to convey a sense of respect or reverence. In the KJV, it's translated as 'affright' or 'reverence'.
Definition: : frightening(DANGER) 1) to fear, revere, be afraid 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to fear, be afraid 1a2) to stand in awe of, be awed 1a3) to fear, reverence, honour, respect 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be fearful, be dreadful, be feared 1b2) to cause astonishment and awe, be held in awe 1b3) to inspire reverence or godly fear or awe 1c) (Piel) to make afraid, terrify 2) (TWOT) to shoot, pour
Usage: Occurs in 318 OT verses. KJV: affright, be (make) afraid, dread(-ful), (put in) fear(-ful, -fully, -ing), (be had in) reverence(-end), [idiom] see, terrible (act, -ness, thing). See also: Genesis 3:10; 1 Samuel 12:18; Psalms 3:7.
מְאֹ֖ד
mᵉʼôd
H3966
"much"
Adv
Meod means 'much' or 'very' and is used to emphasize something. It can mean 'exceedingly' or 'greatly' and is often used to show strong feelings or actions.
Definition: adv 1) exceedingly, much subst 2) might, force, abundance n m 3) muchness, force, abundance, exceedingly 3a) force, might 3b) exceedingly, greatly, very (idioms showing magnitude or degree) 3b1) exceedingly 3b2) up to abundance, to a great degree, exceedingly 3b3) with muchness, muchness
Usage: Occurs in 278 OT verses. KJV: diligently, especially, exceeding(-ly), far, fast, good, great(-ly), [idiom] louder and louder, might(-ily, -y), (so) much, quickly, (so) sore, utterly, very ([phrase] much, sore), well. See also: Genesis 1:31; 1 Samuel 11:6; Psalms 6:4.
מִ/דִּבְרֵ֣י
dâbâr
H1697
"Chronicles"
Prep | N-mp
A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.
Definition: This name means word, speaking
Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.
שְׁמוּאֵ֑ל
Shᵉmûwʼêl
H8050
"Shemuel"
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.
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.
כֹּ֨חַ֙
kôach
H3581
"reptile"
N-ms
Koach means strength or power, referring to human, angelic, or God's might. It can also describe the strength of animals or the produce of soil.
Definition: 1) a small reptile, probably a kind of lizard, which is unclean 1a) perhaps an extinct animal, exact meaning is unknown
Usage: Occurs in 121 OT verses. KJV: ability, able, chameleon, force, fruits, might, power(-ful), strength, substance, wealth. See also: Genesis 4:12; Job 36:5; Psalms 22:16.
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
הָ֣יָה
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
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.
ב֔/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
כִּ֣י
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
לֹ֤א
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
אָכַל֙
ʼâkal
H398
"to eat"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
This word means to eat or devour, and it's used in many stories, including when Jesus fed the 5000 with fish and bread in the book of Matthew. It's about taking in nourishment and being satisfied.
Definition: 1) to eat, devour, burn up, feed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to eat (human subject) 1a2) to eat, devour (of beasts and birds) 1a3) to devour, consume (of fire) 1a4) to devour, slay (of sword) 1a5) to devour, consume, destroy (inanimate subjects - ie, pestilence, drought) 1a6) to devour (of oppression) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be eaten (by men) 1b2) to be devoured, consumed (of fire) 1b3) to be wasted, destroyed (of flesh) 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to cause to eat, feed with 1c2) to cause to devour 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to feed 1d2) to cause to eat 1e) (Piel) 1e1) consume Aramaic equivalent: a.khal (אֲכַל "to devour" H0399)
Usage: Occurs in 703 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, burn up, consume, devour(-er, up), dine, eat(-er, up), feed (with), food, [idiom] freely, [idiom] in...wise(-deed, plenty), (lay) meat, [idiom] quite. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 6:9; Numbers 24:8.
לֶ֔חֶם
lechem
H3899
"food"
N-cs
This Hebrew word refers to food, especially bread or grain. It's used throughout the Bible to describe meals, sacrifices, and daily life, highlighting the importance of food in ancient Israelite culture.
Definition: : food(eating) 1) bread, food, grain 1a) bread 1a1) bread 1a2) bread-corn 1b) food (in general)
Usage: Occurs in 277 OT verses. KJV: (shew-) bread, [idiom] eat, food, fruit, loaf, meat, victuals. See also: Genesis 3:19; 1 Samuel 20:34; Psalms 14:4.
כָּל
kôl
H3605
"all"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
הַ/יּ֖וֹם
yôwm
H3117
"day"
Art | N-ms
The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow
Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.
וְ/כָל
kôl
H3605
"all"
Conj | N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
הַ/לָּֽיְלָה
layil
H3915
"night"
Art | N-ms
Night refers to the time of darkness, opposed to day, and can also symbolize adversity or hardship. It is a period of rest, but also of potential danger or uncertainty.
Definition: 1) night 1a) night (as opposed to day) 1b) of gloom, protective shadow (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 223 OT verses. KJV: (mid-)night (season). See also: Genesis 1:5; 2 Samuel 17:16; Psalms 1:2.
Study Notes — 1 Samuel 28:20
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 1 Samuel 28:20 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 28:20
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 28:20
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 28:20
- Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 28:20
- Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 28:20
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 28:20
- Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 28:20
- Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 28:20
- Sermons on 1 Samuel 28:20
Context — Saul and the Medium of Endor
18Because you did not obey the LORD or carry out His burning anger against Amalek, the LORD has done this to you today.
19Moreover, the LORD will deliver Israel with you into the hand of the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. And the LORD will deliver the army of Israel into the hand of the Philistines.”
20Immediately Saul fell flat on the ground, terrified by the words of Samuel. And his strength was gone, because he had not eaten anything all that day and night.
21When the woman came to Saul and saw how distraught he was, she said to him, “Look, your maidservant has obeyed your voice. I took my life in my hands and did as you told me. 22Now please listen to your servant and let me set a morsel of bread before you so you may eat and have the strength to go on your way.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Samuel 28:5 | When Saul saw the Philistine army, he was afraid and trembled violently. |
| 2 | Job 26:2 | “How you have helped the powerless and saved the arm that is feeble! |
| 3 | Job 15:20–24 | A wicked man writhes in pain all his days; only a few years are reserved for the ruthless. Sounds of terror fill his ears; in his prosperity the destroyer attacks him. He despairs of his return from darkness; he is marked for the sword. He wanders about as food for vultures; he knows the day of darkness is at hand. Distress and anguish terrify him, overwhelming him like a king poised to attack. |
| 4 | Psalms 50:21–22 | You have done these things, and I kept silent; you thought I was just like you. But now I rebuke you and accuse you to your face. Now consider this, you who forget God, lest I tear you to pieces, with no one to rescue you: |
| 5 | 1 Samuel 25:37 | In the morning when Nabal was sober, his wife told him about these events, and his heart failed within him and he became like a stone. |
1 Samuel 28:20 Summary
This verse shows how Saul, the king of Israel, was overcome with fear and weakness after hearing the words of Samuel, who spoke on behalf of the Lord. Saul's physical weakness due to not eating for a day and night made him more vulnerable to fear and despair, highlighting the importance of taking care of our physical needs, as seen in Matthew 4:4. The Lord's judgment against Saul, as revealed in 1 Samuel 28:18-19, also reminds us of the importance of obeying God's commands and heeding His warnings, lest we face similar judgment, as seen in Proverbs 29:1 and Isaiah 66:4. By prioritizing our spiritual and physical well-being, and remaining humble and responsive to the Lord's voice, we can avoid the kind of weakness that Saul experienced and stay strong in our faith.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Saul fall to the ground in terror after hearing Samuel's words?
Saul was terrified because Samuel's words revealed the Lord's judgment against him, which would result in his downfall and the defeat of Israel, as seen in 1 Samuel 28:18-19. This fear was a result of Saul's disobedience to the Lord's commands, similar to the fear experienced by Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:10 after they disobeyed God.
What role did physical weakness play in Saul's emotional state?
Saul's physical weakness due to not eating for a day and night contributed to his emotional state, making him more susceptible to fear and despair, as stated in 1 Samuel 28:20. This highlights the importance of taking care of our physical needs, as seen in Matthew 4:4, where Jesus quotes Deuteronomy 8:3, emphasizing that man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.
How does this verse relate to the concept of spiritual strength and weakness?
This verse illustrates how spiritual and physical weaknesses can be interconnected, as seen in the life of Elijah, who, after a great spiritual victory, became physically and emotionally exhausted, and had to be strengthened by an angel in 1 Kings 19:5-8. This reminds us of the importance of prioritizing our spiritual and physical well-being, as encouraged in Psalm 119:28, where the psalmist asks God to strengthen him according to His word.
What can we learn from Saul's reaction to Samuel's words?
Saul's reaction serves as a warning to us, emphasizing the importance of heeding God's warnings and obeying His commands, lest we face similar judgment, as seen in Proverbs 29:1 and Isaiah 66:4. This reminds us to remain humble and responsive to the Lord's voice, as encouraged in Psalm 95:7-8 and Hebrews 3:7-8.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I am trying to navigate without seeking the Lord's guidance, and how can I apply the lesson from Saul's experience to these situations?
- How do I respond when faced with news that is difficult to hear, and what can I learn from Saul's reaction in this verse?
- In what ways can I prioritize my physical and spiritual well-being to avoid the kind of weakness that Saul experienced, and how can I use this verse as a reminder to care for my whole person?
- What are some spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, fasting, or meditation on Scripture, that can help me stay strong and resilient in the face of challenges, as seen in the lives of biblical characters like Daniel and Jesus?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 28:20
Then Saul fell straightway all along on the earth,.... Fell at his full length at once, as if he had been thunderstruck, or pierced through with a dart or sword: and was sore afraid, because of the
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 28:20
Then Saul fell straightway all along on the earth, and was sore afraid, because of the words of Samuel: and there was no strength in him; for he had eaten no bread all the day, nor all the night.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 28:20
Saul fell along on the earth, being quite dispirited with these sad and surprising tidings, and so unable to stand.
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 28:20
1 Samuel 28:20 Then Saul fell straightway all along on the earth, and was sore afraid, because of the words of Samuel: and there was no strength in him; for he had eaten no bread all the day, nor all the night.Ver. 20. Then Saul fell straightway all along.] Like an ox, totus totus, quantus quantus; Heb., In the fulness of his stature: and this he made haste to do. Let such as run to witches look for no more comfort in distress: or else to any other like sinister practice. Clement V, Pope, sent to a wizard to know how it fared with a nephew of his, who had been his catamite, now that he was dead. The wizard assured the messenger that he had seen him in hell torments. The Pope was so troubled and terrified hereat, that he never looked up again, but died soon after. Cicero made lamentable moan in his misery, crying out, O me nunquam sapientem! &c. O meam cadamitosam et praecipitem senectutem! O turpem exacta dementique aetate canitiem! For he had eaten no bread.] Haply, saith Martyr, because such as came to inquire of witches were to come fasting; as God will be sought to by fasting and prayer.
Corruit ut erat erectus et stabat. - Vat. Jacob. Rev., in Vit. Pontif. Epist. ad Octav.
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 28:20
(20) Then Saul fell straightway all along on the earth.—Up to this period we must understand Saul listening to the prophet’s words in that attitude of humble reverence which he assumed when he perceived that he was in the presence of Samuel (1 Samuel 28:14); but now, on hearing the words of awful judgment, crushed with terror and dismay, and previously weakened by a long fast and the fatigue of the rough night walk from Mount Gilboa to En-dor, he fell prostrate to the earth.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 28:20
Verse 20. Then Saul fell straightway all along on the earth.] Literally, he fell with his own length, or with the fullness of his stature. He was so overwhelmed with this most dreadful message, that he swooned away, and thus fell at his own length upon the ground. The woman, being terrified, had probably withdrawn to some distance at the first appearance of the prophet; and Saul was left alone with Samuel. After some short time, the woman came again unto Saul, found him sore troubled, and offered him those succours which humanity dictated.
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 28:20
20–25. Saul entertained by the woman 20. all along] His full length, lit. “the fulness of his stature.” Terror of mind and exhaustion of body left him powerless.
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 28:20
20. Fell straightway all along — See margin. He was completely overwhelmed with fear. Because of the words of Samuel — He believed that the words he had heard were the words of the holy Samuel.
Sermons on 1 Samuel 28:20
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Spiritual and Carnal Weapons. by Horatius Bonar | Horatius Bonar explores the tragic narrative of King Saul's despair when faced with the Philistine army, emphasizing God's silence in response to Saul's inquiries. Saul's fear lead |
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False Conclusions by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the patience of God and how it relates to the presence of evil in the world. He references Ecclesiastes 8:11, where Solomon declares that bec |
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Anarchy in Worship or Recent Innovation Contrasted W/ Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (1875) by James Begg | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the objection to symbolism in worship. He refers to Deuteronomy 4, where it is stated that God spoke to the people without any similitude or |
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The Sinners Mistakes Exposed and Reproved. by Edward Payson | Edward Payson preaches about the ancient doctrine of a judgment to come, emphasizing that God, though silent in the present life, carefully records the sins of impenitent sinners f |
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Misrepresenting God by Samuel Logan Brengle | Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the importance of accurately representing God's character, warning against the extremes of portraying God solely as merciful or as cruel. He argues |
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Men Naturally Are God’s Enemies by Jonathan Edwards | Jonathan Edwards preaches about the natural enmity of men towards God, emphasizing that all natural men are God's enemies due to their low esteem, aversion, and opposition to God i |
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God Regains His Fear Through Judgments by John Franklin | John Franklin delves into the importance of regaining the fear of God as the antidote to the moral decline plaguing our nation and Christians, emphasizing that the loss of fear of |