1 Samuel 9

2 higher than any of the people. Suitable to the wishes of the people who, however, had to learn how incorrect were their notions of kingly qualities. Saul was a man “after the people’s own heart.”

4. Shalim. Shaalim, a name quite different from Shalem or Salem.

6 this city. That is, Ramah, where Samuel resided (ver. 5; i. 1).

7 a present. Presents are considered essential to civil and friendly intercourse in the East, particularly when an inferior approaches a superior. Articles of food are the most usual presents from the rural population: see xvi. 20. Money, however, even in small sums, is perfectly suitable. Saul, having no provision left, determined to offer Samuel a small coin, worth about 9d.

10 in the high place. Heights were the natural altars of the ancient world; and during the unsettled times of the Judges, especially after the sanctuary at Shiloh was destroyed, the worship of the people would be offered at the most accessible place. The centralisation of this worship enjoined in the law (Deut. xii. 11-14) was brought about gradually.

17. This verse follows ver. 14, vers. 15, 16 being parenthetic.

20 on whom is all the desire of Israel? Or, “For whom is all that is desirable in Israel? is it not for thee and for,” etc. (R.V.). For the word ep. Hag. ii. 7.

24 the shoulder. Or, “the thigh” (R.V.).

that which is left. Rather, “reserved,” as commanded, ver. 23.

25 upon the top of the house. On the flat roof.