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Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 15 - Verse 35

15:35
And Samuel came no more to see Saul until the day of his death: nevertheless Samuel mourned for Saul: and the LORD repented that he had made Saul king over Israel.

Meaning

After Samuel's final encounter with Saul, he decided not to see him again until the day of his death. This decision did not mean that Samuel did not care for Saul anymore, as he continued to mourn for him even after their parting. The verse also mentions that the LORD repented that he had made Saul king over Israel. This shows a sense of regret or sorrow on the part of God for choosing Saul as the king of Israel. It serves as a reflection of the consequences of Saul's disobedience and the eventual downfall of his reign. This verse highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness in the eyes of God, as well as the consequences that follow when one strays from His path. It is a reminder of the significance of staying true to God's will and the repercussions that can occur when one deviates from it.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of 1 Samuel, the relationship between Samuel and Saul is highlighted. It is said that Samuel stopped visiting Saul until the day of his death, yet he continued to mourn for him. This could be interpreted as Samuel distancing himself from Saul due to the king's disobedience to God's commands, but still feeling sorrow for him as a fellow Israelite. Additionally, the verse mentions that the LORD repented for making Saul king over Israel. The concept of God repenting in this context does not imply that He made a mistake, but rather demonstrates God's sorrow or regret over Saul's actions and his ultimate downfall. This verse sheds light on the complexities of human relationships and the divine interactions depicted in the Bible, showcasing themes of loyalty, obedience, and consequences for one's actions.

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