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Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 28 - Verse 9

28:9
And the woman said unto him, Behold, thou knowest what Saul hath done, how he hath cut off those that have familiar spirits, and the wizards, out of the land: wherefore then layest thou a snare for my life, to cause me to die?

Meaning

In 1 Samuel 28:9, a woman is speaking to King Saul, who had previously banned all witches and sorcerers from the land of Israel. The woman is questioning Saul's motives for seeking her out, as he had previously persecuted those with familiar spirits and wizards. She is puzzled as to why he is now laying a trap for her life, seemingly contradicting his past actions. This verse sheds light on the desperation and fear that King Saul must have been experiencing, to go against his own laws and seek out a woman with spiritual powers. It also highlights the complex and often conflicting beliefs and practices surrounding magic and witchcraft in ancient times. The woman's question forces Saul to confront his own actions and decisions, as well as the consequences they may have on others.

Theological Overview

In this passage, the woman is questioning King Saul's intentions in seeking guidance from her, a medium. She mentions Saul's previous actions of cutting off those who practiced divination and communicated with familiar spirits, indicating that Saul himself had previously condemned such practices. The woman is perplexed as to why Saul would come to her for help if he had previously rid the land of such individuals. This verse highlights the tension between Saul's desire for guidance and his previous stance on these practices. The theological interpretation of this verse can be seen as a caution against seeking guidance from sources that are considered to be outside of God's will, as these actions can lead to confusion and spiritual danger. It also serves as a reminder that God's guidance should always be sought above all else.

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