“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?”
Historical and Cultural Background:In the Old Testament, communicating with the dead was strictly forbidden under God’s law (Leviticus 19:31, Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Saul himself had expelled mediums and wizards from the land, complying with God’s command. However, when faced with imminent danger and the absence of divine guidance, Saul resorted to seeking answers from forbidden sources.
Saul’s Desperation:At this point in the narrative, Saul was about to go into battle against the Philistines but was terrified because God was no longer answering his inquiries. In desperation, he disguised himself and sought out the medium of En-dor to inquire of Samuel’s spirit. Samuel had died previously, and Saul hoped to receive counsel and reassurance from him.
The Medium’s Response:When the medium saw through Saul’s disguise, she expressed fear for her own life because Saul had previously eradicated such practitioners. However, she went on to ask why Saul was laying a snare for her life, potentially endangering her by seeking her services.
The Significance:This passage highlights several important themes. It illustrates Saul’s spiritual decline, as he disregarded God’s laws and sought answers through illegitimate means. Saul’s desperate actions demonstrate the consequences of turning away from God and seeking guidance from forbidden sources. It also emphasizes the reality of spiritual forces at work, both good and evil, and the importance of obedience to God’s commands.
Theological Application:The story of Saul and the medium of En-dor serves as a cautionary tale for believers. It reminds us of the dangers of seeking supernatural guidance outside of God’s ordained channels, such as consulting psychics, mediums, or engaging in occult practices. Instead, we are called to seek God’s guidance through prayer, studying His Word, and seeking counsel from godly sources.
In conclusion, 1 Samuel 28:9 showcases Saul’s desperation and disobedience to God’s commands as he seeks guidance from a medium. It serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God’s guidance and avoiding forbidden practices in our own lives.
