1 Samuel 10:23
1 Samuel 10:23 in Multiple Translations
So they ran and brought Saul, and when he stood among the people, he was a head taller than any of the others.
And they ran and fetched him thence: and when he stood among the people, he was higher than any of the people from his shoulders and upward.
And they ran and fetched him thence; and when he stood among the people, he was higher than any of the people from his shoulders and upward.
So they went quickly and made him come out; and when he took his place among the people, he was taller by a head than any of the people.
They ran and brought Saul over. When he stood among the people, he was head and shoulders taller than anyone else.
And they ranne, and brought him thence: and when he stoode among the people, he was hier then any of the people from the shoulders vpwarde.
And they run and bring him thence, and he stationed himself in the midst of the people, and he is higher than any of the people from his shoulder and upward.
They ran and got him there. When he stood among the people, he was higher than any of the people from his shoulders and upward.
And they ran and brought him thence: and when he stood among the people, he was higher than any of the people from his shoulders and upward.
And they ran and fetched him thence: and he stood in the midst of the people, and he was higher than any of the people from the shoulders and upward.
So they quickly went there and found him, and brought him in front of all the people. They could see that truly he was a head taller than anyone else.
Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 10:23
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 10:23 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יָּרֻ֨צוּ֙
וַ/יִּקָּחֻ֣/הוּ
מִ/שָּׁ֔ם
וַ/יִּתְיַצֵּ֖ב
בְּ/ת֣וֹךְ
הָ/עָ֑ם
וַ/יִּגְבַּהּ֙
מִ/כָּל
הָ/עָ֔ם
מִ/שִּׁכְמ֖/וֹ
וָ/מָֽעְלָ/ה
וַ/יָּרֻ֨צוּ֙
rûwts
H7323
to run
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
וַ/יִּקָּחֻ֣/הוּ
lâqach
H3947
to take
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp | Suff
מִ/שָּׁ֔ם
shâm
H8033
there
Prep | Adv
וַ/יִּתְיַצֵּ֖ב
yâtsab
H3320
to stand
Conj | V-Hithpael-ConsecImperf-3ms
בְּ/ת֣וֹךְ
tâvek
H8432
midst
Prep | N-ms
הָ/עָ֑ם
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Art | N-ms
וַ/יִּגְבַּהּ֙
gâbahh
H1361
to exult
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
מִ/כָּל
kôl
H3605
all
Prep | N-ms
הָ/עָ֔ם
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Art | N-ms
מִ/שִּׁכְמ֖/וֹ
shᵉkem
H7926
shoulder
Prep | N-ms | Suff
וָ/מָֽעְלָ/ה
maʻal
H4605
above
Conj | Adv | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 10:23
וַ/יָּרֻ֨צוּ֙
rûwts
H7323
"to run"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
To run or rush, often used to describe someone moving quickly, as seen in the story of the runners in Jeremiah 51:31. This verb appears in various forms, including running swiftly or darting. It is used to convey a sense of urgency or haste.
Definition: : run/runner/messenger 1) to run 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to run 1a2) runners (participle as subst) 1b) (Polel) to run swiftly, dart 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to bring or move quickly, hurry 1c2) to drive away from, cause to run away
Usage: Occurs in 92 OT verses. KJV: break down, divide speedily, footman, guard, bring hastily, (make) run (away, through), post. See also: Genesis 18:2; 2 Kings 11:6; Psalms 18:30.
וַ/יִּקָּחֻ֣/הוּ
lâqach
H3947
"to take"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp | Suff
This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.
Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)
Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.
מִ/שָּׁ֔ם
shâm
H8033
"there"
Prep | Adv
The Hebrew word sham means there or then, often used to describe a location or point in time. It can also mean thither or thence, indicating movement or direction. This word is used frequently in the Bible to provide context and clarify the setting of a story.
Definition: 1) there, thither 1a) there 1b) thither (after verbs of motion) 1c) from there, thence 1d) then (as an adverb of time) Aramaic equivalent: tam.mah (תַּמָּה "there" H8536)
Usage: Occurs in 732 OT verses. KJV: in it, [phrase] thence, there (-in, [phrase] of, [phrase] out), [phrase] thither, [phrase] whither. See also: Genesis 2:8; Exodus 21:33; Deuteronomy 19:4.
וַ/יִּתְיַצֵּ֖ב
yâtsab
H3320
"to stand"
Conj | V-Hithpael-ConsecImperf-3ms
To stand or place something firmly is what this word means, and it's used in the Bible to describe presenting oneself or standing firm in faith, as seen in the book of Psalms.
Definition: 1) to place, set, stand, set or station oneself, present oneself 1a) (Hithpael) to station oneself, take one's stand, stand, present oneself, stand with someone Aramaic equivalent: ye.tsav (יְצַב "to know" H3321)
Usage: Occurs in 45 OT verses. KJV: present selves, remaining, resort, set (selves), (be able to, can, with-) stand (fast, forth, -ing, still, up). See also: Exodus 2:4; 1 Samuel 17:16; Psalms 2:2.
בְּ/ת֣וֹךְ
tâvek
H8432
"midst"
Prep | N-ms
This word refers to the middle or center of something, such as a group of people or a physical space. It can also mean among or between things, as seen in various Bible translations.
Definition: 1) midst, middle 1a) midst, middle 1b) into, through (after verbs of motion) 1c) among (of a number of persons) 1d) between (of things arranged by twos) 1e) from among (as to take or separate etc)
Usage: Occurs in 390 OT verses. KJV: among(-st), [idiom] between, half, [idiom] (there-, where-), in(-to), middle, mid(-night), midst (among), [idiom] out (of), [idiom] through, [idiom] with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:6; Numbers 35:5; 2 Chronicles 32:4.
הָ/עָ֑ם
ʻam
H5971
"Amaw"
Art | N-ms
A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.
Definition: This name means nation, people
Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.
וַ/יִּגְבַּהּ֙
gâbahh
H1361
"to exult"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To exult means to feel proud or haughty, like being lofty or high, as described in Psalms where God's ways are lofty and good.
Definition: 1) to be high, be exalted 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be high, lofty, tall 1a2) to be exalted 1a3) to be lofty 1a3a) to be lofty (of Jehovah's ways-good sense) 1a3b) to be haughty, be arrogant (bad sense) 1b) (Hiphil) to make high, exalt
Usage: Occurs in 33 OT verses. KJV: exalt, be haughty, be (make) high(-er), lift up, mount up, be proud, raise up great height, upward. See also: 1 Samuel 10:23; Isaiah 7:11; Psalms 103:11.
מִ/כָּל
kôl
H3605
"all"
Prep | 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.
הָ/עָ֔ם
ʻam
H5971
"Amaw"
Art | N-ms
A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.
Definition: This name means nation, people
Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.
מִ/שִּׁכְמ֖/וֹ
shᵉkem
H7926
"shoulder"
Prep | N-ms | Suff
This word refers to the shoulder or back, often symbolizing burdens. It is used in Exodus to describe carrying loads and in Genesis to describe the shoulder of a hill.
Definition: 1) shoulder, back 1a) shoulder, shoulder-blade 1b) back (in general) Also means: shikh.mah (שִׁכְמָה "shoulder" H7929)
Usage: Occurs in 21 OT verses. KJV: back, [idiom] consent, portion, shoulder. See also: Genesis 9:23; 1 Samuel 10:9; Psalms 21:13.
וָ/מָֽעְלָ/ה
maʻal
H4605
"above"
Conj | Adv | Suff
Means above or higher, used to describe something's location or position. In the Bible, it appears in passages like Genesis 1:7, where God separates the waters above from the waters below. This word helps us understand God's creation.
Definition: subst 1) higher part, upper part adv 1a) above prep 1b) on the top of, above, on higher ground than with locative 1c) upwards, higher, above
Usage: Occurs in 134 OT verses. KJV: above, exceeding(-ly), forward, on ([idiom] very) high, over, up(-on, -ward), very. See also: Genesis 6:16; 1 Samuel 30:25; Psalms 74:5.
Study Notes — 1 Samuel 10:23
Show Verse Quote Highlights
Context — Saul Proclaimed King
21Then he had the tribe of Benjamin come forward by its clans, and the clan of Matri was selected. Finally, Saul son of Kish was selected. But when they looked for him, they could not find him.
22So again they inquired of the LORD, “Has the man come here yet?” And the LORD replied, “Behold, he has hidden himself among the baggage.”
23So they ran and brought Saul, and when he stood among the people, he was a head taller than any of the others.
24Samuel said to all the people, “Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people.” And all the people shouted, “Long live the king!” 25Then Samuel explained to the people the rights of kingship. He wrote them on a scroll and laid it up before the LORD. And Samuel sent all the people away, each to his own home.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Samuel 9:2 | And he had a son named Saul, choice and handsome, without equal among the Israelites—a head taller than any of the people. |
| 2 | 1 Samuel 16:7 | But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him; the LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.” |
| 3 | 1 Samuel 17:4 | Then a champion named Goliath, who was from Gath, came out from the Philistine camp. He was six cubits and a span in height, |
1 Samuel 10:23 Summary
In 1 Samuel 10:23, Saul is brought before the people, and his physical stature stands out, symbolizing his new role as leader. This event shows how God can use anyone, regardless of their background or fears, to accomplish His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:26-31). As we reflect on this verse, we can remember that our value and worth come from God, not from our physical appearance or abilities (Psalm 139:13-16, 1 Samuel 16:7). By trusting in God's sovereignty and plan, we can, like Saul, be open to new opportunities and challenges, and serve others with humility and faith.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Saul hide among the baggage in 1 Samuel 10:22, and how does this relate to 1 Samuel 10:23?
Saul hid among the baggage likely due to humility or fear, but in 1 Samuel 10:23, he is brought forth and stands out physically, symbolizing his new role as leader, as seen in the way he towers over the others, much like how Jesus Christ stands out as our ultimate leader and King (1 Timothy 6:15, Revelation 19:16).
What is the significance of Saul's height in 1 Samuel 10:23?
Saul's height, being a head taller than any of the others, signifies his unique position and role as the first king of Israel, much like how Moses was chosen by God for his role (Exodus 3:10-12, Deuteronomy 18:15).
How does this event in 1 Samuel 10:23 relate to the concept of God's sovereignty?
This event demonstrates God's sovereignty, as He has chosen Saul to be the king, despite Saul's initial hesitation, highlighting God's ability to work through human weakness, as seen in other biblical accounts such as Genesis 37:5-11 and Romans 8:28-30.
What can we learn from the way the people responded to Saul in 1 Samuel 10:24, in relation to 1 Samuel 10:23?
The people's response, shouting 'Long live the king!', shows their acceptance of Saul as their leader, which is facilitated by the physical presence and stature of Saul as described in 1 Samuel 10:23, demonstrating the importance of human leadership and obedience to authority, as taught in Romans 13:1-7 and Hebrews 13:17.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can apply the concept of humility, as possibly demonstrated by Saul's actions, to my own life and relationship with God?
- How can I, like Saul, be open to God's calling and leading in my life, even if it means stepping out of my comfort zone?
- What are some areas in my life where I need to trust in God's sovereignty, just as the Israelites did when they accepted Saul as their king?
- In what ways can I, as a follower of Jesus Christ, demonstrate leadership and serve others, just as Saul was called to serve the people of Israel?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 10:23
And they ran and fetched him thence,.... Being in haste to see their king elect, and proclaim him: and when he stood among the people; being brought among them, and presented to them: he was higher
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 10:23
And said unto the children of Israel, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I brought up Israel out of Egypt, and delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of all kingdoms, and
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 10:23
1 Samuel 10:23 And they ran and fetched him thence: and when he stood among the people, he was higher than any of the people from his shoulders and upward.Ver. 23. And they ran and fetched him thence.] Thus honour followeth them that fly it, flieth from them that follow it; as they say of the crocodile. It hath been already noted of Claudius, that he was pulled out of a hole by the heels, and made emperor. He was higher than any of the people by the shoulders.] This did further edge the people’ s affections, as hoping that he would be as eminent above others in virtue, as he was in stature. Virgil commendeth his Aeneas and Turnus from their tallness: and Pliny his Trajan, that he was not carried on men’ s shoulders as some proud emperors had been, but was taller than others by the head and shoulders. Eξοχοςανθρωπωνκεφαληνκαιευρεαςωμους. Cunctis altior ibat. - Aeneid., lib. viii. Toto vertice supra est ("de Turno") , lib. vii. Plin., in Paneg.
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 10:23
17–27. The Public election of Saul as King The thread of the narrative in ch. 8, which has been temporarily dropped in order to give an account of the circumstances by which Samuel was privately made acquainted with the man whom Jehovah had chosen to rule his people, is now resumed, and Saul’s public election by lot to the regal office described. Since the revelation to Samuel and the choice by lot were equally declarations of Jehovah’s will, there could be no contradiction between them: the latter publicly confirmed the former for the satisfaction of the people.
Sermons on 1 Samuel 10:23
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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A Leaders Worst Nightmare by Alan Stewart | Alan Stewart delivers a powerful sermon titled 'A Leader's Worst Nightmare,' reflecting on the life of King Saul as a cautionary tale for leaders in ministry. He emphasizes the imp |
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I Samuel 26:21 by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith explores the life of Saul, emphasizing how despite his physical advantages and opportunities to lead God's people, he ultimately played the fool by failing to submit fu |
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"a.w. Tozer on Judgment" by Leonard Ravenhill | This sermon delves into the importance of examining our motives behind our actions, emphasizing that we will be judged not just for what we have done but for the reasons and motive |
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A Touch From God - Part 1 by David Wilkerson | This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God wholeheartedly, especially in times of turmoil and fear. It highlights the need for individuals to hunger for more of God's pre |
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A Heart After God Is Better Than Skils by K P Yohannan by K.P. Yohannan | This sermon shares a powerful testimony from Tripura, India, where the love of Christ transformed warring tribes into brothers and sisters, uniting them in faith. It highlights the |
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Dependence Upon the Lord by K.P. Yohannan | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the destruction of a printing press and the loss of valuable materials. He emphasizes the importance of humility and exalting God in all asp |
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Sin Crouching at the Door by Richard Owen Roberts | This sermon delves into the urgent need to address the issue of sin as a barrier to revival, emphasizing the importance of mastering sin through Christ. It explores the story of Ca |