1 Samuel 9:11

And as they were climbing the hill to the city, they met some young women coming out to draw water and asked, "Is the seer here?"

Study Bible

And as they were climbing the hill to the city
This phrase sets the scene for Saul and his servant's journey to find the seer, Samuel. The ascent to the city suggests a location of significance, often associated with places of worship or governance in ancient Israel. Cities were typically built on elevated ground for defense purposes. The act of climbing indicates effort and anticipation, reflecting the spiritual journey Saul is unknowingly undertaking towards his anointing as king.

they met some young women coming out to draw water
Drawing water was a daily task typically performed by women in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Wells were social gathering places, and meeting women at a well is a recurring biblical motif, seen in the stories of Rebekah (Genesis 24) and Rachel (Genesis 29). This encounter is providential, as it provides Saul with the necessary information to find Samuel. The presence of young women highlights the normalcy of the scene, yet it is a divinely orchestrated moment leading to significant events.

and asked, “Is the seer here?”
The term "seer" refers to a prophet, one who receives visions from God. At this time, the term was commonly used before "prophet" became more prevalent. Saul's inquiry shows his respect and recognition of the seer's role as a spiritual guide. This question marks the beginning of Saul's direct interaction with divine guidance, as Samuel, the seer, is about to reveal God's plan for him. The use of "seer" connects to the broader biblical theme of God providing guidance and revelation through chosen individuals.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The son of Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin, who is on a journey to find his father's lost donkeys. This journey leads to his anointing as the first king of Israel.

2. Servant
Accompanies Saul on his journey and suggests seeking the guidance of a seer, demonstrating faith and practicality.

3. Young Women
They are drawing water, a common task in ancient times, and provide directions to Saul and his servant, showing the role of women in daily life and divine encounters.

4. Seer (Samuel)
The prophet and judge of Israel, who is later revealed to be the one Saul is seeking. The term "seer" (Hebrew: "ro'eh") indicates one who sees visions or has insight from God.

5. City
The unnamed city where Samuel resides, representing a place of divine appointment and revelation.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointments
God orchestrates events and encounters in our lives for His purposes. We should be attentive to seemingly ordinary moments that may have divine significance.

Seeking Godly Counsel
Like Saul and his servant seeking the seer, we should seek guidance from those who are spiritually mature and have insight from God.

Role of Women
The young women play a crucial role in directing Saul. This highlights the importance of women in God's plans and the value of their contributions.

Faith in Action
The servant's suggestion to seek the seer demonstrates faith in action. We should be proactive in seeking God's will and direction in our lives.

Preparation for Leadership
Saul's journey is part of his preparation for leadership. God often uses ordinary circumstances to prepare us for future roles and responsibilities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the encounter with the young women at the well demonstrate God's providence in Saul's journey? Can you think of a time when a seemingly ordinary encounter had a significant impact on your life?

2. In what ways can we seek godly counsel in our own lives, and how can this be related to the advice given in Proverbs 3:5-6?

3. How does the role of the young women in this passage challenge or affirm your understanding of the role of women in biblical accounts and in the church today?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to take a step of faith, like Saul's servant. What was the outcome, and how did it shape your understanding of God's guidance?

5. How can we prepare ourselves for future roles and responsibilities that God may have for us, as seen in Saul's journey to kingship? Consider connections to other biblical figures who were prepared by God for leadership.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24
The encounter at the well with Rebekah, which also involves divine guidance and provision, parallels the meeting of Saul with the young women.

John 4
Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well, highlighting themes of divine appointment and revelation.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord for guidance, as Saul and his servant seek direction from the seer.