Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 12 - Verse 4

When the Israelites approached Samuel to request a king to rule over them, Samuel defended his leadership by reminding them of his integrity. The verse "And they said, Thou hast not defrauded us, nor oppressed us, neither hast thou taken ought of any man's hand." reflects Samuel's commitment to honesty and righteousness in his dealings with the people. Samuel's claim that he had not defrauded or oppressed them, nor taken advantage of anyone, highlights his dedication to serving the Israelites with integrity and fairness. By making this statement, Samuel was reassuring the people that he had always acted in their best interests and had not abused his position of power for personal gain. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and ethical behavior in leadership, setting an example for all those in positions of authority to follow.

The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of integrity and fairness in dealings with others. The statement made by the people to Samuel demonstrates their belief in his uprightness and honesty as a leader. In a broader theological context, this verse speaks to the importance of treating others justly and with respect, as well as the value of living a life free from dishonesty and exploitation. It reflects the idea that God values honesty and fairness in all human interactions. In terms of word studies, a closer look at the Hebrew words used in this verse can reveal nuances of meaning that may not be immediately apparent in translation. For example, the word "defrauded" can also be translated as "wronged" or "oppressed," shedding light on the specific ways in which the people felt they had been treated justly by Samuel. Additionally, examining the term "ought" may highlight the significance of not taking anything that does not rightfully belong to oneself. Overall, this verse conveys a powerful message about the importance of integrity and ethical conduct in relationships with others.