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Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 16 - Verse 14

16:14
But the spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the LORD troubled him.

Meaning

When the spirit of the LORD departed from Saul and an evil spirit troubled him, it marked a pivotal moment in Saul's life. This event signified the consequences of Saul's disobedience to God's commands and his rejection of God's will. Without the guiding presence of the LORD, Saul was left vulnerable to the influence of an evil spirit, which brought torment and trouble upon him. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of remaining faithful and obedient to God, as straying from His path can lead to spiritual desolation and inner turmoil. It also highlights the power of spiritual forces at play in the lives of individuals, showing how the absence of God's presence can open the door to negative influences. Ultimately, this verse emphasizes the significance of maintaining a strong relationship with God and following His ways to avoid being led astray and haunted by darkness.

Theological Overview

In this passage, we see the theological interpretation of the spirit of the LORD departing from King Saul. This represents the withdrawal of God's favor and anointing from Saul due to his disobedience and rebellion against God's commands. The mention of an evil spirit troubling Saul can be understood as the consequence of God allowing Saul to be tormented by an evil spirit as a form of divine judgment for his actions. This verse highlights the spiritual consequences of turning away from God and the importance of obedience to His will.

Word studies may reveal deeper meanings in this verse. The word "spirit" can refer to the inner being or breath of life, indicating the important role of the spiritual realm in Saul's life. The word "troubled" can signify agitation or distress, showing the torment Saul experienced as a result of the evil spirit. Overall, this verse showcases the spiritual dynamics at play in Saul's life and serves as a cautionary reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God.

American Standard Version

Now the Spirit of Jehovah departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from Jehovah troubled him.
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