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Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 16 - Verse 9

16:9
Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. And he said, Neither hath the LORD chosen this.

Meaning

When Jesse presented his son Shammah to Samuel, hoping that he would be chosen as the future king of Israel, Samuel declared that the Lord had not chosen him. This verse illustrates the divine selection process that was at play in the anointing of David as the chosen king. The rejection of Shammah was a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative as it highlighted the importance of God's hand in selecting leaders rather than relying on human judgment alone. This verse serves as a reminder that God's ways are not always our ways, and His choices may not align with our expectations. It also reinforces the notion that God's plans are sovereign and cannot be undermined by human desires or ambitions. Ultimately, this verse conveys the message that true leadership comes from God's approval and not from human accolades or qualifications.

Theological Overview

In this passage, when Jesse presents his son Shammah to Samuel as a potential king, Samuel declares that the Lord has not chosen him. This moment serves as a reminder that God's ways are higher than our own, and His choices are not always what we would expect. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the sovereignty of God in selecting leaders. It shows that the Lord's selection is not based on outward appearances or human standards, but on His divine wisdom and purposes. This verse prompts us to trust in God's plan even when it may seem contrary to our expectations. The word studies in this verse can further illuminate the concept of God's choosing. By exploring the original Hebrew words used for "chosen," we can gain a deeper understanding of the specific connotations and nuances that the text intends to convey. Overall, this verse is a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking God's will and submitting to His divine authority in all aspects of life.

American Standard Version

Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. And he said, Neither hath Jehovah chosen this.
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