Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 28 - Verse 11

In this verse, we see a woman who is summoning the spirit of Samuel on behalf of King Saul. The woman is a medium from Endor, and she is being asked by King Saul to bring up the deceased prophet Samuel. This request is significant because it is against the laws of the Israelites to consult with mediums or summon spirits, as it goes against their faith in God. However, King Saul is desperate for guidance, as he is facing a battle with the Philistines and God has stopped speaking to him. Bringing up Samuel shows Saul's desperation and lack of faith in God's guidance. It also sets the stage for the confrontation between Saul and Samuel, as the prophet will deliver a message to the king that he does not want to hear. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of seeking guidance from sources outside of God's will, and the importance of trusting in God's plan.

Upon examining the theological interpretation of the verse 'Then said the woman, Whom shall I bring up unto thee? And he said, Bring me up Samuel,' scholars have delved into the significance of spiritual practices such as invoking the dead. This particular passage has raised discussions about the morality and implications of communicating with deceased individuals. Some theologians argue that this event reveals the dangers of engaging in occult practices, as seen through the consequences of Saul's actions. Others point to the complex theological implications of the afterlife and the nature of communication between the living and the dead. Additionally, word studies on phrases such as "bring me up" have been conducted to gain insight into the language and cultural context of the original Hebrew text, shedding light on the nuances of the interaction between the woman and Saul.