King James Version
1 Samuel 12:21 in the King James Version says “And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain.” — study this verse from 1 Samuel chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain.”
1 Samuel 12:21 · KJV
And all the people said unto Samuel, Pray for thy servants unto the LORD thy God, that we die not: for we have added unto all our sins this evil, to ask us a king.
And Samuel said unto the people, Fear not: ye have done all this wickedness: yet turn not aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart;
And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain.
For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people.
Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way: in: Heb. from
KJV Study — Public Domain
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“for then should ye go after”
H310properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
“for they are vain”
H8414a desolation (of surface), i.e., desert; figuratively, a worthless thing; adverbially, in vain
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“things which cannot profit”
H3276properly, to ascend; figuratively, to be valuable (objectively; useful, subjectively; benefited)
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“for they are vain”
H8414a desolation (of surface), i.e., desert; figuratively, a worthless thing; adverbially, in vain
This verse is found in the book of 1 Samuel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
1 Samuel 12:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to 1 Samuel 12:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge