King James Version

What Does 1 Samuel 8:12 Mean?

And he will appoint him captains over thousands, and captains over fifties; and will set them to ear his ground, and to reap his harvest, and to make his instruments of war, and instruments of his chariots.

Context

10

And Samuel told all the words of the LORD unto the people that asked of him a king.

11

And he said, This will be the manner of the king that shall reign over you: He will take your sons, and appoint them for himself, for his chariots, and to be his horsemen; and some shall run before his chariots.

12

And he will appoint him captains over thousands, and captains over fifties; and will set them to ear his ground, and to reap his harvest, and to make his instruments of war, and instruments of his chariots.

13

And he will take your daughters to be confectionaries, and to be cooks, and to be bakers.

14

And he will take your fields, and your vineyards, and your oliveyards, even the best of them, and give them to his servants.

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(12) **To ear his ground.**—To ear, that is, *to plough. *The word is an old word (Anglo-Saxon *earian*)*, *and connected with the Latin *arare.*

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

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.

Theological Significance

1 Samuel 8:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Samuel 8:12

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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