King James Version
What Does 1 Samuel 8:4 Mean?
“Then all the elders of Israel gathered themselves together, and came to Samuel unto Ramah,”
Context
2
Now the name of his firstborn was Joel; and the name of his second, Abiah: they were judges in Beersheba.
3
And his sons walked not in his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted judgment.
4
Then all the elders of Israel gathered themselves together, and came to Samuel unto Ramah,
5
And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.
6
But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed unto the LORD. displeased: Heb. was evil in the eyes of
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **All the elders of Israel.**—We have here a clear trace of a popular assembly which seems in all times to have existed in Israel. Such a body appears to have met for deliberation even during the Egyptian captivity (see Exodus 3:16). Of this popular council we know little beyond the fact of its existence. It seems to have been composed of representatives of the people, qualified by birth or office; these were known as “elders.” Ewald sees special allusions to the “Parliament” or Assembly of Elders in Psalms 1. and 82. There are, however, various mentions of these councils in the Books of Samuel, Kings, Jeremiah, and Isaiah.
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 8:4 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 8:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge