1 Samuel 10:2

When you leave me today, you will find two men at Rachel's tomb in Zelzah on the border of Benjamin. They will say to you, 'The donkeys you seek have been found, and now your father has stopped worrying about the donkeys and started worrying about you, asking, "What should I do about my son?"'

Study Bible

When you leave me today
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in Saul's life, as he transitions from a private individual to the anointed king of Israel. The immediacy of "today" underscores the urgency and divine timing in God's plan. In Hebrew, the word for "leave" (יָצָא, yatsa) often implies a departure with purpose, suggesting that Saul's journey is divinely orchestrated.

you will find two men
The specificity of "two men" indicates a divine appointment. In biblical narratives, pairs often signify witness and confirmation (Deuteronomy 19:15). These men serve as God's messengers, affirming the truth of Samuel's prophecy and the unfolding of God's plan for Saul.

at Rachel’s tomb
Rachel's tomb is a significant landmark, symbolizing Israel's heritage and God's faithfulness to His promises. Rachel, the beloved wife of Jacob, represents the matriarchal lineage of Israel. The mention of her tomb evokes themes of legacy and covenant, reminding Saul of his place within God's unfolding account for His people.

in Zelzah
Zelzah, though not widely known, is strategically located on the border of Benjamin, Saul's tribe. This location highlights Saul's connection to his tribal roots and the importance of his role in uniting the tribes of Israel. The name Zelzah may mean "shadow" or "projection," suggesting a place of transition or revelation.

on the border of Benjamin
The border of Benjamin signifies a threshold, both geographically and spiritually. Saul, a Benjamite, stands on the brink of a new identity as king. This border represents the crossing from the familiar into the unknown, a journey of faith and obedience to God's calling.

They will say to you
The phrase indicates a prophetic encounter, where the words spoken are not merely informative but transformative. In Hebrew culture, spoken words carry power and authority, often serving as a vehicle for divine revelation and guidance.

‘The donkeys you set out to look for have been found
The resolution of the search for the donkeys symbolizes God's provision and attention to detail. While Saul's initial quest was mundane, it becomes the catalyst for a greater divine purpose. This phrase reassures Saul of God's sovereignty over both small and significant matters in life.

and now your father has stopped thinking about the donkeys
This shift in focus from the donkeys to Saul himself highlights the personal nature of God's concern. It reflects the biblical theme that God values individuals and their destinies, often redirecting their paths for His greater purposes.

and is worried about you
The father's worry underscores the relational aspect of God's dealings with humanity. Just as Saul's father is concerned for his son, God is intimately involved in the lives of His people, caring for their well-being and guiding their steps.

asking, ‘What should I do about my son?’
This question reflects a father's love and concern, mirroring God's paternal care for His children. It invites reflection on the divine guidance available to those who seek God's will. The question also foreshadows Saul's future role, as he will soon be responsible for the welfare of an entire nation, just as his father is concerned for him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
The prophet who anointed Saul as the first king of Israel. He is delivering God's message to Saul.

2. Saul
The son of Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin, who is being anointed as the first king of Israel.

3. Rachel’s Tomb
A significant landmark near Zelzah, associated with Rachel, the beloved wife of Jacob and mother of Joseph and Benjamin.

4. Zelzah
A location on the border of Benjamin, where Saul is to encounter the two men.

5. The Two Men
Unnamed individuals who will confirm to Saul that the donkeys have been found and convey his father's concern.

Teaching Points

Divine Guidance
God provides specific instructions and signs to guide His chosen leaders. Just as Saul received clear directions, we can trust God to guide us in our own lives.

Significance of Landmarks
Rachel’s tomb serves as a historical and spiritual landmark, reminding us of God's faithfulness through generations.

God’s Provision
The resolution of the lost donkeys illustrates God's provision and care for our needs, even in seemingly mundane matters.

Parental Concern
Kish’s worry for Saul reflects the natural concern of parents for their children, reminding us to honor and communicate with our parents.

Prophetic Fulfillment
The fulfillment of Samuel's prophecy to Saul demonstrates the reliability of God's word and His control over events.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the encounter at Rachel’s tomb serve as a confirmation of God’s calling for Saul, and what does this teach us about recognizing God’s guidance in our lives?

2. In what ways can we see God’s provision in our daily lives, similar to how He resolved the issue of the lost donkeys for Saul?

3. How does the concern of Saul’s father, Kish, reflect the biblical principle of honoring and caring for our family relationships?

4. What are some modern "landmarks" or reminders in our lives that help us remember God’s faithfulness and promises?

5. How can we apply the principle of prophetic fulfillment in 1 Samuel 10:2 to strengthen our trust in the reliability of Scripture today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 35:19-20
Rachel's death and burial near Bethlehem, establishing the significance of Rachel’s tomb as a landmark.

1 Samuel 9:3-5
The context of Saul's journey to find the lost donkeys, which leads to his encounter with Samuel.

Jeremiah 31:15
Rachel weeping for her children, highlighting the enduring significance of Rachel in Israel's history.

Acts 9:10-12
Ananias receiving a vision about Saul (Paul), showing how God provides specific guidance through visions and messages.