Definition: And Saul said unto his uncle, He told us plainly that the asses were found. But of the matter of the kingdom, whereof Samuel spake, he told him not.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 10:16 together. It's a really important part of understanding how Saul handled a situation and why he was so troubled. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Samuel was telling about a problem with the king. Samuel had been talking about a specific issue – a problem with the king’s advisors that was causing trouble. Saul, Samuel's uncle, asked him to confirm this problem. Saul, who was a powerful and influential figure, asked Samuel to tell him definitively if the problem really existed. Saul didn't say anything about the kingdom. This is the crucial part. He refused to share any information about the bigger picture – about the entire kingdom of Israel and what Samuel was trying to accomplish. What it’s saying: This verse shows Saul being secretive and unwilling to share important information. He was prioritizing his own concerns and protecting his own position, even if it meant keeping a secret. Possible Interpretations (it's not always straightforward): He was worried about the king. Perhaps Samuel was worried about the king’s actions or decisions that might affect his own power or influence. He was trying to maintain control. Saul may have been trying to keep the situation under wraps, perhaps because he feared it would undermine his position or reveal secrets he wanted to keep secret. It's a sign of his pride and stubbornness. The verse hints at a deeper issue – a reluctance to share responsibility and acknowledge the bigger picture. In essence, this verse highlights Saul's tendency to be secretive and focused on protecting himself, even when it means withholding vital information. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from 1 Samuel? Discuss a specific aspect of this passage (like its historical context)?