Definition: And she arose, and bowed herself on [her] face to the earth, and said, Behold, [let] thine handmaid [be] a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 25:41. It’s a really interesting and somewhat surprising story about a woman! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, she was offering herself as a servant to King Saul. Let’s unpack that: “She arose”: This tells us the woman was standing up and looking at something. “And bowed herself on her face to the earth”: This is a very dramatic image – she lowered herself to the ground, almost as if in submission or remorse. It suggests deep regret or a feeling of shame. “and said, Behold, let thine handmaid be a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.” This is the key part. She’s declaring that she – her name isn't revealed – is now willing to do a very difficult and humbling task: washing the feet of King Saul's guests. What’s the significance? This verse is often interpreted as a sign of profound repentance and a willingness to sacrifice herself for someone else. It suggests: She was deeply troubled: The act of offering herself is a huge gesture of humility and acknowledging her own shortcomings. She was seeking forgiveness: The action is a direct request for God's mercy, as she’s essentially pleading for his forgiveness for her actions. It’s about service and obedience: It highlights the importance of serving others – especially those in positions of power – and being willing to put yourself aside for their benefit. Important Note: The exact story behind this event is somewhat debated among biblical scholars, but it's generally understood as a pivotal moment in Samuel's life where he recognized the gravity of his actions and made a significant commitment to repentance. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the possible interpretations of this story? Or perhaps, do you have any specific questions about this passage that you’d like me to answer?