Definition: But he refused, and said, I will not eat. But his servants, together with the woman, compelled him; and he hearkened unto their voice. So he arose from the earth, and sat upon the bed.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Samuel 28:23. It’s a really powerful and slightly mysterious passage about a king and his servant. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: A King is Being Forced to Eat: The verse describes a king, Saul, being ordered by God to eat a specific meal – a roasted pig. He refuses, and his servants try to force him to eat it. Servants Compel Him: These servants, likely his advisors or officials, relentlessly pressure the king to obey. They’re essentially trying to get him to do what they want. The King Falls Down: This is the really striking part! As a result of their persistence, the king falls down from his throne and sits on a bed. What It Means – A Symbolic Interpretation (and a bit of potential meaning): This isn't just about him falling down. It’s a metaphor for a significant shift in his power and spirit. Here are some possible interpretations: Loss of Authority: The king’s refusal to eat symbolizes a loss of his authority. He’s resisting God's will, which is a crucial part of the plan for Israel. Rebellion Against God: The act of refusing to eat is a direct challenge to God’s command. It shows a rebellion against divine guidance and might be interpreted as a sign of his growing distrust or perhaps even a falling away from faith. A Turning Point in His Life: The fall down the bed signifies a significant shift in Saul's emotional state. He's being humbled, perhaps confronting a reality he wasn’t ready for. Overall Significance: This verse is often seen as a pivotal moment in Samuel's life – it marks a turning point where his pride and stubbornness lead to a crisis. It highlights the importance of obedience to God and the potential consequences of resisting divine guidance. Important Note: Different interpretations exist, and there’s no single definitive answer to what this verse really means. It's a rich and layered passage that invites contemplation about faith, obedience, and the challenges of leadership. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of 1 Samuel? Discuss the possible interpretations in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific biblical story or theme?