I Samuel
Old Testament • Book #9
The transition from judges to kings, featuring Samuel, Saul, and David.
"Now there was a certain man of Ramathaim Zophim, of the hill country of Ephraim, and his name was Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephraimite:"
— I Samuel 1:1
About the Book of I Samuel
First Samuel bridges the era of judges to the monarchy. It tells the story of Samuel, Israel's last judge and first major prophet, the rise and fall of King Saul, and the anointing of young David. The book explores themes of leadership, obedience, and what God truly looks for in a person — not outward appearance, but the heart.
Background
- Author
- Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Date Written
- ~1050–930 BC
- Genre
- Historical Narrative
Key Themes in I Samuel
- ▸God looks at the heart
- ▸The danger of demanding our own way
- ▸Obedience over sacrifice
- ▸Rise of the monarchy
- ▸Friendship and loyalty (David and Jonathan)
Famous Verses from I Samuel
“The Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.”
— 1 Samuel 16:7
“Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.”
— 1 Samuel 15:22
“The battle is the Lord's, and he will give you into our hands.”
— 1 Samuel 17:47
“Only fear the Lord, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you.”
— 1 Samuel 12:24
“There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God.”
— 1 Samuel 2:2
Chapters in I Samuel
Related to I Samuel
Books that share themes, history, or theological connections.
Explore More Old Testament
Include I Samuel in Your Reading Plan
Read I Samuel as part of our free 365-day Bible reading plan. Track your progress and never miss a day.
Start Your Reading Plan →