Saul Weinreb - Let the Prophets Speak

Samuel1:29 - David’s Close Call

David gets saved from a very sticky situation at the last minute.

Samuel 1:28 - The Ralbag (Gersonides) Approach

The Ralbag offers an incredibly sophisticated and natural explanation for the strange events of our chapter.  Using his approach, we uncover even deeper layers of meaing in this fascinating chapter.

Samuel 1:28 - Rabbi Chafni Gaon Approach

We explore a completely different understanding of this chapter according to the approach of Rabbi Chafni Gaon.  This very rationalist understanding leads us to some profound insights into the failure of Saul to lead the people and why he was unworthy as a King.

Samuel 1:28 - The Saadiah Gaon Approach

We discuss a second, slightly more "rationalistic" approach to understanding this fascinating chapter.  In this understanding, a miracle from God has just occurred.

Samuel 1:28 - The Ramban Approach

This unusual chapter in Tanach has many ways of understanding it, we begin a series of analysis with the approach of the mystics. 

Samuel 1:28c - The Spirit of Samuel Speaks

Saul hears Samuel's message, which isn't much different from Samuel's message when he was alive.  God has rejected you because you disobeyed Him!  No amount of fasting and ritual and summoning of spirits is going to change that!

Samuel 1:28b - Saul Visits the Necromancer

We read of the descent of Saul into the dark world of Necromancy as he visits a witch to summon the ghost of Samuel.

Samuel 1:28a - Introduction to 28:Saul’s Fear

We introduce one of the most unusual chapters in Tanach with an analysis of Saul's flawed understanding of theology.  We begin the chapter and explain the origin of King Saul's terrible fear and anxiety.

Samuel 1:27 - David Takes Refuge in Gat

Once again David takes refuge among the Philistines.  Only this time he and his men continue the work of securing the future of Judea, right under the noses of their enemies.

Samuel 1:26 - David is a Real Man, Once Again

Once again David has the opportunity to assassinate Saul, and once again he respects the King.  Saul again has a moment of clarity, but his promises are no longer taken seriously.