John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 3. And the asses of Kish, Saul’s father, were lost , etc.] Had got out of the stables or fields, in which they were kept, and strayed from thence: and Kish said to Saul his son, take now one of the servants with thee, and arise, go seek the asses ; he chose not to send his servants only, who might not be so careful and diligent in searching for them, but his son, and not him alone, but a servant with him to wait upon him, and assist him. And it was quite agreeable to the simplicity of those times for persons of equal or greater substance to be employed in such an affair; asses made a considerable part of the wealth and riches of men, were rode upon by persons of quality, and were fed and taken care of by the sons of dukes and princes; (see Job 1:3 Judges 5:10 Genesis 36:24). The Jews have a tradition, that this servant was Doeg the Edomite.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 1-10 - Saul readily went to seek his father's asses. His obedience to his father was praise-worthy. His servant proposed, that since they wer now at Ramah, they should call on Samuel, and take his advice. Whereve we are, we should use our opportunities of acquainting ourselves with those who are wise and good. Many will consult a man of God, if he comes in their way, that would not go a step out of their way to ge wisdom. We sensibly feel worldly losses, and bestow much pains to make them up; but how little do we attempt, and how soon are we weary, is seeking the salvation of our souls! If ministers could tell men how to secure their property, or to get wealth, they would be more consulte and honoured than they now are, though employed in teaching them how to escape eternal misery, and to obtain eternal life. Most people woul rather be told their fortune than their duty. Samuel needed not their money, nor would he have denied his advice, if they had not brought it but they gave it to him as a token of respect, and of the value the put upon his office, and according to the general usage of those times always to bring a present to those in authority.
Original Hebrew ותאבדנה6 האתנות860 לקישׁ7027 אבי1 שׁאול7586 ויאמר559 קישׁ7027 אל413 שׁאול7586 בנו1121 קח3947 נא4994 אתך854 את853 אחד259 מהנערים5288 וקום6965 לך1980 בקשׁ1245 את853 האתנת׃860
