John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 5. And when they were come to the land of Zuph , etc.] In which was Ramathaimzophim, the native place of Samuel, ( 1 Samuel 1:1) and so the Targum here, “the land in which was the prophet” Saul said to the servant that was with him, come, and let us return ; home, despairing of finding the asses after so long a search in divers places: lest my father leave caring for the asses, and take thought for us ; fearing some evil should have befallen his son and his servant, in comparison of whom, and especially his son, the asses would be of no account, and so give himself no concern for them, but be in great care and uneasiness for his son and servant; wherefore Saul thought it most advisable to return home as soon as possible, lest his father should be overwhelmed with grief and trouble.
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 המה1992 באו935 בארץ776 צוף6689 ושׁאול7586 אמר559 לנערו5288 אשׁר834 עמו5973 לכה1980 ונשׁובה7725 פן6435 יחדל2308 אבי1 מן4480 האתנות860 ודאג׃1672
