The Church Fathers on this verse

1 Kingdoms (1 Samuel) 12:23Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

And far from me be this sin against the Lord, that I should cease to pray for you: and I will teach you the good and right way.

Douay-Rheims

גַּ֣ם אָנֹכִ֗י חָלִ֤ילָה לִּי֙ מֵחֲטֹ֣א לַֽיהוָ֔ה מֵחֲדֹ֖ל לְהִתְפַּלֵּ֣ל בַּעַדְכֶ֑ם וְהוֹרֵיתִ֣י אֶתְכֶ֔ם בְּדֶ֥רֶךְ הַטּוֹבָ֖ה וְהַיְשָׁרָֽה׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

3 Church Fathers comment on this verse

John Chrysostom

4th centuryChurch Father

After Samuel expressed deep concern for his people, he proclaimed, "I will not permit myself to sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you." Observing those dear to him in distress and suffering through conflict, feeling the wrath of God upon them, how could he find joy? How could he be free from sorrow and tears?

Indeed, a true love for Christ extends to his followers. Samuel embodied a profound affection, which is why he affirmed, "I will not allow myself to sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you."

Read more (84 words)

Nothing reveals the character of a leader more than their love for those they guide. Being a father requires more than just bringing forth life; it necessitates love. If love is essential in situations guided by nature, it becomes crucial in those inspired by grace. This is how the ancients distinguished themselves, and how those honored among the Jews achieved their stature. Samuel demonstrated his greatness through his statement, "I will not permit myself to sin against God by ceasing to pray for you."

Ephraem the Syrian

4th centuryChurch Father

Reverence the Lord and do not lead the common person astray. Follow the example of the prophet Samuel, who both delighted God and uplifted humanity.

Gregory the Great

6th centuryChurch Father

Why are Moses and Samuel, among the patriarchs, given special regard when it comes to intercession, if not because these two figures are noted throughout the Old Testament for their fervent prayers, even on behalf of their adversaries? One was stoned by the very people he led, yet he pleaded with the Lord for their sake (See Exodus 17:4). The other was stripped of his leadership position, but when called to pray for the people, he declared, 'I will not sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you.'

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.