1 Kingdoms (1 Samuel) 28:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

As previously mentioned, Scripture serves as a truthful reflection, revealing the true nature of its subjects without offering flattery. It either evaluates human actions as deserving of honor or shame, or it leaves the assessment to the reader. Furthermore, it categorizes individuals as either commendable or condemnable while acknowledging instances where the wicked receive undeserved approval and the just face unwarranted condemnation. For example, although Saul's character was flawed, it was commendable for him to recognize who had consumed food during the oath and to impose a strict penalty in obedience to the Lord’s command against eating (See 1 Samuel 14:24-44). Additionally, his directive to expel sorcerers and mediums from the land was righteous (See 1 Samuel 28:3). While David is regarded as a man of integrity, it is imperative that we do not condone his transgressions or seek to replicate them, particularly those that the Lord points out through the prophet’s rebuke (See 2 Samuel 12:1-15).

Why does the author refer again to Samuel's death after previously discussing it in 1 Samuel 25:1? (1 Sam. 28:3) To convey the account of the witch, mentioning Samuel's passing was necessary.