Clarke's Bible Commentary - 1 Samuel 28:23
Verse 23. I will not eat.] It is no wonder that not only his strength, but also his appetite, had departed from him. And sat upon the bed] Beds or couches were the common places on which the ancients sat to take their repasts.
John Gill's Bible Commentary
Ver. 23. But he refused, and said, I will not eat , etc.] Choosing rather to die with famine than by the sword of the Philistines; though perhaps his meaning is, he could not eat, his stomach loathed it, being overwhelmed with grief and trouble: but his servants, together with the woman, compelled him ; not by force, but by arguments; they reasoned with him, and prevailed upon him to try to eat: and he hearkened unto their voice ; and agreed to eat, if he could; so he arose from the earth ; on which he lay at his full length: and sat upon the bed ; or couch, it being now the custom to recline on couches at caring; though some deny that this custom obtained so early.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 20-25 - Those that expect any good counsel or comfort, otherwise than from God and in the way of his institutions, will be as wretchedly disappointe as Saul. Though terrified even to despair, he was not humbled. He confessed not his sins, offered no sacrifices, and presented n supplications. He does not seem to have cared about his sons or his people, or to have attempted any escape; but in sullen despair he rushed upon his doom. God sets up a few such beacons, to warn men no to stifle convictions, or despise his word. But while one repentin thought remains, let no sinner suppose himself in this case. Let his humble himself before God, determined to live and die beseeching his favour, and he will succeed __________________________________________________________________
Original Hebrew
וימאן 3985 ויאמר 559 לא 3808 אכל 398 ויפרצו 6555 בו עבדיו 5650 וגם 1571 האשׁה 802 וישׁמע 8085 לקלם 6963 ויקם 6965 מהארץ 776 וישׁב 3427 אל 413 המטה׃ 4296
