1 Samuel 12:21
ESV
And do not turn aside after empty things that cannot profit or deliver, for they are empty.
NIV
Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless.
NASB
Indeed, you must not turn aside, for then you would go after useless things which cannot benefit or save, because they are useless.
CSB
Don’t turn away to follow worthless things that can’t profit or rescue you; they are worthless.
NLT
Don’t go back to worshiping worthless idols that cannot help or rescue you — they are totally useless!
KJV
And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain.
NKJV
And do not turn aside; for then you would go after empty things which cannot profit or deliver, for they are nothing.
What does 1 Samuel 12:21 mean?
Please see our chapter commentary on 1 Samuel chapter 12, verse-level content coming soon!First Samuel 12:20–25 concludes Samuel's speech declaring his transition out of the role of judge. Although the nation now has a king, their basic obligations towards the Lord have not changed. Samuel will still pray and teach the people—becoming the nation's last judge (Judges 2:16–19) and its first national prophet. Samuel warns that the people risk disaster if the nation fails to follow God.
Samuel gives a speech to the gathered people of Israel, including Saul, the new king. This marks the end of his time as judge over Israel (Judges 2:16–19). He establishes a legal declaration that he is innocent of any corruption. After summarizing God's faithfulness to Israel, Samuel demonstrates that it was wrong of the people to ask for a human king. Yet he assures them of the Lord's faithfulness. He tells them to follow the Lord or be swept away along with their king. Samuel also affirms that he will continue to pray for the people and instruct them in the ways of God.
