And do not turn aside after empty things that cannot profit or deliver, for they are empty.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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1 Samuel 12:21
What does 1 Samuel 12:21 mean?
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1 Samuel 12:21
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The most striking thing here is the repetition: "empty things... they are empty." This isn't just a casual dismissal; it's an urgent, almost weary emphasis from God about the utter futility and powerlessness of anything we chase instead of Him. It calls out our tendency to seek security and fulfillment in things that ultimately offer no real substance or salvation.
And do not turn aside after empty things that cannot profit or deliver, for they are empty.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Samuel is delivering his farewell address to Israel, addressing their foolish request for a king. He's reminding them that turning to other gods and idols is a futile and dangerous path that will ultimately lead to their destruction, just as their kings will if they persist in disobedience. This warning comes right after he's powerfully demonstrated God's faithfulness and power by calling down thunder and rain in the harvest season, proving that true help comes only from the Lord.
We're often drawn to what seems powerful, promising, or popular. But what if the things we chase are ultimately worthless?
Samuel is speaking to Israel during a pivotal moment – they've just insisted on having a king, moving away from God's direct leadership through judges. He calls the things they might turn to (idols, other nations' gods, or even just earthly power) 'empty things'.
What Makes Them Empty?
These 'empty things' are like chasing after wind – a lot of effort for nothing to show for it. They distract us from the One who can profit us and can deliver us.
Life presents us with constant choices. Samuel reminds us that choosing wisely means understanding the true source of help and hope.
The phrase 'do not turn aside' is crucial here. It implies a deliberate choice, a deviation from the right path. Israel is being warned against drifting away from their covenant with God.
What's the Alternative?
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This isn't just about avoiding bad things; it's about actively pursuing the good and true God, who is the only reliable refuge and source of life.
Understand the original words
tohu · Hebrew Noun
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word refers to something vanity, non-existence, or worthless, often used to describe idols that have no power or reality. It suggests a lack of substance and ultimate futility.
Samuel's warning against 'empty things' is given in the context of Israel's turbulent transition to monarchy. As David, the rising hero, aligns himself with the Philistines (who worship foreign gods and are Israel's oppressors), Samuel urges loyalty to the Lord alone, reminding them that these 'empty' idols and alliances offer no real deliverance.
~1050 BC
Saul Anointed King
After years of charismatic judges, the people of Israel demand a king like other nations, and Samuel reluctantly anoints Saul.
c. 1025 BC
Philistine Dominance
The Philistines, a powerful seafaring people, exert significant control over Israel, limiting their military and economic development.
c. 1010 BC
David Rises to Prominence
David, a shepherd boy, gains fame for defeating the Philistine champion Goliath and becomes a trusted warrior under Saul.
c. 1010-1000 BC
Saul's Jealousy and Persecution
Saul becomes increasingly paranoid and jealous of David's popularity, leading him to hunt David as a fugitive.
c. 1000 BC— this verse
David Flees to Philistia
David, fearing for his life, seeks refuge and even serves under the Philistine king Achish, a complex and dangerous situation.
c. 1000 BC
Saul's Demise
Saul and his sons are killed in battle against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa, marking the end of his troubled reign.
This passage powerfully echoes the warning against turning to idols, calling them 'worthless' and a 'broken cistern' that cannot hold water, highlighting the futility of seeking help from things that cannot save.
Psalm 115:4-8Here, the psalmist directly describes the lifelessness and powerlessness of idols made by human hands, emphasizing that those who trust in them become just as useless and disconnected from reality.
Matthew 6:24Jesus warns against serving two masters, illustrating that our devotion must be to God alone, as we cannot simultaneously pursue wealth or worldly possessions ('mammon'), which are ultimately empty and fleeting.
Acts 14:15Paul and Barnabas caution the Lycaonians against turning to 'worthless' pagan gods, proclaiming the living God who made all things, reinforcing the idea that true life and deliverance come only from the Creator, not created things.
The most striking thing here is the repetition: "empty things... they are empty." This isn't just a casual dismissal; it's an urgent, almost weary emphasis from God about the utter futility and powerlessness of anything we chase instead of Him. It calls out our tendency to seek security and fulfillment in things that ultimately offer no real substance or salvation.
Samuel is delivering his farewell address to Israel, addressing their foolish request for a king. He's reminding them that turning to other gods and idols is a futile and dangerous path that will ultimately lead to their destruction, just as their kings will if they persist in disobedience. This warning comes right after he's powerfully demonstrated God's faithfulness and power by calling down thunder and rain in the harvest season, proving that true help comes only from the Lord.
Samuel is delivering his farewell address to Israel, addressing their foolish request for a king. He's reminding them that turning to other gods and idols is a futile and dangerous path that will ultimately lead to their destruction, just as their kings will if they persist in disobedience. This warning comes right after he's powerfully demonstrated God's faithfulness and power by calling down thunder and rain in the harvest season, proving that true help comes only from the Lord.
"And do not turn aside after empty things that cannot profit or deliver, for they are empty." — The most striking thing here is the repetition: "empty things... they are empty." This isn't just a casual dismissal; it's an urgent, almost weary emphasis from God about the utter futility and power…
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Last reviewed October 2026