The Pulpit Commentary - 1 Samuel 28:1-5
The operation of moral causes. The facts are— 1 . On war arising between the Philistines and Israel, Achish reminds David of his obligation to assist him in battle. 2 . David, although answering ambiguously, is trusted by Achish, who promises him promotion. 3 . On the opposing forces being assembled, Saul's heart faints for fear of his enemy. The narrative shows that both David and Saul were at the same time in embarrassed circumstances, and each as the consequence of his sin.... read more
Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible - 1 Samuel 28:7
Seek me a woman that hath a familiar spirit - Literally, Seek me a woman, אוב בעלת baalath ob , the mistress of the Obidiah or Pythonic spirit - one who had a familiar spirit, whom she could invoke when she pleased, and receive answers from him relative to futurity. Strange that a man, who had banished all such from the land, as dangerous to the state, as impostors and deceivers, should now have recourse to them as the only persons in whom he could safely put his... read more