Then Saul drew near to Samuel in the gate, and said, Tell me, I pray thee, where the seer's house is — Saul's approach to Samuel is formal and respectful; he draws near in the gate (sha'ar), the public space of the city where business and judicial matters were conducted. Saul speaks with courtesy ('nā', please), addressing Samuel as 'the seer' without recognizing him. His question—where is the seer's house?—is straightforward and practical. The dramatic irony is exquisite: Saul addresses the very man he is seeking, but sees only a stranger. Samuel is standing before him, yet Saul does not know him. This irony will deepen as the scene progresses.

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