1)

Why did they draw water and spill it?

1.

Rashi citing Targum Yonasan, Midrash Shmuel 13:1: They spilled their hearts like water, in Teshuvah in front of Hashem.

2.

Rashi: This showed humility - we are in front of You like this water, which is spilled!

3.

Radak: Perhaps this was a Siman for pardon of sins - "k'Mayim Avru Sizkor" (Iyov 11:16).

4.

Malbim: This refers to spilling tears.

2)

Why did they fast?

1.

Malbim: It is to check for sins of individuals and the Rabim, and separate from them. "Zeh Tzom Evcharehu Pate'ach Charbutzos Resha" (Yeshayah 58:6).

3)

What did Shmuel judge?

1.

Rashi: He judged monetary cases between people, or sins that were done.

2.

Radak: He punished everyone according to his sins, for there they confessed their sins.

3.

Malbim: He judged sins Bein Adam l'Chavero. For this, Viduy (va'Yomeru Sham Chatanu) and Teshuvah alone do not suffice.

Sefer: Perek: Pasuk:

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