1 Then Nahash the Ammonite went up and besieged Jabesh-gilead, and all the men of Jabesh said to Nahash, “Make a treaty with us, and we will serve you.”
2 But Nahash the Ammonite said to them, “On this condition I will make a treaty with you, that I gouge out all your right eyes, and thus bring disgrace on all Israel.”
3 And the elders of Jabesh said to him, “Give us seven days’ respite that we may send messengers through all the territory of Israel. Then, if there is no one to save us, we will give ourselves up to you.”
4 When the messengers came to Gibeah of Saul, they reported the matter in the ears of the people, and all the people wept aloud.
5 Now, behold, Saul was coming from the field behind the oxen. And Saul said, “What is wrong with the people, that they are weeping?” So they told him the news of the men of Jabesh.
6 And the Spirit of God rushed upon Saul when he heard these words, and his anger was greatly kindled.
7 And he took a yoke of oxen and cut them in pieces and sent them throughout all the territory of Israel by the hand of messengers, saying, “Whoever does not come out after Saul and Samuel, so shall it be done to his oxen.” Then the dread of the Lord fell upon the people, and they came out as one man.
8 And he mustered them at Bezek, and the people of Israel were three hundred thousand, and the men of Judah thirty thousand.
9 And they said to the messengers who had come, “Thus shall you say to the men of Jabesh-gilead: ‘Tomorrow, by the time the sun is hot, you shall have salvation.’” When the messengers came and told the men of Jabesh, they were glad.
10 So the men of Jabesh said, “Tomorrow we will give ourselves up to you, and you may do to us whatever seems good to you.”
11 And the next day Saul put the people in three companies. And they came into the midst of the camp in the morning watch and struck down the Ammonites until the heat of the day. And those who survived were scattered, so that no two of them were left together.
12 The people said to Samuel, “Who is it that said, ‘Shall Saul reign over us?’ Bring the men, that we may put them to death.”
13 But Saul said, “Not a man shall be put to death this day, for today the Lord has worked salvation in Israel.”
14 Then Samuel said to the people, “Come, let us go to Gilgal and there renew the kingdom.”
15 So all the people went to Gilgal, and there they made Saul king before the Lord in Gilgal. There they sacrificed peace offerings before the Lord, and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly.
The True Meaning of 1 Samuel 11
The book of 1 Samuel was written by the prophet Samuel, who played a crucial role in the transition of Israel from a loose confederation of tribes to a unified kingdom under the leadership of Saul and David. Saul is called upon to defend the people of Jabesh-gilead from the threat of the Ammonites in this pivotal moment in the early days of his reign as king.
The chapter opens with the Ammonite king, Nahash, laying siege to the city of Jabesh-gilead. The people of Jabesh-gilead seek to make a treaty with Nahash, but he demands a high price – the gouging out of their right eyes. This cruel demand reflects the Ammonites’ long-standing enmity towards the Israelites, as seen in the account of their conflict with the tribes of Reuben and Gad in the book of Judges (Judges 11:12-33). The people of Jabesh-gilead send messengers to Saul, the newly anointed king of Israel, as they face this dire situation. Saul’s response to their plea for help will not only test his leadership but also reveal the extent of his commitment to the unity and protection of the Israelite people.
1 Samuel 11:1-4
Nahash the Ammonite is mentioned in 1 Samuel 11:1-4. Nahash is mentioned earlier in 1 Samuel 10:27 as being an adversary of the Israelites. Here in chapter 11, we see Nahash threatening the people of Jabesh Gilead by gouging out their right eyes, a symbol of utter humiliation and defeat. The demand for such a cruel act was not only physically painful but deeply degrading for the people of Jabesh Gilead. This act aimed to instill fear and subjugation among the Israelites, highlighting the brutal nature of Nahash and the Ammonites.
This section of the verse sets the stage for Saul’s leadership to be tested early on in his reign as king. Saul, upon hearing about the threat against Jabesh Gilead, reacts with urgency and courage. We see Saul’s character as a leader emerging here, as he displays concern for his fellow Israelites and takes decisive action to address the crisis they are facing. This response by Saul is crucial in establishing his reign and showing his potential as a leader chosen by God to deliver His people.
The mention of Saul’s response to the distress call from Jabesh Gilead reveals his qualities as a leader. He reacts with a sense of responsibility and urgency, showing his concern for the welfare of the people under his care. This display of leadership is significant as it sets the tone for Saul’s kingship and demonstrates his willingness to protect and defend the Israelites, which are key attributes for a ruler chosen by God. Saul’s prompt action in gathering an army to confront Nahash also reflects his decisiveness and determination, qualities that are important for a leader in times of crisis.
The situation with Nahash and the people of Jabesh Gilead is a reminder of the ongoing struggle between the Israelites and their neighboring enemies. Throughout the Bible, we see various nations rising against the people of God, seeking to oppress or conquer them. However, time and again, God raises up leaders like Saul to deliver His people from their enemies. This theme of God’s faithfulness in protecting and delivering His chosen ones is a consistent message throughout the Bible, illustrating His sovereignty and care for His people.
1 Samuel 11:5-11
An account of a significant event involving King Saul is seen in 1 Samuel 11:5-11. The passage starts with messengers from Jabesh Gilead bringing news to Saul that the Ammonites, led by Nahash, were threatening to gouge out the right eye of every man living in the city of Jabesh Gilead as a form of disgrace and humiliation. This news immediately stirs Saul to action and evokes a powerful response from the Spirit of God.
Saul’s reaction to the distressing news from Jabesh Gilead demonstrates his newfound sense of duty and leadership as the newly appointed king of Israel. Saul’s response stands as an example of a leader who is moved by compassion and a sense of responsibility towards his people. This event reveals Saul’s capacity to be a protector and deliverer in times of crisis, characteristics that are essential for any leader, especially in the biblical context. It highlights the importance of a leader being responsive to the needs and suffering of their people, a trait that aligns with biblical principles of love, compassion, and justice. The Spirit of God working through Saul is also evident in his actions. The Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon Saul, filling him with such righteous anger and zeal that he took a pair of oxen, cut them into pieces, and sent the pieces throughout the territory of Israel, declaring that whoever did not come to follow Saul and Samuel into battle would face the same fate as the oxen. This drastic and symbolic act served to galvanize the people of Israel to rally behind Saul and Samuel in defense of their brethren in Jabesh Gilead.
This passage illustrates the importance of unity and solidarity among God’s people in times of crisis. Saul’s leadership in uniting the tribes of Israel for a common cause reflects the biblical theme of the strength and protection found in coming together as a community under the guidance of God-appointed leaders. It also emphasizes the necessity of swift and decisive action when facing threats to the well-being and security of God’s children. This event foreshadows the challenges and victories that Saul will face as king, revealing his potential for both effective leadership and moments of disobedience in a broader context. It sets the stage for Saul’s reign and offers insights into his character, strengths, and weaknesses. This passage serves as a reminder that leadership, even when anointed by God, requires humility, courage, and a deep sense of responsibility towards those under one’s care.
The story of Saul’s response to the crisis at Jabesh Gilead can be viewed as a symbolic representation of the battles and trials that believers face in the spiritual realm. It reminds us of the importance of being vigilant, standing firm in our faith, and being willing to take a bold stand against the forces of evil that seek to oppress and destroy. Believers are called to stand up against spiritual adversaries with the strength and power of God’s Spirit working within them, just as Saul rose to the occasion to deliver the people of Jabesh Gilead from the Ammonites.
1 Samuel 11:12-15
The conclusion of an important event in the life of King Saul is seen in 1 Samuel 11:12-15. This section describes how the Israelites stood with Saul against the Ammonites after Saul had displayed his leadership in a time of crisis. The verse specifically mentions how the people reaffirmed Saul as their king by saying, “Who is it that said, ‘Shall Saul reign over us?’ Bring those men to us so that we may put them to death.” This reaction from the people highlights their acceptance of Saul’s kingship, especially after his victory in battle.
The significance of this passage lies in the confirmation of Saul’s kingship. Earlier in 1 Samuel 8, the Israelites had demanded a king like other nations, and God granted their request by appointing Saul as the first king of Israel. Saul’s journey as king is a complex one, marked by moments of obedience and disobedience to God. Saul displayed courage and military prowess in defeating the Ammonites in this particular event, thereby earning the trust and loyalty of the people.
The people’s response in verse 12 reflects a shift in their attitude towards Saul. Initially, there were those who doubted Saul’s ability to rule over them. However, Saul’s successful leadership in battle united the people behind him and silenced those who had questioned his kingship. This turning point not only solidified Saul’s position as king but also demonstrated God’s sovereignty in choosing and anointing Saul for this role.
This passage underscores the theme of leadership throughout the Bible. It shows the importance of a leader’s actions in gaining the trust and support of the people. Additionally, it serves as a reminder of the consequences of questioning or rebelling against God-appointed authority figures. Saul’s victory over the Ammonites not only secured a military triumph but also solidified his legitimacy as the chosen king of Israel.
Furthermore, this narrative sets the stage for Saul’s future reign, which will be marked by both successes and failures as he navigates his responsibilities as king. Saul’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of remaining faithful to God’s commands and seeking His guidance in all matters of leadership. This theme is reiterated throughout the Bible, with examples like David, who, despite his own shortcomings, is described as a man after God’s own heart due to his obedience and repentance. Saul’s leadership skills and the people’s acceptance of him as their ruler are showcased in a pivotal moment in his kingship in 1 Samuel 11:12-15. This passage speaks to the complexities of leadership, the consequences of doubting God’s chosen leaders, and the importance of faithfulness in fulfilling one’s divine calling.
After 1 Samuel 11
The people of Jabesh Gilead had been in a dire situation, facing the threat of the Ammonites. But the Lord had heard their cries and raised up Saul to deliver them. With the Spirit of the Lord upon him, Saul had rallied the Israelites and led them to a decisive victory. The people were overjoyed and ready to make Saul their king.
Yet, as the sun set on this day of triumph, a new challenge loomed on the horizon. For the enemies of Israel would not rest, and the road ahead would be filled with both triumph and tribulation. The people would need to remain steadfast in their faith, for the Lord’s plan for His chosen king was only just beginning to unfold.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.