Then Nahash the Ammonite came up
Nahash, whose name means "serpent" or "snake," was a king of the Ammonites, a people descended from Lot (Genesis 19:38). The Ammonites were often in conflict with Israel, as seen in Judges 11:4-33. Nahash's aggression reflects the ongoing hostilities between Israel and its neighbors. His actions here set the stage for Saul's rise as a leader and king of Israel.

and laid siege to Jabesh-gilead.
Jabesh-gilead was a city located east of the Jordan River in the territory of Gilead. It had historical ties to Israel, as seen in Judges 21:8-14, where the men of Jabesh-gilead were spared during a conflict with the other tribes of Israel. The siege indicates a strategic move by Nahash to control a significant area and exert influence over Israel. The city's location made it vulnerable to attacks from eastern tribes like the Ammonites.

All the men of Jabesh said to him,
The men of Jabesh-gilead, facing a formidable enemy, sought to negotiate rather than face destruction. This reflects the dire situation and the desperation of the inhabitants. Their response also highlights the lack of strong central leadership in Israel at the time, which Saul's eventual kingship would address.

“Make a treaty with us,
The request for a treaty indicates a willingness to submit to Nahash's terms to avoid annihilation. In ancient Near Eastern culture, treaties often involved vassalage, where the weaker party would serve the stronger. This plea underscores the vulnerability of Jabesh-gilead and the threat posed by Nahash.

and we will serve you.”
The offer to serve Nahash suggests a readiness to become vassals, which would involve paying tribute and possibly providing military support. This submission would have been humiliating for Israel, highlighting the need for a unifying leader. The situation foreshadows Saul's role as a deliverer, a type of Christ, who would save his people from oppression.

But Nahash the Ammonite replied
Nahash was the king of the Ammonites, a people descended from Lot, Abraham's nephew (Genesis 19:36-38). The Ammonites were often in conflict with Israel, as seen in Judges 11 and 2 Samuel 10. Nahash's name means "serpent," which may symbolize his cunning and ruthless nature. His response indicates a position of power and dominance over the Israelites.

I will make a treaty with you on one condition
In the ancient Near East, treaties were common between nations, often involving terms of peace or subjugation. Nahash's offer of a treaty was not one of mutual benefit but rather a demand for submission. This reflects the harsh realities of ancient warfare and diplomacy, where stronger nations imposed severe terms on the defeated.

that I may put out everyone’s right eye
Blinding the right eye was a tactic used to incapacitate warriors, as the right eye was crucial for aiming in battle, especially for archers. This act would render the men of Israel ineffective in combat, ensuring their subjugation. It was a form of humiliation and control, demonstrating Nahash's cruelty and desire to weaken Israel militarily.

and bring reproach upon all Israel
The act of blinding would not only physically impair the Israelites but also bring shame and disgrace upon the nation. In the ancient world, honor and reputation were of utmost importance. This reproach would serve as a psychological weapon, demoralizing the people and undermining their unity and identity. The threat of reproach also highlights the spiritual dimension, as Israel was meant to be a light to the nations, and such humiliation would tarnish their witness.

"Hold off for seven days," replied the elders of Jabesh
The elders of Jabesh are negotiating with Nahash the Ammonite, who has besieged their city. The request for a seven-day reprieve reflects a desperate situation, as they seek time to find a deliverer. The number seven often signifies completeness or divine intervention in the Bible, suggesting a hope for God's deliverance. The elders' role indicates a structured leadership within the city, typical of ancient Near Eastern societies.

"and let us send messengers throughout Israel."
This phrase highlights the tribal confederation of Israel before the monarchy was fully established. The elders' decision to send messengers underscores the lack of a centralized government and the reliance on tribal unity for defense. It also reflects the communication methods of the time, where messengers were crucial for relaying urgent news across distances. This action sets the stage for Saul's rise as a unifying leader.

"If there is no one to save us,"
The elders express a conditional hope, acknowledging their vulnerability. The phrase "to save us" is significant, as it echoes the recurring theme of deliverance in the Old Testament, where God raises leaders to rescue His people. This anticipates the role of judges and foreshadows the coming of a king who will provide salvation, ultimately pointing to Jesus Christ as the ultimate Savior.

"we will surrender to you."
The willingness to surrender indicates the dire circumstances faced by Jabesh-gilead. Surrender would mean subjugation and possibly severe consequences, such as enslavement or mutilation, as Nahash had threatened to gouge out the right eyes of the men. This reflects the brutal realities of ancient warfare and the harsh terms often imposed by victors. The elders' statement underscores their desperation and the critical need for divine intervention or a human deliverer.

When the messengers came to Gibeah of Saul
Gibeah, located in the territory of Benjamin, was the hometown of Saul, Israel's first king. This city held significant importance as Saul's base of operations. The mention of "Gibeah of Saul" highlights Saul's association with the city, emphasizing his leadership role. Historically, Gibeah was a strategic location, and its mention here underscores the urgency of the message being delivered. The messengers' arrival at Gibeah indicates the centralization of leadership and communication in Israel during this period.

and relayed these words in the hearing of the people
The messengers brought a dire report from Jabesh-gilead, a city under threat from Nahash the Ammonite. The public announcement of these words suggests a communal approach to problem-solving, typical in ancient Israelite society. The hearing of the people implies that the message was intended to mobilize a collective response. This communal aspect is reflective of the tribal confederation of Israel before the establishment of a centralized monarchy.

they all wept aloud
The people's reaction of weeping aloud indicates the gravity of the situation. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, public expressions of grief and distress were common in response to national crises. This emotional response reflects the Israelites' fear and desperation, as they faced the threat of subjugation and humiliation by the Ammonites. The communal lamentation also serves to unify the people in their distress, setting the stage for Saul's subsequent rise to leadership and deliverance of Jabesh-gilead. This moment foreshadows the need for a strong, divinely appointed leader, a role Saul is about to fulfill, and ultimately points to the greater deliverance found in Jesus Christ, the ultimate King and Savior.

Just then Saul was returning from the field, behind his oxen.
This phrase highlights Saul's humble beginnings and his connection to agrarian life, reflecting the simplicity and humility often associated with biblical leaders before their rise to power. Saul, though anointed as king, was still engaged in everyday labor, indicating the transitional period of Israel from a theocracy to a monarchy. This setting underscores the contrast between Saul's current life and his future role as king. The use of oxen for plowing fields was common in ancient Israel, emphasizing the agricultural society of the time.

“What troubles the people?” asked Saul.
Saul's inquiry demonstrates his concern for the people, a quality expected of a leader. This moment foreshadows his role as a protector and deliverer of Israel. The question also indicates Saul's initial ignorance of the crisis, suggesting a disconnect between him and the political affairs of the nation, which may reflect the decentralized nature of Israelite society before the establishment of a strong monarchy.

“Why are they weeping?”
The weeping of the people signifies a communal distress, often seen in the Old Testament as a response to threats or calamities. This emotional reaction is indicative of the gravity of the situation faced by the Israelites, specifically the threat from Nahash the Ammonite. Weeping in biblical texts often precedes divine intervention or the rise of a deliverer, setting the stage for Saul's leadership.

And they relayed to him the words of the men from Jabesh.
The men from Jabesh Gilead were under siege by Nahash the Ammonite, who threatened to gouge out the right eye of every man, a tactic meant to disgrace and incapacitate them. This phrase connects to the broader narrative of Israel's need for a king to unify and protect them from external threats. The mention of Jabesh Gilead also ties back to the tribe of Benjamin, Saul's own tribe, as the people of Jabesh had previously shown kindness to the Benjamites (Judges 21:8-14), creating a personal connection for Saul. This moment serves as a catalyst for Saul's emergence as a leader, fulfilling his role as the anointed king to deliver Israel.

When Saul heard their words
This phrase refers to the report brought to Saul about the plight of the people of Jabesh-gilead, who were threatened by Nahash the Ammonite. The context is significant as it highlights the early days of Saul's reign as king of Israel. The people of Jabesh-gilead were in a desperate situation, and their plea for help reached Saul, who was still in the process of establishing his authority. This moment is pivotal as it demonstrates Saul's initial response to his kingly duties and the expectations of leadership in ancient Israel.

the Spirit of God rushed upon him
The phrase indicates a divine empowerment that Saul received, which is a recurring theme in the Old Testament when God equips individuals for specific tasks. This rushing of the Spirit signifies God's direct intervention and approval of Saul's actions. It parallels other instances in the Bible, such as the Spirit coming upon Samson (Judges 14:6) and David (1 Samuel 16:13), indicating a special anointing for leadership and deliverance. This divine empowerment is crucial for understanding the theocratic nature of Israel's monarchy, where the king was expected to act as God's representative.

and he burned with great anger
Saul's anger is described as a righteous indignation, fueled by the Spirit of God. This anger is not merely human emotion but a reflection of God's own displeasure with the oppression of His people. It is reminiscent of the anger of Moses when he saw the Israelites worshiping the golden calf (Exodus 32:19) and Jesus' anger in the temple (Mark 11:15-17). This righteous anger propels Saul into action, marking a decisive moment in his leadership. It underscores the biblical principle that anger, when aligned with God's purposes, can lead to justice and deliverance.

He took a pair of oxen
In ancient Israel, oxen were valuable assets, essential for agriculture and transportation. The use of oxen here signifies the seriousness of the situation. Saul's choice to use oxen highlights the urgency and importance of the call to action.

cut them into pieces
This act is reminiscent of the Levite's concubine in Judges 19:29, where a similar method was used to rally the tribes of Israel. It was a dramatic and shocking gesture meant to convey the gravity of the situation and to ensure a swift response from the people.

and sent them by messengers throughout the land of Israel
The use of messengers indicates the widespread nature of the call. It reflects the decentralized communication methods of the time, relying on human couriers to spread important messages across the tribal territories of Israel.

proclaiming, “This is what will be done to the oxen of anyone who does not march behind Saul and Samuel.”
This proclamation served as both a warning and a rallying cry. Saul invokes his authority as king and aligns himself with Samuel, the respected prophet, to legitimize his command. The threat of destruction to one's property was a powerful motivator in a society where livestock was a measure of wealth and survival.

Then the terror of the LORD fell upon the people
This phrase indicates divine intervention, suggesting that God instilled a sense of fear and urgency in the hearts of the Israelites. It echoes the concept of the "fear of the LORD" found throughout scripture, which often leads to obedience and reverence (Proverbs 1:7).

and they came out together as one man
The unity of the people in response to Saul's call is significant. It demonstrates a collective resolve and solidarity, crucial for the success of their military endeavors. This unity can be seen as a precursor to the later unification of Israel under David's reign, foreshadowing the ideal of a united kingdom.

And when Saul numbered them at Bezek
Saul, newly anointed as king, demonstrates his leadership by organizing the Israelites for battle. Bezek is a location in the territory of Israel, possibly near the Jordan River, which served as a strategic gathering point. This act of numbering the troops reflects a common military practice in ancient times, emphasizing the importance of preparation and order before engaging in warfare. The gathering at Bezek signifies unity among the tribes under Saul's leadership, a crucial step in consolidating his kingship.

there were 300,000 Israelites
The large number of Israelites indicates a significant mobilization of the people, showing widespread support for Saul's leadership. This figure highlights the potential military strength of Israel when united. The mention of Israelites as a collective group underscores the unity among the northern tribes, which was essential for the defense against external threats. This unity is reminiscent of earlier times when the tribes came together under leaders like Joshua and the judges.

and 30,000 men of Judah
The specific mention of Judah, separate from the other tribes, reflects the distinct identity and prominence of the tribe. Judah's involvement is crucial, as it foreshadows the future importance of this tribe in Israel's history, particularly with the rise of David, who would come from Judah. The distinction between the Israelites and the men of Judah may also hint at the eventual division of the kingdom into Israel and Judah. This separation is significant in biblical prophecy and the lineage of Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the Lion of the tribe of Judah, fulfilling the messianic promise.

So they said to the messengers who had come
This phrase refers to the response of Saul and the people of Israel to the urgent plea for help from the men of Jabesh-gilead. The messengers had been sent by the besieged city to seek aid against the Ammonites. This reflects the ancient practice of sending envoys to communicate between cities and leaders, a common method of diplomacy and warfare in the ancient Near East.

Tell the men of Jabesh-gilead
Jabesh-gilead was a city located east of the Jordan River in the territory of Gilead. It had historical ties to the tribe of Benjamin, as seen in Judges 21, where the men of Jabesh-gilead were spared during a conflict involving the Benjamites. This connection may have influenced Saul, a Benjamite, to respond swiftly to their call for help.

‘Deliverance will be yours tomorrow
This promise of deliverance is significant as it demonstrates Saul's confidence in God's ability to save His people. It echoes the theme of divine intervention found throughout the Old Testament, where God delivers Israel from their enemies. This assurance of salvation foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who provides spiritual salvation to all who believe.

by the time the sun is hot.’
The phrase "by the time the sun is hot" indicates that the deliverance would occur by midday, emphasizing the immediacy and certainty of the promised salvation. This specific timing underscores the urgency and the miraculous nature of the deliverance, as it would happen swiftly and decisively.

And when the messengers relayed this to the men of Jabesh, they rejoiced.
The reaction of the men of Jabesh-gilead highlights the relief and hope that comes with the promise of deliverance. Their rejoicing is a natural response to the good news of salvation, paralleling the joy experienced by believers who receive the good news of the Gospel. This joy is a recurring theme in Scripture, reflecting the deep gratitude and celebration that accompanies God's saving acts.

Then the men of Jabesh said to Nahash
The men of Jabesh refer to the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead, a city east of the Jordan River. This city had historical ties to the tribe of Benjamin, as seen in Judges 21:8-14, where the men of Jabesh-gilead were spared during a conflict involving the tribe of Benjamin. Nahash was the king of the Ammonites, a people descended from Lot (Genesis 19:38). The Ammonites were often in conflict with Israel, and Nahash's aggression towards Jabesh-gilead reflects ongoing hostilities.

“Tomorrow we will come out
This phrase indicates a strategic decision by the men of Jabesh. They had been besieged by Nahash and were seeking a way to avoid the brutal terms of surrender he had initially proposed, which included gouging out the right eye of every man (1 Samuel 11:2). By saying "tomorrow," they were buying time, as they had secretly sent messengers to Saul for help (1 Samuel 11:3-4).

and you can do with us whatever seems good to you.”
This statement is a form of submission, but it is also a ruse. The men of Jabesh were not truly surrendering; they were stalling for time until Saul could arrive with reinforcements. This tactic reflects the desperate situation they were in and their hope for deliverance. The phrase "whatever seems good to you" is a common biblical expression of submission, but in this context, it is part of a larger plan for salvation. Saul's subsequent victory over the Ammonites (1 Samuel 11:11) is a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate victory over sin and death, as Saul acts as a deliverer for his people, a type of Christ.

The next day Saul organized the troops into three divisions
Saul's leadership is evident as he takes decisive action to organize the troops. This reflects the military strategies seen in other parts of the Old Testament, such as Gideon's division of his men in Judges 7:16. The number three often symbolizes completeness and divine perfection in the Bible, suggesting that Saul's plan was divinely inspired. This moment marks Saul's first major military campaign as king, highlighting his role as a leader chosen by God.

and during the morning watch they invaded the camp of the Ammonites
The morning watch refers to the last third of the night, from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m., a time when enemies would be least prepared for an attack. This strategic timing shows Saul's wisdom and understanding of warfare. The Ammonites, descendants of Lot (Genesis 19:38), were long-standing enemies of Israel, often representing opposition to God's people. This invasion signifies a turning point where Israel begins to assert itself against its oppressors.

and slaughtered them, until the hottest part of the day
The phrase indicates a complete and overwhelming victory for Saul and the Israelites. The battle lasting until the hottest part of the day suggests both the intensity and the thoroughness of the conflict. This victory can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to deliver His people from their enemies, as seen in Deuteronomy 20:4. It also foreshadows the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death.

And the survivors were so scattered that no two of them were left together
This scattering of the Ammonites signifies a total rout, emphasizing the completeness of Israel's victory. It reflects the biblical theme of God scattering His enemies, as seen in Psalm 68:1. The disarray among the Ammonites can be seen as a divine intervention, ensuring that they could not regroup or pose a future threat. This scattering also prefigures the final defeat of all opposition to God's kingdom, as prophesied in Revelation.

Then the people said to Samuel
This phrase indicates the people's recognition of Samuel's authority as a prophet and judge in Israel. Samuel was a key figure in transitioning Israel from a theocracy to a monarchy. His role as a mediator between God and the people is crucial, as seen in 1 Samuel 7:15-17, where he judged Israel all the days of his life. The people's approach to Samuel shows their respect for his leadership and spiritual guidance.

“Who said that Saul should not reign over us?
This question reflects the people's support for Saul after his victory over the Ammonites, as described earlier in 1 Samuel 11. Initially, there was skepticism about Saul's ability to lead (1 Samuel 10:27), but his successful military campaign solidified his position as king. This moment highlights the shift in public opinion and the acceptance of Saul's kingship, fulfilling God's earlier directive through Samuel (1 Samuel 9:16-17).

Bring those men here
The demand to bring the dissenters forward shows the people's desire for unity and the elimination of opposition to Saul's rule. This reflects the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, where loyalty to the king was paramount for national stability. The call for accountability is consistent with the biblical principle of dealing with rebellion, as seen in Deuteronomy 17:12, which prescribes consequences for those who defy authority.

so we can kill them!”
The call for execution underscores the seriousness of rebellion against God's anointed king. In the ancient Near Eastern context, treason was often met with severe punishment to deter others from similar actions. This reflects the biblical theme of divine justice and the protection of God's chosen leaders. However, Saul's response in the following verses, where he spares the dissenters, foreshadows the mercy and grace that are fully realized in the New Testament through Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness and reconciliation.

But Saul ordered
Saul, the first king of Israel, is acting in his capacity as a leader. This moment follows his victory over the Ammonites, demonstrating his authority and decision-making power. Saul's leadership is crucial as Israel transitions from a theocracy to a monarchy. His order reflects his role in unifying the tribes of Israel under a central authority.

“No one shall be put to death this day
This phrase highlights Saul's decision to show mercy. After the victory, there might have been calls for retribution against those who doubted his kingship or opposed him. Saul's choice to spare lives is significant, as it sets a tone of forgiveness and unity rather than division and vengeance. This act of clemency can be seen as a reflection of God's mercy, a theme prevalent throughout the Bible.

for today the LORD has worked salvation in Israel.”
Saul attributes the victory to the LORD, acknowledging divine intervention rather than claiming personal glory. This recognition of God's hand in their success is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where victories are often seen as acts of divine salvation. The term "salvation" here is not just military but also spiritual, as it reinforces the idea that God is the true deliverer of Israel. This foreshadows the ultimate salvation brought by Jesus Christ, who is often seen as the fulfillment of God's promise to save His people. Saul's acknowledgment serves as a reminder of the importance of giving glory to God for victories and successes.

Then Samuel said to the people
Samuel, the last judge and a prophet of Israel, plays a pivotal role in the transition from the period of judges to the monarchy. His leadership is divinely appointed, and he acts as a mediator between God and the people. This phrase highlights Samuel's authority and his role in guiding the Israelites according to God's will. His leadership is crucial in uniting the tribes and establishing a centralized government under a king.

“Come, let us go to Gilgal
Gilgal holds significant historical and spiritual importance for Israel. It is the first campsite of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land (Joshua 4:19-20). It serves as a place of renewal and covenant, where the Israelites reaffirm their commitment to God. The choice of Gilgal for this event underscores its symbolic role as a place of new beginnings and divine encounters. It is also where Saul was previously confirmed as king (1 Samuel 10:8), making it a fitting location for renewing the kingship.

and renew the kingship there.”
The renewal of the kingship signifies a reaffirmation of Saul's role as king, following his victory over the Ammonites. This act of renewal is not merely political but also spiritual, as it involves the people's recommitment to God's chosen leader. It reflects the need for unity and obedience to God's ordained authority. The concept of renewal is echoed in other scriptures, such as the renewal of the covenant in Joshua 24 and the renewal of the heart in Ezekiel 36:26. This renewal can also be seen as a type of Christ, who brings a new covenant and renews the relationship between God and His people.

So all the people went to Gilgal
Gilgal holds significant historical and spiritual importance in Israel's history. It was the first campsite of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land (Joshua 4:19-20). This location was a place of renewal and covenant, where the Israelites reaffirmed their commitment to God. The gathering at Gilgal for Saul's confirmation as king underscores its role as a site for national unity and spiritual dedication.

and confirmed Saul as king
This event marks the formal recognition of Saul's kingship by the people of Israel. Although Saul had been anointed by Samuel earlier (1 Samuel 10:1), this public confirmation solidified his role as the leader. The act of confirmation by the people highlights the importance of communal acceptance and support for leadership in Israel. It also reflects the transition from a theocratic system led by judges to a monarchy.

in the presence of the LORD
The phrase emphasizes that the confirmation of Saul's kingship was not merely a political act but a spiritual one, conducted with divine oversight. The presence of the LORD signifies His approval and blessing on the proceedings. This aligns with the biblical principle that true leadership is established under God's authority and guidance.

There they sacrificed peace offerings before the LORD
Peace offerings, or fellowship offerings, were a type of sacrifice in the Old Testament that symbolized reconciliation and thanksgiving to God (Leviticus 3). By offering these sacrifices, the Israelites expressed gratitude and sought to maintain a harmonious relationship with God. This act of worship at Saul's confirmation signifies the desire for divine favor and peace under his reign.

and Saul and all the Israelites rejoiced greatly
The great rejoicing indicates the collective relief and joy of the Israelites in having a king to lead them, especially after the recent victory over the Ammonites (1 Samuel 11:11). This joy reflects the hope and optimism for a united and prosperous future under Saul's leadership. It also underscores the communal aspect of Israel's identity, where national events were celebrated together in the context of worship and thanksgiving.