1 Samuel 31
Berean Study Bible

Saul’s Overthrow and Death

Now the Philistines fought against Israel
The Philistines were a significant adversarial force against Israel throughout the Old Testament. They were a seafaring people who settled along the coastal regions of Canaan. Their conflict with Israel is a recurring theme, highlighting the ongoing struggle between the Israelites and their pagan neighbors. This battle is part of a larger narrative of Israel's struggle to maintain its identity and faithfulness to God amidst external pressures. The Philistines' advanced military technology, including iron weaponry, often gave them an advantage over the Israelites.

and the men of Israel fled before them
The Israelites' retreat indicates a significant defeat, reflecting a moment of crisis for the nation. This phrase underscores the demoralization and fear that had gripped the Israelite army. Historically, this defeat can be attributed to the lack of strong leadership, as King Saul's reign was marked by disobedience to God, leading to divine disfavor. The Israelites' flight is reminiscent of other instances in the Bible where God's people faced consequences for their unfaithfulness, such as in the battles described in the Book of Judges.

and many fell slain on Mount Gilboa
Mount Gilboa is a significant geographical location in the biblical narrative. It is situated in the northern part of Israel, near the Jezreel Valley. The mountain's mention here is crucial as it becomes the site of King Saul's death, marking the end of his troubled reign. The defeat at Mount Gilboa fulfills Samuel's prophecy of Saul's downfall due to his disobedience to God (1 Samuel 28:19). This event sets the stage for David's rise to kingship, a pivotal moment in Israel's history. Theologically, the fall of Saul and his army serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commands.

The Philistines hotly pursued Saul and his sons
The Philistines were a significant adversary of Israel, often engaging in battles with them. This pursuit indicates a relentless and aggressive military strategy. The Philistines were known for their advanced weaponry and military tactics, which were superior to those of the Israelites at the time. This pursuit is a culmination of the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines, which is a recurring theme throughout the books of Samuel. The Philistines' pursuit of Saul and his sons signifies the intensity of the battle and the desperation of the situation for Israel. This moment fulfills Samuel's prophecy to Saul about the impending defeat and death (1 Samuel 28:19).

and they killed Saul’s sons Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua
The death of Saul's sons marks a significant turning point in Israel's history. Jonathan, in particular, was a beloved figure known for his deep friendship with David and his loyalty to his father, Saul. His death is a poignant moment, highlighting the tragic consequences of Saul's disobedience to God. Abinadab and Malchishua, though less prominently featured in the biblical narrative, represent the end of Saul's lineage and the fulfillment of God's judgment against Saul's house. The loss of Saul's sons also paves the way for David's rise to kingship, as the removal of Saul's heirs eliminates potential rivals to the throne. This event is a sobering reminder of the cost of disobedience and the fulfillment of divine prophecy.

When the battle intensified against Saul
This phrase indicates a turning point in the battle between the Israelites and the Philistines. The Philistines were a constant threat to Israel during Saul's reign, often engaging in warfare. The intensification of the battle suggests a shift in momentum, likely due to the Philistines' superior military tactics and weaponry, such as their use of iron chariots and advanced metallurgy. Saul's leadership had been faltering due to his disobedience to God, as seen in earlier chapters, which may have contributed to the Israelites' disadvantage. This moment fulfills Samuel's prophecy that Saul's kingdom would not endure (1 Samuel 13:14).

the archers overtook him
The mention of archers highlights the tactical advantage the Philistines had over the Israelites. Archery was a significant component of ancient warfare, allowing for attacks from a distance. The Philistines' ability to deploy skilled archers suggests their military prowess and strategic planning. This detail also underscores Saul's vulnerability and the dire situation for the Israelite forces. The use of archers may symbolize the inescapable judgment that Saul faced, as he could not evade the consequences of his earlier disobedience to God.

and wounded him critically
Saul's critical wounding signifies the beginning of the end for his reign and life. This moment is pivotal, as it leads to the eventual rise of David, whom God had chosen to be king. Saul's injury can be seen as a direct result of his failure to fully obey God's commands, particularly in his incomplete destruction of the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15). The critical nature of his wound also reflects the spiritual state of Israel at the time, as they were in need of a leader who would follow God's will wholeheartedly. Saul's demise foreshadows the coming of a new covenant under David, a type of Christ, who would establish a kingdom characterized by obedience and faithfulness to God.

Then Saul said to his armor-bearer,
Saul, the first king of Israel, is in a desperate situation during the battle against the Philistines. The role of an armor-bearer was to carry the king's armor and assist him in battle, indicating a position of trust and loyalty. This moment highlights Saul's vulnerability and the breakdown of his leadership.

“Draw your sword and run me through with it,
Saul requests his armor-bearer to kill him to avoid capture. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern honor-shame culture, where being captured by enemies was seen as a fate worse than death. Saul's request also shows his fear of humiliation and torture at the hands of the Philistines.

or these uncircumcised men will come and run me through and torture me!”
The term "uncircumcised" is used to describe the Philistines, emphasizing their status as non-covenant people, contrasting them with the Israelites who were marked by the covenant of circumcision. This highlights the religious and cultural enmity between the two groups. Saul's fear of torture underscores the brutal practices of ancient warfare.

But his armor-bearer was terrified and refused to do it.
The armor-bearer's refusal can be seen as an act of reverence for the king, as well as fear of the consequences of killing the Lord's anointed. This reflects the deep respect for God's chosen leaders, despite Saul's failures. It also shows the moral dilemma faced by those serving under flawed leadership.

So Saul took his own sword and fell on it.
Saul's suicide marks a tragic end to his reign, fulfilling Samuel's prophecy of his downfall. This act of self-destruction is a culmination of Saul's disobedience and rejection by God. It contrasts with the hope and redemption found in Jesus Christ, who, unlike Saul, was obedient unto death and brought life through His sacrifice. Saul's death also sets the stage for David's rise to kingship, aligning with God's sovereign plan for Israel.

When his armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead
The role of an armor-bearer in ancient Israel was to assist a warrior in battle, carrying his weapons and providing support. This position required loyalty and bravery. The armor-bearer’s actions reflect the deep bond and duty to his master, King Saul. The death of Saul, Israel's first king, marked a significant turning point in Israelite history, leading to the rise of David as king. Saul's death fulfilled the prophecy given by Samuel in 1 Samuel 28:19, where it was foretold that Saul and his sons would die in battle. The armor-bearer's reaction underscores the gravity of the moment and the loyalty expected in such roles.

he too fell on his own sword and died with him
The act of falling on one's sword was a method of suicide in ancient times, often seen as a way to avoid capture or disgrace. This action by the armor-bearer can be seen as an act of loyalty, choosing death over living without his master. It also reflects the cultural values of honor and loyalty prevalent in the ancient Near East. The armor-bearer's death alongside Saul signifies the end of an era and the tragic downfall of Saul's reign. This moment can be contrasted with the New Testament, where Jesus Christ, the ultimate King, offers life and hope through His resurrection, rather than death and despair. The armor-bearer's choice highlights the despair and hopelessness that can accompany the loss of a leader, contrasting with the hope found in Christ.

So Saul
Saul was the first king of Israel, anointed by the prophet Samuel. His reign marked the transition from a theocratic rule by judges to a monarchy. Saul's kingship began with promise but was marred by disobedience to God's commands, leading to his eventual rejection by God (1 Samuel 15:26). His death signifies the end of his troubled reign and the divine judgment upon his disobedience.

his three sons
Saul's sons, Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua, also perished in this battle. Jonathan, in particular, was a close friend of David and known for his loyalty and faithfulness (1 Samuel 18:1-4). The death of Saul's sons not only marks the end of Saul's lineage but also clears the path for David's ascension to the throne, fulfilling God's plan for Israel's leadership.

his armor-bearer
The armor-bearer was a trusted military aide responsible for carrying the king's armor and providing protection. The death of Saul's armor-bearer alongside him highlights the loyalty and duty expected in such a role. This also reflects the tragic end of Saul's reign, as even his closest aides could not save him from his fate.

and all his men
The phrase indicates the complete defeat of Saul's forces by the Philistines. This loss underscores the consequences of Saul's disobedience and the fulfillment of Samuel's prophecy regarding the downfall of Saul's house (1 Samuel 28:19). It also demonstrates the Philistines' military strength and the vulnerability of Israel without divine favor.

died together
The collective death of Saul, his sons, and his men signifies the totality of the defeat and the end of Saul's dynasty. This event is a turning point in Israel's history, paving the way for David's kingship. It also serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commands.

that same day
The immediacy of the phrase emphasizes the sudden and complete nature of the defeat. It fulfills the prophecy given by Samuel to Saul, indicating that the events were part of God's sovereign plan (1 Samuel 28:19). This timing also highlights the urgency of God's judgment and the swift transition of power to David, who was anointed as the future king of Israel.

The Philistines Possess the Towns

When the Israelites along the valley and those on the other side of the Jordan saw that the army of Israel had fled
This phrase highlights the geographical setting of the battle, indicating the widespread impact of the defeat. The valley likely refers to the Jezreel Valley, a strategic location in northern Israel. The mention of "the other side of the Jordan" suggests the eastern tribes of Israel, such as Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who were settled there. The flight of the army signifies a complete military collapse, which would have been demoralizing for the Israelites and indicative of a significant loss of leadership and morale.

and that Saul and his sons had died
The death of Saul and his sons, including Jonathan, marks the end of Saul's reign and the beginning of a transition in Israel's monarchy. Saul's death fulfills the prophecy given by Samuel in 1 Samuel 28:19, where he foretold that Saul and his sons would die in battle. This event also sets the stage for David's rise to kingship, as Saul's death removes the primary obstacle to David's anointing as king over Israel.

they abandoned their cities and ran away
The abandonment of cities reflects the fear and panic among the Israelites following the defeat. In ancient times, cities were centers of security and refuge, so leaving them indicates a severe threat to their safety. This reaction underscores the vulnerability of Israel without strong leadership and the immediate threat posed by the Philistines.

So the Philistines came and occupied their cities
The occupation of Israelite cities by the Philistines demonstrates the shift in power and control in the region. The Philistines, long-time adversaries of Israel, took advantage of the situation to expand their territory and influence. This occupation would have had significant cultural and religious implications, as the Philistines brought their own practices and deities into the conquered areas, challenging the Israelites' covenantal relationship with Yahweh. This event foreshadows the ongoing struggle between the Israelites and the Philistines, which continues into the reign of David, who eventually subdues them.

The next day
This phrase indicates the events occurred immediately following the battle between the Israelites and the Philistines. The timing is significant as it shows the Philistines' swift action to claim victory and plunder the battlefield. In ancient warfare, the day after a battle was often dedicated to collecting spoils and dealing with the dead.

when the Philistines came to strip the dead
Stripping the dead was a common practice in ancient warfare, where victors would take armor, weapons, and valuables from the fallen. This act not only provided material gain but also served as a symbolic gesture of dominance over the defeated. The Philistines, traditional enemies of Israel, were known for their military prowess and often engaged in such practices.

they found Saul and his three sons
The discovery of Saul and his sons' bodies highlights the tragic end of Israel's first king and his heirs. Saul's death marked the end of his troubled reign, which was characterized by disobedience to God and conflict with David. The death of his sons, including Jonathan, David's close friend, underscores the complete defeat of Saul's line at this point in the narrative.

fallen on Mount Gilboa
Mount Gilboa is a significant geographical location in the biblical narrative. It is situated in northern Israel and served as the backdrop for this pivotal battle. The defeat at Mount Gilboa fulfilled Samuel's prophecy of Saul's downfall (1 Samuel 28:19). The location later became a symbol of mourning and loss for Israel, as seen in David's lament in 2 Samuel 1:21, where he curses the mountain for the tragedy that occurred there.

They cut off Saul’s head
The act of decapitating a defeated enemy was a common practice in ancient warfare, symbolizing total victory and humiliation of the vanquished. This mirrors the earlier event in 1 Samuel 17:51, where David cut off Goliath's head, signifying triumph over the Philistines. The beheading of Saul, Israel's first king, marks a tragic end to his reign and serves as a stark contrast to the earlier victory over Goliath.

stripped off his armor
Removing Saul's armor was not only a practical act of taking spoils of war but also a symbolic gesture of stripping away his royal and military authority. Armor in biblical times was a sign of strength and protection, and its removal indicated Saul's vulnerability and defeat. This act also recalls David's refusal to wear Saul's armor in 1 Samuel 17:38-39, highlighting the difference between Saul's reliance on physical protection and David's faith in God.

and sent messengers throughout the land of the Philistines
The Philistines were a significant adversary of Israel, often at war with them throughout the period of the Judges and the early monarchy. By sending messengers, the Philistines sought to spread the news of their victory, boosting their morale and asserting their dominance over Israel. This act of communication underscores the political and military rivalry between the two nations.

to proclaim the news in the temples of their idols
The Philistines' proclamation in their temples indicates the religious dimension of their victory. They attributed their success to their gods, such as Dagon, whom they believed had triumphed over the God of Israel. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern belief that military victories were also victories of one deity over another. The desecration of Saul's body in their temples contrasts with the reverence shown to the Ark of the Covenant, which had previously caused distress in Philistine territory (1 Samuel 5).

and among their people
By spreading the news among their people, the Philistines aimed to unify and encourage their nation, celebrating their triumph over Israel. This public announcement served to reinforce their cultural identity and pride, while simultaneously demoralizing the Israelites. The dissemination of such news would have been a powerful tool in maintaining Philistine hegemony in the region.

They put his armor in the temple of the Ashtoreths
This phrase indicates the Philistines' practice of dedicating spoils of war to their deities, in this case, the Ashtoreths, which were Canaanite goddesses associated with war and fertility. This act was a way to honor their gods for victory and to humiliate the defeated Israelites by showing that their God was powerless against the Philistine deities. The temple of the Ashtoreths would have been a significant religious site, possibly located in one of the major Philistine cities such as Ashdod, Ashkelon, or Gaza. This act parallels the earlier capture of the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines, which they placed in the temple of Dagon (1 Samuel 5:2). The desecration of Saul's armor in this manner underscores the spiritual and national defeat of Israel at this time.

and hung his body on the wall of Beth-shan
Beth-shan was a strategic city located in the Jordan Valley, controlling the routes between the Jezreel Valley and the Jordan River. Archaeological excavations have revealed that Beth-shan was a significant urban center during the time of Saul. By hanging Saul's body on the city wall, the Philistines intended to display their triumph and further disgrace the fallen king. This act of public humiliation was meant to demoralize the Israelites and assert Philistine dominance. The hanging of Saul's body can be seen as a foreshadowing of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, who was also publicly displayed, though His death ultimately led to victory over sin and death. The retrieval and proper burial of Saul's body by the men of Jabesh-gilead (1 Samuel 31:11-13) highlights themes of loyalty and respect for the anointed king, despite his failures.

Jabesh-gilead’s Tribute to Saul

When the people of Jabesh-gilead
Jabesh-gilead was a city located east of the Jordan River in the territory of Gilead. It is significant in Israel's history, particularly in the narrative of Saul. The people of Jabesh-gilead had a special connection to Saul because he had previously rescued them from the Ammonites (1 Samuel 11). This act of deliverance created a bond of loyalty and gratitude towards Saul, which is evident in their later actions. The city’s location in Gilead, a region known for its balm and healing properties, may symbolically reflect the healing and restoration they sought to bring to Saul’s legacy.

heard what the Philistines had done to Saul
The Philistines were a constant threat to Israel during the time of Saul. They were a seafaring people who settled along the coastal regions of Canaan and were known for their military prowess and advanced weaponry, including iron chariots. The Philistines' actions against Saul included not only defeating him in battle but also desecrating his body, which was a common practice in ancient warfare to humiliate the enemy and assert dominance. This act was particularly grievous to the Israelites, as it was seen as a dishonor not only to Saul but to the nation of Israel and their God. The news of Saul's defeat and the subsequent treatment of his body would have been a source of deep mourning and outrage for the people of Jabesh-gilead, prompting them to take action.

all their men of valor set out
The men of Jabesh-gilead were known for their bravery and loyalty, particularly to Saul, who had once delivered them from the Ammonites (1 Samuel 11). This act of valor reflects their gratitude and respect for Saul, despite his tragic end. The term "men of valor" indicates not only physical strength but also courage and moral integrity, qualities highly esteemed in Israelite society.

journeyed all night
The urgency and dedication of the men are highlighted by their willingness to travel under the cover of darkness. This nocturnal journey suggests a strategic move to avoid confrontation with the Philistines, who had occupied the area. It also underscores the risk they were willing to take to honor Saul and his sons, reflecting a deep sense of duty and loyalty.

and retrieved the bodies of Saul and his sons from the wall of Beth-shan
Beth-shan was a significant city in the Jezreel Valley, strategically located at the crossroads of major trade routes. The Philistines had displayed the bodies as a public humiliation of Israel and its king. Retrieving the bodies was an act of defiance against the Philistines and a restoration of dignity to Saul and his sons. This act also fulfilled the cultural and religious obligation to ensure proper burial, which was crucial in Israelite tradition.

When they arrived at Jabesh
Jabesh-gilead was located east of the Jordan River, in the territory of Gilead. The connection between Jabesh-gilead and Saul was strong due to his earlier deliverance of the city. The return to Jabesh signifies a full circle of loyalty and respect, as the people of Jabesh-gilead repay Saul's past kindness with their own.

they burned the bodies there
Cremation was not a common practice in Israelite culture, where burial was the norm. However, in this context, burning the bodies may have been a practical decision to prevent further desecration by the Philistines or due to the condition of the bodies after being exposed. This act ensured that the remains were treated with respect and safeguarded from further dishonor.

Then they took their bones
This phrase refers to the actions of the valiant men of Jabesh-gilead who retrieved the bodies of Saul and his sons from the Philistines. The bones symbolize the remains of the deceased, highlighting the respect and honor given to the dead in ancient Israelite culture. The retrieval of the bones signifies an act of loyalty and gratitude, as Saul had previously rescued Jabesh-gilead from the Ammonites (1 Samuel 11).

and buried them under the tamarisk tree
The tamarisk tree is significant as it was a common tree in the region, often associated with shade and rest. In biblical times, trees were sometimes used as landmarks or memorials. The burial under the tamarisk tree may symbolize a place of remembrance and honor. This act of burial also reflects the cultural and religious importance of proper burial practices in Israel, ensuring that the deceased were treated with dignity.

in Jabesh
Jabesh refers to Jabesh-gilead, a city east of the Jordan River. This location is significant because it was the city Saul had saved from Nahash the Ammonite, creating a bond between Saul and the people of Jabesh-gilead. Their actions in retrieving and burying Saul's bones demonstrate their loyalty and gratitude towards him.

and they fasted seven days
Fasting for seven days indicates a period of mourning and respect for the dead. The number seven often represents completeness or perfection in the Bible, suggesting a full period of mourning. This practice aligns with other biblical instances of mourning, such as the mourning for Jacob in Genesis 50:10. Fasting was a way to express grief, seek God's favor, and reflect on the events that had transpired.

This is a draft of the Berean Study Bible. Please send all comments and recommendations to bereanstudybible@aol.com.



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