1 Samuel 11:1

Soon Nahash the Ammonite came up and laid siege to Jabesh-gilead. All the men of Jabesh said to him, "Make a treaty with us, and we will serve you."

Study Bible

Now Nahash the Ammonite
The name "Nahash" means "serpent" in Hebrew, which is fitting given his role as an adversary to Israel. The Ammonites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, and had a long history of enmity with Israel. This historical context sets the stage for understanding the deep-seated animosity and the threat Nahash posed. The Ammonites, often at odds with Israel, were known for their aggression and hostility, which is evident in Nahash's actions.

came up and besieged
The phrase "came up" indicates a movement from a lower to a higher elevation, as Jabesh-gilead was located in the hill country of Gilead. The act of besieging a city was a common military tactic in ancient times, involving surrounding a city to cut off supplies and force surrender. This tactic reflects the strategic and ruthless nature of Nahash's campaign against Israel, highlighting the dire situation faced by the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead.

Jabesh-gilead
Jabesh-gilead was a city east of the Jordan River, in the territory of Gilead. It held historical significance for Israel, as it was the city that had been spared during the civil conflict with the tribe of Benjamin (Judges 21). The city's vulnerability to Nahash's siege underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the Israelites in securing their land and maintaining unity among the tribes.

And all the men of Jabesh
The phrase "all the men" suggests a collective response from the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead, indicating the severity of the threat they faced. This unity in seeking a solution reflects the desperation and fear that gripped the city under siege. It also highlights the communal nature of decision-making in ancient Israelite society, where the welfare of the community was paramount.

said to Nahash, 'Make a treaty with us, and we will serve you.'
The request to "make a treaty" reveals the dire circumstances and the willingness of the men of Jabesh-gilead to submit to Nahash to avoid destruction. In ancient Near Eastern culture, treaties often involved terms of servitude and tribute, reflecting a loss of autonomy. This plea for a treaty underscores the desperation of the Israelites and their lack of confidence in their ability to defend themselves without external help. It also sets the stage for Saul's emergence as a leader who would rally Israel to deliver Jabesh-gilead, demonstrating God's providential care for His people even in their moments of weakness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nahash the Ammonite
A king of the Ammonites, known for his aggression against Israel. His name means "serpent" in Hebrew, symbolizing his threatening nature.

2. Jabesh-gilead
A city in the territory of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. It was an Israelite city that found itself under siege by Nahash.

3. The Men of Jabesh
The inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead who, facing the threat of Nahash, sought to make a treaty to avoid destruction.

4. The Siege
An act of war where Nahash surrounded Jabesh-gilead, cutting it off from outside support, intending to subdue it.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Threats
Just as Nahash threatened Jabesh-gilead, believers today face various threats, whether spiritual, emotional, or physical. Recognizing these threats is the first step in seeking God's deliverance.

Seeking God's Deliverance
Instead of immediately seeking human solutions or compromises, believers are encouraged to first seek God's guidance and deliverance in times of trouble.

The Danger of Compromise
The men of Jabesh were willing to serve Nahash to avoid conflict. This highlights the danger of compromising with the world or sin, which can lead to spiritual bondage.

Community and Support
The isolation of Jabesh-gilead underscores the importance of community and support among believers. We are called to bear one another's burdens and support each other in times of need.

God's Sovereignty in Deliverance
The eventual deliverance of Jabesh-gilead by Saul (later in the chapter) reminds us of God's sovereignty and His ability to raise up deliverers in our times of need.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the willingness of the men of Jabesh to make a treaty with Nahash reveal about their situation and mindset? How can this inform our response to threats today?

2. How does the history of Jabesh-gilead in Judges 21 provide context for their vulnerability in 1 Samuel 11:1? What lessons can we learn about the consequences of past actions?

3. In what ways do we face similar "sieges" in our spiritual lives, and how can we seek God's deliverance rather than compromising with the world?

4. How can the church today act as a supportive community to prevent isolation and vulnerability among its members, as seen in the situation of Jabesh-gilead?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a significant threat or challenge. How did you see God's sovereignty and deliverance at work in that situation, and how can this encourage you in future challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 21
The history of Jabesh-gilead is significant, as it was previously punished by Israel for not joining the assembly against the tribe of Benjamin. This background provides context for their vulnerability and isolation.

1 Samuel 12
Samuel's farewell address references the deliverance from Nahash, highlighting God's role in Israel's victories and the importance of obedience to God.

Romans 12:18
This verse encourages living at peace with everyone, as far as it depends on you, which contrasts with the forced peace sought by Jabesh-gilead under duress.