1 Samuel 11:2

But Nahash the Ammonite replied, "I will make a treaty with you on one condition, that I may put out everyone's right eye and bring reproach upon all Israel."

Study Bible

But Nahash the Ammonite replied
Nahash, whose name means "serpent" in Hebrew, is a fitting representation of the adversarial role he plays against Israel. The Ammonites were descendants of Lot, and their historical enmity with Israel is well-documented. This animosity is rooted in territorial disputes and religious differences, as the Ammonites worshipped gods like Milcom, contrasting with Israel's monotheistic worship of Yahweh. Nahash's response is not just a personal vendetta but a continuation of this deep-seated hostility.

I will make a treaty with you
The concept of a treaty in ancient Near Eastern culture often involved complex negotiations and was a means to establish peace or subjugation. In this context, Nahash's offer of a treaty is deceptive, as it is not a genuine offer of peace but a means to assert dominance and humiliate Israel. The Hebrew word for "treaty" (בְּרִית, berit) often implies a covenant, which in biblical terms is sacred and binding. However, Nahash's proposal perverts this sacred concept for malicious intent.

on one condition
This phrase indicates the conditional nature of Nahash's offer, highlighting the manipulative and coercive tactics often employed by oppressors. It underscores the power imbalance between Nahash and the besieged Israelites. The condition is not a mutual agreement but an ultimatum, reflecting the harsh realities of ancient warfare and diplomacy.

that I gouge out the right eye of every one of you
The act of gouging out the right eye is both a physical and symbolic gesture. In ancient military contexts, the right eye was crucial for soldiers, particularly archers, as it was used for aiming. By proposing to blind the Israelites in this manner, Nahash aims to incapacitate them militarily, ensuring their subjugation. Symbolically, this act represents a profound humiliation and a stripping away of dignity and identity. It is a tactic of psychological warfare, intended to instill fear and submission.

and bring disgrace on all Israel
Disgrace, in the Hebrew context, is a severe social and spiritual condition. The Hebrew word for disgrace (חֶרְפָּה, herpah) implies shame and reproach, affecting not just individuals but the collective identity of Israel. Nahash's intention is not merely to defeat Israel militarily but to tarnish their reputation and standing among the nations. This reflects the broader spiritual battle between the forces of Yahweh and the pagan deities, as Israel's disgrace would imply the failure of their God in the eyes of surrounding nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nahash the Ammonite
A king of the Ammonites, an ancient people often in conflict with Israel. His name means "serpent" in Hebrew, symbolizing his cunning and cruel nature.

2. The Ammonites
A neighboring nation east of the Jordan River, often hostile to Israel. They were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew.

3. Jabesh-gilead
A city in Israel, located east of the Jordan River. It was under threat from Nahash and sought a treaty to avoid destruction.

4. The Israelites
The people of God, who were in a vulnerable position and faced disgrace and physical harm from Nahash's demands.

5. Saul
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Saul becomes a central figure in the subsequent account as the newly anointed king who responds to the crisis.

Teaching Points

The Nature of Evil
Nahash's demand to gouge out the right eye symbolizes the oppressive and humiliating nature of sin and evil. Believers must recognize and resist the spiritual forces that seek to disgrace and dominate them.

Leadership in Crisis
The situation at Jabesh-gilead highlights the need for godly leadership in times of crisis. Saul's eventual response demonstrates how God can use leaders to deliver His people.

Community and Solidarity
The threat to Jabesh-gilead serves as a reminder of the importance of unity among God's people. When one part of the body suffers, the whole community should rally in support.

Trust in God's Deliverance
Despite the dire circumstances, the account encourages believers to trust in God's ability to deliver and vindicate His people, even when the odds seem insurmountable.

The Cost of Compromise
The proposed treaty with Nahash illustrates the dangers of compromising with evil. Believers are called to stand firm in their faith and not yield to the demands of the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nahash's demand reflect the spiritual battles we face today, and what can we learn about resisting such threats?

2. In what ways does the account of Jabesh-gilead challenge us to support and stand with fellow believers in times of need?

3. How does Saul's response to Nahash's threat serve as a model for godly leadership, and what qualities should we seek in our leaders today?

4. What are some modern-day "treaties" or compromises that Christians might be tempted to make, and how can we remain faithful to God's commands?

5. How can we apply the lessons of trust and deliverance from this passage to our personal lives and the challenges we face?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 21
The history of Jabesh-gilead and its previous interactions with the tribes of Israel, providing context for its isolation and vulnerability.

Deuteronomy 23:3-6
The Ammonites' historical enmity with Israel, as they were excluded from the assembly of the Lord due to their hostility.

1 Samuel 10:27
The skepticism about Saul's ability to lead, which sets the stage for his response to Nahash's threat as a test of his kingship.