1 Samuel 14:35

Then Saul built an altar to the LORD; it was the first time he had built an altar to the LORD.

Study Bible

Then Saul built an altar
The act of building an altar is significant in the Old Testament as it represents a place of worship, sacrifice, and communion with God. The Hebrew word for altar, "mizbeach," is derived from the root "zabach," meaning "to sacrifice." This indicates that altars were primarily places for offering sacrifices to God. Saul's decision to build an altar suggests a moment of religious dedication or repentance. Historically, altars were constructed from earth or uncut stones, symbolizing purity and the unaltered creation of God. Saul's action here can be seen as an attempt to seek divine favor or guidance, especially in the context of his military leadership and the challenges he faced.

to the LORD
The use of "the LORD" in this context refers to Yahweh, the covenant name of God revealed to Moses. This name emphasizes God's eternal presence and faithfulness to His people. Saul's building of an altar to Yahweh signifies an acknowledgment of the God of Israel as the supreme deity deserving of worship and sacrifice. It reflects a moment where Saul recognizes the need to align with the divine will, seeking the LORD's blessing and intervention. In the broader scriptural context, this act is a reminder of the importance of maintaining a relationship with God through worship and obedience.

it was the first time
This phrase highlights the uniqueness of the event, marking it as a significant moment in Saul's reign. The fact that it was the first altar Saul built suggests a turning point or a new beginning in his spiritual journey or leadership. It may indicate a realization of the necessity of divine support in his kingship. Historically, the building of altars by leaders was a common practice to demonstrate piety and seek divine favor. This moment can be seen as Saul's attempt to establish a spiritual foundation for his rule, acknowledging the need for God's presence and guidance.

he had built an altar to the LORD
The repetition of the act of building an altar to the LORD emphasizes the importance of this action. It underscores Saul's intention to dedicate this altar specifically to Yahweh, distinguishing it from any pagan practices or altars to other deities. This dedication is crucial in the context of Israel's covenant relationship with God, where exclusive worship of Yahweh was a central tenet. Saul's construction of the altar can be viewed as an act of obedience and reverence, seeking to honor God and invite His presence and blessing upon the nation. In the broader narrative, it serves as a reminder of the need for leaders to prioritize spiritual commitments and seek divine guidance in their endeavors.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, anointed by the prophet Samuel. Saul's reign is marked by both military successes and spiritual failures. In this passage, he builds an altar to the LORD, indicating a moment of religious observance.

2. Altar
A structure upon which offerings or sacrifices are made for religious purposes. In the context of ancient Israel, altars were central to worship and communication with God.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God used in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people.

4. Israel
The nation chosen by God, consisting of the twelve tribes descended from the sons of Jacob. At this time, they are engaged in battles with the Philistines.

5. Philistines
A neighboring people often in conflict with Israel. Their interactions with Israel are a significant part of Saul's military campaigns.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Worship
Saul's building of an altar signifies a moment of turning to God in worship. It reminds us of the importance of setting aside time and space to honor God in our lives.

Symbolism of Altars
Altars in the Old Testament symbolize dedication, sacrifice, and communication with God. In our lives, we can create "altars" by dedicating time, resources, and our hearts to God.

Spiritual Leadership
As a leader, Saul's actions set a precedent for the people. This teaches us that our spiritual practices can influence and inspire those around us.

Incomplete Obedience
While Saul builds an altar, his overall reign is marked by incomplete obedience to God. This serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of wholehearted devotion.

Seeking God's Guidance
Building an altar was a way to seek God's guidance and favor. In our decisions and challenges, we should prioritize seeking God's will through prayer and scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the act of building an altar signify in the context of Saul's leadership and relationship with God?

2. How can we create "altars" in our own lives to dedicate time and resources to God?

3. In what ways does Saul's action of building an altar compare to other biblical figures who built altars, such as Abraham or Samuel?

4. How does Saul's incomplete obedience to God serve as a warning for us in our spiritual walk?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are seeking God's guidance in our daily decisions and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:7
Abraham builds an altar to the LORD, marking a significant moment of worship and covenant with God. This connects to Saul's action as a continuation of Israel's tradition of altar-building as a form of worship and dedication.

Exodus 20:24
God commands the Israelites to build altars for sacrifices, highlighting the importance of altars in worship and obedience to God.

1 Samuel 7:12
Samuel sets up a stone called Ebenezer, signifying God's help. This act of remembrance and worship parallels Saul's altar-building as a physical manifestation of seeking God's favor.