◄ 1 Samuel 11 ►
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Saul Defeats the Ammonites 1Then Nahasha the Ammonite came up and laid siege to Jabesh-gilead. All the men of Jabesh said to him, “Make a treatyb with us, and we will serve you.” 2But 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.” 3“Hold off for seven days,” replied the elders of Jabesh, “and let us send messengers throughout Israel. If there is no one to save us, we will surrender to you.” 4When the messengers came to Gibeah of Saul and relayed these words in the hearing of the people, they all wept aloud. 5Just then Saul was returning from the field, behind his oxen. “What troubles the people?” asked Saul. “Why are they weeping?” And they relayed to him the words of the men from Jabesh. 6When Saul heard their words, the Spirit of God rushed upon him, and he burned with great anger. 7He took a pair of oxen, cut them into pieces, and sent them by messengers throughout the land of Israel, proclaiming, “This is what will be done to the oxen of anyone who does not march behind Saul and Samuel.” Then the terror of the LORD fell upon the people, and they came out together as one man. 8And when Saul numbered them at Bezek, there were 300,000 Israelites and 30,000c men of Judah. 9So they said to the messengers who had come, “Tell the men of Jabesh-gilead: ‘Deliverance will be yours tomorrow by the time the sun is hot.’” And when the messengers relayed this to the men of Jabesh, they rejoiced. 10Then the men of Jabesh said to Nahash, “Tomorrow we will come out, and you can do with us whatever seems good to you.” 11The next day Saul organized the troops into three divisions, and during the morning watch they invaded the camp of the Ammonites and slaughtered them, until the hottest part of the day. And the survivors were so scattered that no two of them were left together. Saul Confirmed as King 12Then the people said to Samuel, “Who said that Saul should not reign over us? Bring those men here so we can kill them!” 13But Saul ordered, “No one shall be put to death this day, for today the LORD has worked salvation in Israel.” 14Then Samuel said to the people, “Come, let us go to Gilgal and renew the kingship there.” 15So all the people went to Gilgal and confirmed Saul as king in the presence of the LORD. There they sacrificed peace offerings before the LORD, and Saul and all the Israelites rejoiced greatly. Footnotes: 1 a DSS and LXX About a month later Nahash 1 b Forms of the Hebrew berit are translated in most passages as covenant. 8 c DSS and LXX 70,000 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Samuel 11 Summary Saul Confirmed as King Verses 1–3 – Nahash Threatens Jabesh-gilead Nahash, king of the Ammonites, besieges the Israelite town of Jabesh-gilead. The townspeople plead for a treaty, but Nahash demands that every man’s right eye be gouged out, disgracing all Israel. The elders request seven days to seek help; if none comes, they will surrender. Verses 4–8 – Saul Roused by God’s Spirit Messengers reach Saul’s hometown of Gibeah. At the news, the people weep, and Saul—still working his fields—returns behind his oxen. When he hears the report, “the Spirit of God rushed upon him” and he is filled with righteous anger. He slaughters two oxen, sends the pieces throughout Israel, and warns: “This is what will be done to the oxen of anyone who does not follow Saul and Samuel.” The “terror of the LORD” unifies Israel; 300,000 from Israel and 30,000 from Judah assemble at Bezek. Verses 9–11 – Deliverance and Rout Saul’s envoys promise Jabesh-gilead rescue “by the time the sun is hot tomorrow.” Saul divides his troops into three companies, launches a pre-dawn assault, and fights until noon. The Ammonites are routed; survivors scatter so completely that no two remain together. Verses 12–15 – Kingship Renewed at Gilgal The victory silences earlier skeptics of Saul’s rule, yet he spares their lives: “No one shall be put to death this day, for today the LORD has brought salvation to Israel.” Samuel leads the nation to Gilgal, where Saul’s kingship is reaffirmed before the LORD with peace offerings and great rejoicing. The 11th chapter of 1 Samuel marks a significant turn in Israel's history as it details Saul's first significant act as king. The chapter narrates the siege of Jabesh Gilead by Nahash the Ammonite, the emergence of Saul's prophetic power, the unification of Israelites under Saul's leadership against the Ammonites, and his subsequent affirmation as king. Historical Background: Israel and Ammon • Ammon descended from Lot (Genesis 19:38) and occupied land east of the Jordan, north of Moab. • In Judges 11, Jephthah fought Ammon over disputed territory. The lingering hostility explains Nahash’s aggression. • Ancient Near Eastern rulers often maimed captives (cf. Judges 1:6-7) to cripple military potential and intimidate rivals. Geography in the Chapter • Jabesh-gilead sat in the hills of Gilead, roughly 20 miles east of the Jordan—exposed to Ammonite attack. • Gibeah, Saul’s hometown, lay in Benjamin’s territory about 42 miles southwest of Jabesh-gilead. • Bezek may refer to modern Khirbet Ibziq, a staging area in the Jordan Valley. • Gilgal, near Jericho, previously served as Israel’s first camp in Canaan (Joshua 4:19) and a gathering place for covenant renewal. Nahash the Ammonite in Extra-Biblical Sources Fragments from the Dead Sea Scrolls’ 4QSamᵃ add that Nahash had already oppressed Gad and Reuben, gouging out right eyes except in Jabesh-gilead. This background clarifies Israel’s fear and urgency. Social and Military Customs • Mutilating the right eye removed depth perception, disqualifying men from using shields effectively. • Cutting and sending ox pieces recalls the Levite’s dismembered concubine (Judges 19). The shocking symbol rouses tribal solidarity. • “The terror of the LORD” (v. 7) echoes Exodus 15:16; divine dread motivates Israel’s muster. The Spirit of God and Early Kingship • Like the judges Othniel and Gideon (Judges 3:10; 6:34), Saul is empowered by God’s Spirit for deliverance. • The episode validates God’s choice of Saul (1 Samuel 10:1, 6-7) before the nation experiences formal monarchy. • Contrast later moments when Saul acts without God’s guidance (13:8-14; 15:24-26). Links to Jabesh-gilead’s Earlier Story • Jabesh-gilead failed to aid Benjamin in Judges 21, yet later rescued and intermarried with Benjaminite survivors. Their current plea finds a sympathetic ear in Saul, a Benjaminite. • After Saul’s death, men of Jabesh-gilead risk their lives to recover his body (1 Samuel 31:11-13), repaying the deliverance of chapter 11. Archaeological Notes • Fortified Iron Age settlements identified east of the Jordan align with biblical Gileadite towns, displaying walls and storage facilities suitable for prolonged siege. • Excavations at Tell el-Maqlub (possible Jabesh) uncover destruction layers and sling stones, indicating repeated military conflict. Military Strategy and Numbers • Dividing forces into three echoes Gideon’s tactic (Judges 7:16). Approaching at dawn exploits surprise and positions Saul’s troops between the enemy and daylight. • The figure “300,000 Israel and 30,000 Judah” underscores national unity yet hints at later division (Israel vs. Judah). Large round numbers signal total mobilization rather than an exact census. Covenant Renewal at Gilgal • Samuel’s call to “renew the kingship” mirrors Joshua’s covenant renewal at the same site (Joshua 24). • Peace offerings emphasize fellowship with God and communal joy (Leviticus 3). • By sparing dissenters, Saul follows Deuteronomy 20:1-4’s recognition that victory belongs to the LORD, not human vengeance. Foreshadowing Christ’s Deliverance • Saul, anointed by God’s Spirit, delivers a helpless people—prefiguring the greater King who rescues from a far more ruthless enemy (Luke 4:18-19; Colossians 1:13). • The seven-day window of mercy (v. 3) reflects God’s patience before judgment (2 Peter 3:9). Practical Takeaways • God equips ordinary people—Saul the farmer—to meet extraordinary challenges (1 Corinthians 1:27-29). • Unity under God’s leadership brings victory; disunity invites disgrace (Psalm 133). • Righteous anger, guided by the Spirit, differs from human rage and defends the oppressed (Ephesians 4:26). Connections to Additional Scriptures Ephesians 6:10-18 The armor of God and the spiritual battle believers face, paralleling the physical battle in 1 Samuel 11. Romans 8:31 If God is for us, who can be against us? This verse echoes the assurance of God's deliverance seen in 1 Samuel 11. Acts 2:1-4 The empowerment of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, similar to the Spirit's empowerment of Saul. Teaching Points The Threat of Nahash the Ammonite Nahash the Ammonite came up and besieged Jabesh-gilead (1 Samuel 11:1). The enemy's demand for surrender and disgrace illustrates the spiritual battles we face. Desperation and Hope The elders of Jabesh request seven days to seek help, showing their desperation but also a glimmer of hope in seeking deliverance (1 Samuel 11:3). Saul's Leadership and the Spirit's Empowerment When Saul heard their words, the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he burned with anger (1 Samuel 11:6). Saul's righteous anger and decisive action demonstrate the importance of Spirit-led leadership. Unity Among the Israelites Saul unites the tribes of Israel, rallying them to rescue their brethren. This unity is crucial for victory (1 Samuel 11:7-8). The Victory and Renewal of Kingship The Israelites defeat the Ammonites, and Saul's kingship is reaffirmed at Gilgal, highlighting God's blessing on obedient leadership (1 Samuel 11:11-15). Practical Applications Seek God in Desperation When facing overwhelming challenges, turn to God and seek His deliverance rather than succumbing to despair. Value Spirit-Led Leadership Recognize and support leaders who are guided by the Holy Spirit, as they are crucial in leading God's people to victory. Foster Unity Work towards unity within the body of Christ, understanding that collective strength and cooperation are vital in overcoming spiritual battles. Celebrate God's Deliverance Remember to give thanks and celebrate God's victories in our lives, acknowledging His hand in our successes. People 1. Nahash the Ammonite Nahash is the king of the Ammonites who besieges Jabesh-gilead. He offers the people of Jabesh a harsh treaty, demanding to gouge out the right eye of every man as a disgrace upon all Israel. The name "Nahash" (נָחָשׁ) in Hebrew means "serpent" or "snake," which may symbolize his oppressive and cruel nature. 2. The Men of Jabesh-gilead These are the inhabitants of the city of Jabesh-gilead who are besieged by Nahash. They seek a treaty with Nahash to avoid destruction, showing their desperation and vulnerability. They send messengers throughout Israel to seek help. 3. Saul Saul is the newly anointed king of Israel who hears of the plight of Jabesh-gilead. Filled with the Spirit of God, he becomes angry and leads the Israelites to victory against the Ammonites. Saul's leadership in this battle helps to solidify his position as king. His name in Hebrew, "Sha'ul" (שָׁאוּל), means "asked for" or "prayed for." 4. Samuel Although not directly involved in the battle, Samuel is the prophet who anointed Saul as king. His role as a spiritual leader and judge over Israel is significant in the broader narrative of 1 Samuel. Samuel's name in Hebrew, "Shemuel" (שְׁמוּאֵל), means "heard by God." 5. The People of Israel The collective Israelites who respond to Saul's call to arms. They gather as one to fight against the Ammonites, demonstrating unity and support for Saul's leadership. Their response is crucial in the successful defense of Jabesh-gilead. Places 1. Jabesh-gilead Jabesh-gilead is the primary location mentioned in 1 Samuel 11. It is a city in the territory of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. The people of Jabesh-gilead are besieged by Nahash the Ammonite, prompting them to seek help from the Israelites. The Hebrew root for Jabesh-gilead (יַבֵּ֣שׁ גִּלְעָ֑ד) reflects its geographical and tribal significance within the region of Gilead. 2. Gibeah Gibeah is the city where Saul resides when he hears about the plight of Jabesh-gilead. It is located in the territory of Benjamin. Saul's response to the crisis begins here, as he rallies the Israelites to come to the aid of Jabesh-gilead. The Hebrew name Gibeah (גִּבְעָה) means "hill," indicating its elevated position. 3. Bezek Bezek is the place where Saul musters the Israelite troops before marching to relieve Jabesh-gilead. It serves as a gathering point for the forces of Israel and Judah. The name Bezek (בֶּזֶק) in Hebrew can be associated with the idea of scattering or breaking, possibly reflecting the assembling of troops from various locations. Events 1. Nahash the Ammonite Threatens Jabesh-gilead Nahash the Ammonite besieges Jabesh-gilead, and the men of Jabesh propose a treaty, offering to serve him. Nahash responds with a harsh condition: "I will make a treaty with you on the condition that I gouge out the right eye of every one of you and bring disgrace on all Israel" (1 Samuel 11:2). The Hebrew word for "disgrace" here is "חֶרְפָּה" (cherpah), indicating a deep shame or reproach. 2. The Elders of Jabesh Request a Respite The elders of Jabesh ask for seven days to send messengers throughout Israel to seek help. If no one comes to save them, they will surrender to Nahash (1 Samuel 11:3). 3. Messengers Reach Gibeah of Saul The messengers arrive in Gibeah, where Saul resides, and relay the terms of Nahash to the people. The people weep aloud upon hearing the news (1 Samuel 11:4). 4. Saul Hears the News and the Spirit of God Comes Upon Him Saul returns from the fields and hears the people weeping. When he learns of the situation, "the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he burned with anger" (1 Samuel 11:6). The Hebrew term for "Spirit" is "רוּחַ" (ruach), often indicating divine empowerment. 5. Saul Rallies Israel Saul takes a pair of oxen, cuts them into pieces, and sends the pieces throughout Israel with a message: "This is what will be done to the oxen of anyone who does not follow Saul and Samuel" (1 Samuel 11:7). The fear of the LORD falls on the people, and they unite as one. 6. Israel Gathers at Bezek Saul musters the Israelites at Bezek, numbering 300,000 from Israel and 30,000 from Judah (1 Samuel 11:8). 7. Saul Sends a Message to Jabesh-gilead Saul sends messengers to Jabesh-gilead, assuring them of deliverance by the next day: "By the time the sun is hot tomorrow, you will be delivered" (1 Samuel 11:9). 8. The Men of Jabesh Deceive Nahash The men of Jabesh tell Nahash they will surrender the next day, giving the impression they have no hope of rescue (1 Samuel 11:10). 9. Saul Defeats the Ammonites Saul divides his forces into three companies and launches a surprise attack on the Ammonite camp during the morning watch. The Ammonites are defeated, and those who survive are scattered (1 Samuel 11:11). 10. The People Acknowledge Saul's Kingship After the victory, the people propose executing those who previously doubted Saul's reign. However, Saul intervenes, saying, "No one will be put to death today, for this day the LORD has rescued Israel" (1 Samuel 11:13). 11. Samuel Renews the Kingdom at Gilgal Samuel calls the people to Gilgal to renew the kingdom. There, they make Saul king before the LORD, offer sacrifices, and celebrate with great joy (1 Samuel 11:14-15). The Hebrew word for "renew" is "חָדַשׁ" (chadash), meaning to restore or make new. Lessons from 1 Samuel 11 1. Leadership in Times of Crisis In 1 Samuel 11, we see Saul stepping up as a leader when the Ammonites threaten Jabesh-gilead. This chapter reminds us that true leadership often emerges in times of crisis. Saul's decisive action and reliance on God’s guidance demonstrate that when we face challenges, we should seek divine wisdom and courage. As it is written, "The Spirit of God came powerfully upon Saul" (1 Samuel 11:6), showing us that God equips those He calls to lead. 2. Unity Through Shared Purpose When Saul calls the Israelites to arms, they respond with unity and determination. This teaches us the power of coming together for a common cause. In our own lives, whether in family, church, or community, unity can be a powerful force for good. "The fear of the LORD fell on the people, and they came out as one" (1 Samuel 11:7). Let us strive to work together, inspired by a shared purpose. 3. The Importance of Righteous Anger Saul's anger at the threat to Jabesh-gilead is described as righteous, fueled by the Spirit of God. This shows us that anger, when aligned with God’s will, can be a catalyst for positive action. "His anger burned greatly" (1 Samuel 11:6). We should channel our emotions into actions that align with God’s righteousness, standing against injustice and defending the oppressed. 4. God’s Deliverance is Certain The victory over the Ammonites is a testament to God’s deliverance. Saul reassures the people, "Tomorrow, by the time the sun is hot, you will be delivered" (1 Samuel 11:9). This reminds us that God is faithful and His timing is perfect. In our own struggles, we can trust that God will deliver us, often in ways we least expect. 5. The Power of Encouragement Saul’s message to the people of Jabesh-gilead is one of hope and encouragement. "You will be delivered" (1 Samuel 11:9) is a powerful promise that lifts their spirits. We, too, can be sources of encouragement to those around us, offering words of hope and assurance that God is in control. 6. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Spirit of God plays a crucial role in empowering Saul to lead and deliver Israel. This chapter highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit in our lives, guiding and strengthening us to fulfill God’s purposes. "The Spirit of God came powerfully upon Saul" (1 Samuel 11:6). Let us seek the Spirit’s presence daily, allowing Him to work through us. 7. Humility in Victory After the victory, Saul demonstrates humility by refusing to punish those who doubted him. "No one will be put to death today, for this day the LORD has rescued Israel" (1 Samuel 11:13). This teaches us that true victory is marked by humility and grace, recognizing that all success comes from God. 8. Renewing Commitment to God Following the victory, Samuel leads the people in renewing their commitment to God. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of continually dedicating our lives to God’s service. "There they made Saul king in the presence of the LORD" (1 Samuel 11:15). Let us regularly renew our commitment to live according to His will. 9. The Joy of Salvation The chapter concludes with a celebration of God’s deliverance. "They sacrificed fellowship offerings before the LORD, and Saul and all the Israelites held a great celebration" (1 Samuel 11:15). This joy reflects the gratitude we should have for our salvation through Christ, celebrating the freedom and hope we have in Him. 10. God’s Sovereignty in Leadership Finally, 1 Samuel 11 underscores God’s sovereignty in appointing leaders. Saul’s rise to kingship is orchestrated by God, reminding us that He is in control of all authority. "The LORD has rescued Israel" (1 Samuel 11:13). We can trust that God places leaders according to His divine plan, and we should pray for them to lead with wisdom and integrity. Topics 1. The Siege of Jabesh-gilead The chapter begins with Nahash the Ammonite besieging Jabesh-gilead. The men of Jabesh propose a treaty, but Nahash demands the gouging out of their right eyes as a disgrace to all Israel. This reflects the Hebrew term "cherpah" (חֶרְפָּה), meaning disgrace or reproach, highlighting the severity of Nahash's demand. 2. The Plea for Help The elders of Jabesh request seven days to seek help from Israel. If no one comes to save them, they will surrender. This plea underscores the desperation and unity among the Israelites, as they seek deliverance from their brethren. 3. Saul's Response to the Crisis When Saul hears the news, the Spirit of God comes powerfully upon him, and he becomes very angry. The Hebrew word "ruach" (רוּחַ) for spirit indicates a divine empowerment that moves Saul to action, demonstrating God's involvement in Israel's deliverance. 4. The Call to Arms Saul cuts a pair of oxen into pieces and sends them throughout Israel, warning that the same will be done to the oxen of anyone who does not follow him and Samuel. This act unites the Israelites in fear and urgency, as they gather to support Saul. 5. The Victory over the Ammonites Saul leads the Israelites to a decisive victory over the Ammonites, saving Jabesh-gilead. This victory solidifies Saul's position as king and demonstrates God's favor upon him as a leader. 6. The Renewal of the Kingdom After the victory, the people reaffirm Saul's kingship at Gilgal. This event marks a significant moment of national unity and religious renewal, as they offer sacrifices and celebrate before the LORD. The Hebrew term "melek" (מֶלֶךְ) for king emphasizes Saul's established role as the divinely appointed leader of Israel. Themes 1. Leadership and Deliverance In 1 Samuel 11, Saul's leadership is solidified as he delivers the people of Jabesh-gilead from the Ammonites. This theme highlights the role of a divinely appointed leader in delivering God's people from oppression. The Hebrew root for "deliver" (יָשַׁע, yasha) emphasizes salvation and rescue, underscoring God's intervention through Saul. 2. Unity Among the Israelites The chapter illustrates the unity of the Israelite tribes as they rally together under Saul's leadership to fight against the Ammonites. This theme is significant as it shows the importance of collective action and solidarity among God's people. The Hebrew word for "together" (יַחַד, yachad) reflects this unity. 3. Divine Empowerment Saul's empowerment by the Spirit of God is a key theme, as seen in 1 Samuel 11:6: "When Saul heard their words, the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he burned with anger." The Hebrew word for "Spirit" (רוּחַ, ruach) indicates a divine force that enables Saul to act decisively. 4. Covenant Loyalty The people of Jabesh-gilead appeal to the covenant relationship with Israel, seeking help against the Ammonites. This theme underscores the importance of covenant loyalty and mutual support among the tribes of Israel, reflecting the Hebrew concept of "chesed" (חֶסֶד), meaning steadfast love or loyalty. 5. Judgment and Mercy After the victory, some Israelites call for the execution of those who doubted Saul's kingship. However, Saul shows mercy, stating in 1 Samuel 11:13, "No one will be put to death today, for this day the LORD has rescued Israel." This theme contrasts human judgment with divine mercy, highlighting Saul's role as a merciful leader. 6. Renewal of Kingship The chapter concludes with the renewal of Saul's kingship at Gilgal, where the people reaffirm their commitment to him as king. This theme emphasizes the importance of public recognition and renewal of leadership, as well as the Hebrew concept of "melek" (מֶלֶךְ), meaning king, which signifies authority and governance under God's guidance. Prayer Points Pray for godly leaders who are filled with the Holy Spirit and can lead with wisdom and courage. Ask for unity within the church and among believers, that we may stand strong against spiritual adversaries. Thank God for His faithfulness and deliverance in our lives, and seek His guidance in times of trouble. Pray for the courage to face challenges with faith, trusting in God's power to save and deliver. Answering Tough Questions 1. In 1 Samuel 11:1–2, how could gouging out the right eye of every Israelite realistically have served as a sign of submission without stronger resistance or outside intervention? 2. In 1 Samuel 11:5–7, is it historically plausible that Saul’s threat with the oxen pieces could mobilize such a large army so quickly? 3. In 1 Samuel 11:6, how can an invisible Spirit “rush upon” Saul and make him so effective in leadership, given a skeptical view of supernatural involvement? 4. How does the portrayal of Saul’s triumphant leadership in 1 Samuel 11 align or conflict with his later portrayal as a flawed or rejected king? 5. If this battle was as decisive as 1 Samuel 11 describes, why is there minimal archaeological or historical evidence of such a significant conflict? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Nahash's demand for a treaty reveal his intentions towards the people of Jabesh Gilead? 2. What was the significance of Saul cutting his oxen into pieces and sending them across Israel? 3. How did the Spirit of God play a part in the unity of Israel under Saul's leadership? 4. How does the affirmation of Saul's kingship demonstrate the relationship between the leader and his people in the Biblical context? 5. How does 1 Samuel 11 demonstrate the importance of unity and solidarity? 6. What can we learn from Saul's response to the news of Jabesh's distress? 7. How do the actions of Saul in this chapter compare to the qualities of modern-day leaders? 8. How can the concept of divine intervention be applied to current global crises? 9. How can Saul's courage inspire us in times of personal trials? 10. How does the affirmation of Saul's kingship illustrate the impact of successful leadership? 11. How does the defeat of the Ammonites reflect the power of collective effort? 12. What lessons can be taken from the people of Jabesh Gilead's response to Nahash's siege? 13. How does Saul's leadership style compare to other biblical leaders we've studied? 14. How does the unity of the Israelites in this chapter speak to the concept of unity in the modern church? 15. What attributes did Saul demonstrate that confirmed his suitability as a king? 16. How can we apply the lessons of divine intervention and support in our daily lives? 17. What role does fear play in this chapter, and how is it overcome? 18. How can the celebration at Gilgal be related to the celebrations in modern churches? 19. How can the story of Saul's rise to kingship inspire modern leaders? 20. How can we use Saul's story as an example when facing adversity or challenges? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions