Biblical Context:
The event of Saul rallying Israel is a significant moment in the early monarchy of Israel, as recorded in the First Book of Samuel. This episode marks the beginning of Saul's reign as the first king of Israel, highlighting his leadership and the divine mandate that underpins his kingship. The narrative is set against the backdrop of Israel's ongoing conflicts with neighboring nations, particularly the Ammonites.

Scriptural Account:
The account of Saul rallying Israel is found in 1 Samuel 11. The Ammonite king, Nahash, besieges Jabesh-gilead, a city in Israel. The men of Jabesh plead for a treaty, but Nahash demands the gouging out of their right eyes as a disgrace upon all Israel (1 Samuel 11:2). The elders of Jabesh request seven days to seek help from the rest of Israel, and if no one comes to their rescue, they will surrender.

When the news reaches Saul in Gibeah, the Spirit of God comes powerfully upon him, and he burns with anger (1 Samuel 11:6). 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 upon the people, and they unite as one.

Saul musters an army of 330,000 men from Israel and Judah. He sends messengers to Jabesh-gilead, assuring them of deliverance by the next day. The people of Jabesh relay this message to Nahash, feigning surrender to buy time.

Military Victory:
Saul divides his forces into three companies and launches a surprise attack on the Ammonite camp during the last watch of the night. The Israelites defeat the Ammonites, and the survivors are so scattered that no two of them are left together (1 Samuel 11:11). This victory solidifies Saul's position as king and demonstrates the LORD's favor upon him.

Theological Significance:
Saul's rallying of Israel and the subsequent victory over the Ammonites underscore several theological themes. First, it highlights the role of divine intervention in Israel's history. The Spirit of God empowers Saul, indicating that his leadership is sanctioned by God. This divine empowerment is a recurring theme in the narratives of Israel's judges and kings.

Second, the unity of Israel under Saul's leadership is significant. The fear of the LORD unites the tribes, reflecting the covenantal relationship between God and His people. This unity is essential for Israel's survival and success against external threats.

Finally, the episode foreshadows the challenges of kingship in Israel. While Saul's initial success is marked by divine favor, his reign will later be characterized by disobedience and decline. This narrative sets the stage for the complex relationship between Israel's kings and their covenantal obligations to God.

Historical and Cultural Context:
The demand for a king in Israel arose from the desire to be like other nations and to have centralized leadership for military and political stability. Saul's rallying of Israel against the Ammonites reflects the tribal confederation's transition to a monarchy. The cutting of the oxen and the sending of their pieces is a cultural practice that underscores the seriousness of the call to arms, reminiscent of the covenantal rituals in ancient Near Eastern societies.

Key Figures:
· Saul: The first king of Israel, chosen by God and anointed by the prophet Samuel. His leadership in this event demonstrates his initial obedience and reliance on divine guidance.
· Nahash the Ammonite: The antagonist whose aggression against Jabesh-gilead prompts Saul's rallying of Israel. His demand for the mutilation of the Israelites highlights the brutality of ancient warfare and the disdain for Israel among its neighbors.

Related Themes and Topics:
· The role of the Holy Spirit in empowering leaders.
· The unity and identity of Israel as God's chosen people.
· The covenantal relationship between God and Israel.
· The challenges and responsibilities of kingship in Israel.

Cross-References:
· Judges 19-21: The cutting of the concubine and the call to arms, a similar use of dismemberment to rally Israel.
· 1 Samuel 10: The anointing of Saul and the signs of his divine selection as king.
· 1 Samuel 12: Samuel's farewell address, which reflects on the establishment of the monarchy and the need for obedience to God.