Biblical Context:
The account of Saul sending a message to Jabesh-gilead is found in 1 Samuel 11. This event occurs shortly after Saul is anointed as the first king of Israel by the prophet Samuel. The narrative highlights Saul's early leadership and the divine empowerment he receives to deliver Israel from its enemies.

Historical Background:
Jabesh-gilead was a city located east of the Jordan River, in the territory of Gilead. It was an Israelite city, and its inhabitants were part of the tribe of Manasseh. During this period, Israel was a loose confederation of tribes, often threatened by surrounding nations. The Ammonites, led by King Nahash, were one such threat, seeking to subjugate the Israelites.

The Threat from Nahash the Ammonite:
Nahash the Ammonite besieged Jabesh-gilead, presenting a dire ultimatum to its inhabitants. According to 1 Samuel 11:2 , Nahash said, "I will make a treaty with you on one condition: that I gouge out the right eye of every one of you and bring disgrace on all Israel." This brutal demand was intended to humiliate and incapacitate the Israelites, ensuring their subjugation.

The Appeal for Help:
In desperation, the elders of Jabesh-gilead requested a seven-day respite to seek help from the rest of Israel. If no one came to their aid, they would surrender to Nahash. This plea for assistance was sent throughout Israel, reaching Saul at Gibeah.

Saul's Response:
Upon hearing the news, Saul was filled with the Spirit of God, which kindled his anger against the Ammonite threat. 1 Samuel 11:6 states, "When Saul heard their words, the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he burned with anger." Saul's reaction was not merely human indignation but a divinely inspired zeal to protect God's people.

Mobilization of Israel:
Saul took a pair of oxen, cut them into pieces, and sent 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). This act was reminiscent of the ancient covenant ritual and served as a powerful call to arms. The fear of the LORD fell upon the people, and they united as one to follow Saul.

The Battle and Deliverance:
Saul mustered an army of 330,000 men from Israel and Judah. He sent a message to the besieged city of Jabesh-gilead, assuring them of deliverance by the next day. Saul's forces launched a surprise attack on the Ammonites at dawn, resulting in a decisive victory. The Ammonites were scattered, and the threat to Jabesh-gilead was eliminated.

Significance in Israel's History:
This victory solidified Saul's position as king and demonstrated his capability as a leader under God's guidance. It also unified the tribes of Israel under a central monarchy, setting the stage for future developments in the nation's history. Saul's actions were seen as a fulfillment of his divine calling to deliver Israel from its enemies, as initially prophesied by Samuel.

Theological Implications:
The episode underscores the importance of divine empowerment in leadership. Saul's success was attributed to the Spirit of God coming upon him, highlighting the necessity of divine intervention in overcoming formidable challenges. It also illustrates the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where God raises leaders to deliver His people in times of distress.

References:
· 1 Samuel 11:1-15 (Berean Standard Bible)