The account of the elders of Jabesh requesting a respite is found in 1 Samuel 11. This narrative highlights the dire situation faced by the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead and their subsequent deliverance through the leadership of Saul, the first king of Israel.

Context and Background

Jabesh-gilead was a city located east of the Jordan River, within the territory of the tribe of Manasseh. The city had historical ties to the tribe of Benjamin, as seen in the aftermath of the civil war against the tribe of Benjamin (Judges 21). This connection may have influenced the later events involving Saul, a Benjamite.

The Threat from Nahash the Ammonite

The narrative begins with Nahash the Ammonite besieging Jabesh-gilead. The Ammonites were descendants of Lot and had a history of enmity with Israel. Nahash's demand was severe: he would make a treaty with the people of Jabesh only on the condition that he gouge out the right eye of every man, thus bringing disgrace upon all Israel (1 Samuel 11:2).

The Request for Respite

Faced with this humiliating and crippling demand, the elders of Jabesh sought a temporary reprieve. They requested seven days to send messengers throughout Israel, hoping to find someone to rescue them. Nahash, confident in his position, granted this request (1 Samuel 11:3).

Saul's Response and Deliverance

The messengers reached Gibeah, where Saul was living. Upon hearing the news, the Spirit of God came powerfully upon Saul, and he was filled with righteous anger. Saul took decisive action by cutting a pair of oxen into pieces and sending them throughout Israel with a warning: anyone who did not follow him and Samuel would have their oxen treated likewise (1 Samuel 11:6-7).

The fear of the LORD fell upon the people, and they united under Saul's leadership. Saul mustered an army of 330,000 men and launched a surprise attack on the Ammonites at dawn, resulting in a decisive victory. The people of Jabesh-gilead were saved, and the threat from Nahash was neutralized (1 Samuel 11:11).

Significance

The deliverance of Jabesh-gilead was a pivotal moment in Saul's early reign. It solidified his position as king and demonstrated his ability to lead and unify the tribes of Israel. The event also underscored the importance of divine intervention and the empowerment of the Spirit of God in achieving victory against formidable foes.

The narrative of the elders of Jabesh requesting a respite serves as a testament to the faithfulness of God in delivering His people and the importance of godly leadership in times of crisis.