The account of Nahash the Ammonite's threat is a significant episode in the history of Israel, illustrating the challenges faced by the nascent monarchy under King Saul. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 11 and provides insight into the political and military tensions between Israel and its neighboring nations during the early monarchy period.

Historical Context

Nahash was the king of the Ammonites, a people descended from Lot, Abraham's nephew (Genesis 19:36-38). The Ammonites, residing east of the Jordan River, were often in conflict with Israel. The threat posed by Nahash occurred during a time when Israel was transitioning from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy under Saul, the first king of Israel.

The Siege of Jabesh-gilead

The narrative begins with Nahash besieging the Israelite city of Jabesh-gilead. The men of Jabesh, recognizing their inability to withstand the Ammonite forces, sought to make a treaty with Nahash. However, Nahash's terms were brutal and humiliating: "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).

This demand was not merely a military strategy but also a psychological tactic intended to demoralize the Israelites and assert Ammonite dominance. The right eye was crucial for soldiers in battle, particularly for those using shields, as it was essential for aiming and defense.

The Response of Saul

The elders of Jabesh requested a seven-day respite to seek help from the rest of Israel. When the news reached Saul, he was filled with the Spirit of God and burned with anger (1 Samuel 11:6). Saul's response was decisive and unifying. He slaughtered a pair of oxen 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 rallied the Israelites, who gathered as one to confront the Ammonite threat.

The Battle and Deliverance

Saul mustered an army of 330,000 men and launched a surprise attack on the Ammonite camp at dawn. The Israelites achieved a decisive victory, scattering the Ammonite forces and lifting the siege of Jabesh-gilead (1 Samuel 11:11). This victory solidified Saul's position as king and demonstrated the effectiveness of a united Israel under a divinely appointed leader.

Theological Significance

The threat of Nahash and the subsequent deliverance of Jabesh-gilead underscore several theological themes. First, it highlights the role of divine intervention in Israel's history. Saul's empowerment by the Spirit of God emphasizes that Israel's victories are ultimately attributed to God's providence and favor.

Second, the episode illustrates the importance of unity among God's people. The tribes of Israel, previously fragmented, came together under Saul's leadership to face a common enemy. This unity was crucial for their survival and success.

Finally, the narrative serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Nahash's threat to gouge out the right eyes of the Israelites was not only a physical threat but also an affront to the dignity and identity of God's chosen people. The deliverance of Jabesh-gilead reaffirmed God's commitment to protect and preserve Israel despite external threats.

Conclusion

The threat of Nahash the Ammonite and the subsequent deliverance of Jabesh-gilead is a pivotal moment in the establishment of Saul's kingship and the unification of Israel. It reflects the ongoing struggle between Israel and its neighbors and underscores the necessity of divine guidance and national unity in overcoming adversity.