<hi type="bold">3. the plain--</hi>or, "the oak of Tabor," not the celebrated mount, for that was far distant.

<hi type="bold">three men going up to God to Beth-el--</hi>apparently to offer sacrifices there at a time when the ark and the tabernacle were not in a settled abode, and God had not yet declared the permanent place which He should choose. The kids were for sacrifice, the loaves for the offering, and the wine for the libations.

3. the plain-- or, "the oak of Tabor," not the celebrated mount, for that was far distant. three men going up to God to Beth-el-- apparently to offer sacrifices there at a time when the ark and the tabernacle were not in a settled abode, and God had not yet declared the permanent place which He should choose. The kids were for sacrifice, the loaves for the offering, and the wine for the libations.


<hi type="bold">5. the hill of God--</hi>probably Geba (<reference osisRef="1Sam.13.3">1Sa 13:3</reference>), so called from a school of the prophets being established there. The company of prophets were, doubtless, the pupils at this seminary, which had probably been instituted by Samuel, and in which the chief branches of education taught were a knowledge of the law, and of psalmody with instrumental music, which is called "prophesying" (here and in <reference osisRef="1Chr.25.1">1Ch 25:1</reference>, <reference osisRef="1Chr.25.7">7</reference>).

5. the hill of God-- probably Geba (1Sa 13:3), so called from a school of the prophets being established there. The company of prophets were, doubtless, the pupils at this seminary, which had probably been instituted by Samuel, and in which the chief branches of education taught were a knowledge of the law, and of psalmody with instrumental music, which is called "prophesying" (here and in 1Ch 25:1, 7).


<hi type="bold">6. the Spirit of the Lord will come upon thee--</hi>literally, "rush upon thee," suddenly endowing thee with a capacity and disposition to act in a manner far superior to thy previous character and habits; and instead of the simplicity, ignorance, and sheepishness of a peasant, thou wilt display an energy, wisdom, and magnanimity worthy of a prince.

6. the Spirit of the Lord will come upon thee-- literally, "rush upon thee," suddenly endowing thee with a capacity and disposition to act in a manner far superior to thy previous character and habits; and instead of the simplicity, ignorance, and sheepishness of a peasant, thou wilt display an energy, wisdom, and magnanimity worthy of a prince.


<hi type="bold">8. thou shalt go down before me to Gilgal--</hi>This, according to Josephus, was to be a standing rule for the observance of Saul while the prophet and he lived; that in every great crisis, such as a hostile incursion on the country, he should repair to Gilgal, where he was to remain seven days, to afford time for the tribes on both sides Jordan to assemble, and Samuel to reach it.

8. thou shalt go down before me to Gilgal-- This, according to Josephus, was to be a standing rule for the observance of Saul while the prophet and he lived; that in every great crisis, such as a hostile incursion on the country, he should repair to Gilgal, where he was to remain seven days, to afford time for the tribes on both sides Jordan to assemble, and Samuel to reach it.


<hi type="bold">9-11. when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God gave him another heart--</hi>Influenced by the words of Samuel, as well as by the accomplishment of these signs, Saul's reluctance to undertake the onerous office was overcome. The fulfilment of the two first signs [1Sa 10:7, 8] is passed over, but the third is specially described. The spectacle of a man, though more fit to look after his father's cattle than to take part in the sacred exercises of the young prophets--a man without any previous instruction, or any known taste, entering with ardor into the spirit, and skilfully accompanying the melodies of the sacred band, was so extraordinary a phenomenon, that it gave rise to the proverb, "Is Saul also among the prophets?" (see <reference osisRef="1Sam.19.24">1Sa 19:24</reference>). The prophetic spirit had come upon him; and to Saul it was as personal and experimental an evidence of the truth of God's word that had been spoken to him, as converts to Christianity have in themselves from the sanctifying power of the Gospel.

9-11. when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God gave him another heart-- Influenced by the words of Samuel, as well as by the accomplishment of these signs, Saul's reluctance to undertake the onerous office was overcome. The fulfilment of the two first signs [1Sa 10:7, 8] is passed over, but the third is specially described. The spectacle of a man, though more fit to look after his father's cattle than to take part in the sacred exercises of the young prophets--a man without any previous instruction, or any known taste, entering with ardor into the spirit, and skilfully accompanying the melodies of the sacred band, was so extraordinary a phenomenon, that it gave rise to the proverb, "Is Saul also among the prophets?" (see 1Sa 19:24). The prophetic spirit had come upon him; and to Saul it was as personal and experimental an evidence of the truth of God's word that had been spoken to him, as converts to Christianity have in themselves from the sanctifying power of the Gospel.


<hi type="bold">12. But who is their father?--</hi>The Septuagint reads, "Who is his father?" referring to Saul the son of Kish.

12. But who is their father?-- The Septuagint reads, "Who is his father?" referring to Saul the son of Kish.


<hi type="bold">17-25. Samuel called the people together ... at Mizpeh--</hi>a shaft-like hill near Hebron, five hundred feet in height. The national assemblies of the Israelites were held there. A day having been appointed for the election of a king, Samuel, after having charged the people with a rejection of God's institution and a superseding of it by one of their own, proceeded to the nomination of the new monarch. As it was of the utmost importance that the appointment should be under the divine direction and control, the determination was made by the miraculous lot, tribes, families, and individuals being successively passed until Saul was found. His concealment of himself must have been the result either of innate modesty, or a sudden nervous excitement under the circumstances. When dragged into view, he was seen to possess all those corporeal advantages which a rude people desiderate in their sovereigns; and the exhibition of which gained for the prince the favorable opinion of Samuel also. In the midst of the national enthusiasm, however, the prophet's deep piety and genuine patriotism took care to explain "the manner of the kingdom," that is, the royal rights and privileges, together with the limitations to which they were to be subjected; and in order that the constitution might be ratified with all due solemnity, the charter of this constitutional monarchy was recorded and laid up "before the Lord," that is, deposited in the custody of the priests, along with the most sacred archives of the nation.

17-25. Samuel called the people together... at Mizpeh-- a shaft-like hill near Hebron, five hundred feet in height. The national assemblies of the Israelites were held there. A day having been appointed for the election of a king, Samuel, after having charged the people with a rejection of God's institution and a superseding of it by one of their own, proceeded to the nomination of the new monarch. As it was of the utmost importance that the appointment should be under the divine direction and control, the determination was made by the miraculous lot, tribes, families, and individuals being successively passed until Saul was found. His concealment of himself must have been the result either of innate modesty, or a sudden nervous excitement under the circumstances. When dragged into view, he was seen to possess all those corporeal advantages which a rude people desiderate in their sovereigns; and the exhibition of which gained for the prince the favorable opinion of Samuel also. In the midst of the national enthusiasm, however, the prophet's deep piety and genuine patriotism took care to explain "the manner of the kingdom," that is, the royal rights and privileges, together with the limitations to which they were to be subjected; and in order that the constitution might be ratified with all due solemnity, the charter of this constitutional monarchy was recorded and laid up "before the Lord," that is, deposited in the custody of the priests, along with the most sacred archives of the nation.


<hi type="bold">26. And Saul also went home to Gibeah--</hi>near Geba. This was his place of residence (see <reference osisRef="Judg.20.20">Jud 20:20</reference>), about five miles north of Jerusalem.

<hi type="bold">there went ... a band of men, whose hearts God had touched--</hi>who feared God and regarded allegiance to their king as a conscientious duty. They are opposed to "the children of Belial."

26. And Saul also went home to Gibeah-- near Geba. This was his place of residence (see Jud 20:20), about five miles north of Jerusalem. there went... a band of men, whose hearts God had touched-- who feared God and regarded allegiance to their king as a conscientious duty. They are opposed to "the children of Belial."


<hi type="bold">27. the children of Belial said, How shall this man save us? And they despised him, and brought him no presents--</hi>In Eastern countries, the honor of the sovereign and the splendor of the royal household are upheld, not by a fixed rate of taxation, but by presents brought at certain seasons by officials, and men of wealth, from all parts of the kingdom, according to the means of the individual, and of a customary registered value. Such was the tribute which Saul's opponents withheld, and for want of which he was unable to set up a kingly establishment for a while. But "biding his time," he bore the insult with a prudence and magnanimity which were of great use in the beginning of his government. <chapter eID="1Sam.10"/>

27. the children of Belial said, How shall this man save us? And they despised him, and brought him no presents-- In Eastern countries, the honor of the sovereign and the splendor of the royal household are upheld, not by a fixed rate of taxation, but by presents brought at certain seasons by officials, and men of wealth, from all parts of the kingdom, according to the means of the individual, and of a customary registered value. Such was the tribute which Saul's opponents withheld, and for want of which he was unable to set up a kingly establishment for a while. But "biding his time," he bore the insult with a prudence and magnanimity which were of great use in the beginning of his government.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 11</title>
 <reference osisRef="1Sam.11.1-1Sam.11.4">1Sa 11:1-4</reference>. Nahash Offers Them of Jabesh-gilead a Reproachful Condition.

<hi type="bold">1. Then Nahash the Ammonite came up--</hi>Nahash ("serpent"); (see <reference osisRef="Judg.8.3">Jud 8:3</reference>). The Ammonites had long claimed the right of original possession in Gilead. Though repressed by Jephthah (<reference osisRef="Judg.11.33">Jud 11:33</reference>), they now, after ninety years, renew their pretensions; and it was the report of their threatened invasion that hastened the appointment of a king (<reference osisRef="1Sam.12.12">1Sa 12:12</reference>).

<hi type="bold">Make a covenant with us, and we will serve thee--</hi>They saw no prospect of aid from the western Israelites, who were not only remote, but scarcely able to repel the incursions of the Philistines from themselves.

CHAPTER 11 1Sa 11:1-4. Nahash Offers Them of Jabesh-gilead a Reproachful Condition. 1. Then Nahash the Ammonite came up-- Nahash ("serpent"); (see Jud 8:3). The Ammonites had long claimed the right of original possession in Gilead. Though repressed by Jephthah (Jud 11:33), they now, after ninety years, renew their pretensions; and it was the report of their threatened invasion that hastened the appointment of a king (1Sa 12:12). Make a covenant with us, and we will serve thee-- They saw no prospect of aid from the western Israelites, who were not only remote, but scarcely able to repel the incursions of the Philistines from themselves.


<hi type="bold">2. thrust out all your right eyes--</hi>literally, "scoop" or "hollow out" the ball. This barbarous mutilation is the usual punishment of usurpers in the East, inflicted on chiefs; sometimes, also, even in modern history, on the whole male population of a town. Nahash meant to keep the Jabeshites useful as tributaries, whence he did not wish to render them wholly blind, but only to deprive them of their right eye, which would disqualify them for war. Besides, his object was, through the people of Jabesh-gilead, to insult the Israelitish nation.

2. thrust out all your right eyes-- literally, "scoop" or "hollow out" the ball. This barbarous mutilation is the usual punishment of usurpers in the East, inflicted on chiefs; sometimes, also, even in modern history, on the whole male population of a town. Nahash meant to keep the Jabeshites useful as tributaries, whence he did not wish to render them wholly blind, but only to deprive them of their right eye, which would disqualify them for war. Besides, his object was, through the people of Jabesh-gilead, to insult the Israelitish nation.


<hi type="bold">3-4. send messengers unto all the coasts of Israel--</hi>a curious proof of the general dissatisfaction that prevailed as to the appointment of Saul. Those Gileadites deemed him capable neither of advising nor succoring them; and even in his own town the appeal was made to the people--not to the prince.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.11.5-1Sam.11.11">1Sa 11:5-11</reference>. They Send to Saul, and Are Delivered.

3-4. send messengers unto all the coasts of Israel-- a curious proof of the general dissatisfaction that prevailed as to the appointment of Saul. Those Gileadites deemed him capable neither of advising nor succoring them; and even in his own town the appeal was made to the people--not to the prince. 1Sa 11:5-11. They Send to Saul, and Are Delivered.


<hi type="bold">7. he took a yoke of oxen, and hewed them in pieces--</hi>(see <reference osisRef="Judg.19.29">Jud 19:29</reference>). This particular form of war-summons was suited to the character and habits of an agricultural and pastoral people. Solemn in itself, the denunciation that accompanied it carried a terrible threat to those that neglected to obey it. Saul conjoins the name of Samuel with his own, to lend the greater influence to the measure, and to strike greater terror unto all contemners of the order. The small contingent furnished by Judah suggests that the disaffection to Saul was strongest in that tribe.

7. he took a yoke of oxen, and hewed them in pieces-- (see Jud 19:29). This particular form of war-summons was suited to the character and habits of an agricultural and pastoral people. Solemn in itself, the denunciation that accompanied it carried a terrible threat to those that neglected to obey it. Saul conjoins the name of Samuel with his own, to lend the greater influence to the measure, and to strike greater terror unto all contemners of the order. The small contingent furnished by Judah suggests that the disaffection to Saul was strongest in that tribe.


<hi type="bold">8. Bezek--</hi>This place of general muster was not far from Shechem, on the road to Beth-shan, and nearly opposite the ford for crossing to Jabesh-gilead. The great number on the muster-roll showed the effect of Saul's wisdom and promptitude.

8. Bezek-- This place of general muster was not far from Shechem, on the road to Beth-shan, and nearly opposite the ford for crossing to Jabesh-gilead. The great number on the muster-roll showed the effect of Saul's wisdom and promptitude.


<hi type="bold">11. on the morrow, that Saul put the people in three companies--</hi>Crossing the Jordan in the evening, Saul marched his army all night, and came at daybreak on the camp of the Ammonites, who were surprised in three different parts, and totally routed. This happened before the seven days' truce expired.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.11.12-1Sam.11.15">1Sa 11:12-15</reference>. Saul Confirmed King.

11. on the morrow, that Saul put the people in three companies-- Crossing the Jordan in the evening, Saul marched his army all night, and came at daybreak on the camp of the Ammonites, who were surprised in three different parts, and totally routed. This happened before the seven days' truce expired. 1Sa 11:12-15. Saul Confirmed King.


<hi type="bold">12-15. the people said ..., Who is he that said, Shall Saul reign over us?--</hi>The enthusiastic admiration of the people, under the impulse of grateful and generous feelings, would have dealt summary vengeance on the minority who opposed Saul, had not he, either from principle or policy, shown himself as great in clemency as in valor. The calm and sagacious counsel of Samuel directed the popular feelings into a right channel, by appointing a general assembly of the militia, the really effective force of the nation, at Gilgal, where, amid great pomp and religious solemnities, the victorious leader was confirmed in his kingdom [1Sa 11:15]. <chapter eID="1Sam.11"/>

12-15. the people said..., Who is he that said, Shall Saul reign over us?-- The enthusiastic admiration of the people, under the impulse of grateful and generous feelings, would have dealt summary vengeance on the minority who opposed Saul, had not he, either from principle or policy, shown himself as great in clemency as in valor. The calm and sagacious counsel of Samuel directed the popular feelings into a right channel, by appointing a general assembly of the militia, the really effective force of the nation, at Gilgal, where, amid great pomp and religious solemnities, the victorious leader was confirmed in his kingdom [1Sa 11:15].


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 12</title>
 <reference osisRef="1Sam.12.1-1Sam.12.5">1Sa 12:1-5</reference>. Samuel Testifies his Integrity.

<hi type="bold">1-4. Samuel said unto all Israel--</hi>This public address was made after the solemn re-instalment of Saul, and before the convention at Gilgal separated. Samuel, having challenged a review of his public life, received a unanimous testimony to the unsullied honor of his personal character, as well as the justice and integrity of his public administration.

CHAPTER 12 1Sa 12:1-5. Samuel Testifies his Integrity. 1-4. Samuel said unto all Israel-- This public address was made after the solemn re-instalment of Saul, and before the convention at Gilgal separated. Samuel, having challenged a review of his public life, received a unanimous testimony to the unsullied honor of his personal character, as well as the justice and integrity of his public administration.


<hi type="bold">5. the Lord is witness against you, and his anointed is witness--</hi>that, by their own acknowledgment, he had given them no cause to weary of the divine government by judges, and that, therefore, the blame of desiring a change of government rested with themselves. This was only insinuated, and they did not fully perceive his drift.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.12.6-1Sam.12.16">1Sa 12:6-16</reference>. He Reproves the People for Ingratitude.

5. the Lord is witness against you, and his anointed is witness-- that, by their own acknowledgment, he had given them no cause to weary of the divine government by judges, and that, therefore, the blame of desiring a change of government rested with themselves. This was only insinuated, and they did not fully perceive his drift. 1Sa 12:6-16. He Reproves the People for Ingratitude.


<hi type="bold">7-16. Now therefore stand still, that I may reason with you--</hi>The burden of this faithful and uncompromising address was to show them, that though they had obtained the change of government they had so importunely desired, their conduct was highly displeasing to their heavenly King; nevertheless, if they remained faithful to Him and to the principles of the theocracy, they might be delivered from many of the evils to which the new state of things would expose them. And in confirmation of those statements, no less than in evidence of the divine displeasure, a remarkable phenomenon, on the invocation of the prophet, and of which he gave due premonition, took place.

7-16. Now therefore stand still, that I may reason with you-- The burden of this faithful and uncompromising address was to show them, that though they had obtained the change of government they had so importunely desired, their conduct was highly displeasing to their heavenly King; nevertheless, if they remained faithful to Him and to the principles of the theocracy, they might be delivered from many of the evils to which the new state of things would expose them. And in confirmation of those statements, no less than in evidence of the divine displeasure, a remarkable phenomenon, on the invocation of the prophet, and of which he gave due premonition, took place.


<hi type="bold">17-25. Is it not wheat harvest to-day?--</hi>That season in Palestine occurs at the end of June or beginning of July, when it seldom or never rains, and the sky is serene and cloudless. There could not, therefore, have been a stronger or more appropriate proof of a divine mission than the phenomenon of rain and thunder happening, without any prognostics of its approach, upon the prediction of a person professing himself to be a prophet of the Lord, and giving it as an attestation of his words being true. The people regarded it as a miraculous display of divine power, and, panic-struck, implored the prophet to pray for them. Promising to do so, he dispelled their fears. The conduct of Samuel, in this whole affair of the king's appointment, shows him to have been a great and good man who sank all private and personal considerations in disinterested zeal for his country's good and whose last words in public were to warn the people, and their king, of the danger of apostasy and disobedience to God. <chapter eID="1Sam.12"/>

17-25. Is it not wheat harvest to-day?-- That season in Palestine occurs at the end of June or beginning of July, when it seldom or never rains, and the sky is serene and cloudless. There could not, therefore, have been a stronger or more appropriate proof of a divine mission than the phenomenon of rain and thunder happening, without any prognostics of its approach, upon the prediction of a person professing himself to be a prophet of the Lord, and giving it as an attestation of his words being true. The people regarded it as a miraculous display of divine power, and, panic-struck, implored the prophet to pray for them. Promising to do so, he dispelled their fears. The conduct of Samuel, in this whole affair of the king's appointment, shows him to have been a great and good man who sank all private and personal considerations in disinterested zeal for his country's good and whose last words in public were to warn the people, and their king, of the danger of apostasy and disobedience to God.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 13</title>
 <reference osisRef="1Sam.13.1">1Sa 13:1</reference>, <reference osisRef="2Cor.13.2">2</reference>. Saul's Selected Band.

<hi type="bold">1. Saul reigned one year--</hi>(see Margin). The transactions recorded in the eleventh and twelfth chapters were the principal incidents comprising the first year of Saul's reign; and the events about to be described in this happened in the second year.

CHAPTER 13 1Sa 13:1, 2. Saul's Selected Band. 1. Saul reigned one year-- (see Margin). The transactions recorded in the eleventh and twelfth chapters were the principal incidents comprising the first year of Saul's reign; and the events about to be described in this happened in the second year.


<hi type="bold">2. Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel--</hi>This band of picked men was a bodyguard, who were kept constantly on duty, while the rest of the people were dismissed till their services might be needed. It seems to have been his tactics to attack the Philistine garrisons in the country by different detachments, rather than by risking a general engagement; and his first operations were directed to rid his native territory of Benjamin of these enemies.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.13.3">1Sa 13:3</reference>, <reference osisRef="1Sam.13.4">4</reference>. He Calls the Hebrews to Gilgal against the Philistines.

2. Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel-- This band of picked men was a bodyguard, who were kept constantly on duty, while the rest of the people were dismissed till their services might be needed. It seems to have been his tactics to attack the Philistine garrisons in the country by different detachments, rather than by risking a general engagement; and his first operations were directed to rid his native territory of Benjamin of these enemies. 1Sa 13:3, 4. He Calls the Hebrews to Gilgal against the Philistines.


<hi type="bold">3-4. And Jonathan--</hi>that is, "God-given."

<hi type="bold">smote the garrison of the Philistines ... in Geba--</hi>Geba and Gibeah were towns in Benjamin, very close to each other (<reference osisRef="Josh.18.24">Jos 18:24</reference>, <reference osisRef="Josh.18.28">28</reference>). The word rendered "garrison" is different from that of <reference osisRef="1Sam.13.23">1Sa 13:23</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Sam.14.1">14:1</reference>, and signifies, literally, something erected; probably a pillar or flagstaff, indicative of Philistine ascendency. That the secret demolition of this standard, so obnoxious to a young and noble-hearted patriot, was the feat of Jonathan referred to, is evident from the words, "the Philistines heard of it," which is not the way we should expect an attack on a fortress to be noticed.

<hi type="bold">Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land--</hi>This, a well-known sound, was the usual Hebrew war-summons; the first blast was answered by the beacon fire in the neighboring places. A second blast was blown--then answered by a fire in a more distant locality, whence the proclamation was speedily diffused over the whole country. As the Philistines resented what Jonathan had done as an overt attempt to throw off their yoke, a levy, en masse, of the people was immediately ordered, the rendezvous to be the old camping-ground at Gilgal.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.13.5">1Sa 13:5</reference>. The Philistines' Great Host.

3-4. And Jonathan-- that is, "God-given." smote the garrison of the Philistines... in Geba-- Geba and Gibeah were towns in Benjamin, very close to each other (Jos 18:24, 28). The word rendered "garrison" is different from that of 1Sa 13:23; 14:1, and signifies, literally, something erected; probably a pillar or flagstaff, indicative of Philistine ascendency. That the secret demolition of this standard, so obnoxious to a young and noble-hearted patriot, was the feat of Jonathan referred to, is evident from the words, "the Philistines heard of it," which is not the way we should expect an attack on a fortress to be noticed. Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land-- This, a well-known sound, was the usual Hebrew war-summons; the first blast was answered by the beacon fire in the neighboring places. A second blast was blown--then answered by a fire in a more distant locality, whence the proclamation was speedily diffused over the whole country. As the Philistines resented what Jonathan had done as an overt attempt to throw off their yoke, a levy, en masse, of the people was immediately ordered, the rendezvous to be the old camping-ground at Gilgal. 1Sa 13:5. The Philistines' Great Host.


<hi type="bold">5. The Philistines gathered themselves together to fight with Israel, thirty thousand chariots, and six thousand horsemen--</hi>Either this number must include chariots of every kind--or the word "chariots" must mean the men fighting in them (<reference osisRef="2Sam.10.18">2Sa 10:18</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Kgs.20.21">1Ki 20:21</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Chr.19.18">1Ch 19:18</reference>); or, as some eminent critics maintain, Sheloshim ("thirty"), has crept into the text, instead of Shelosh ("three"). The gathering of the chariots and horsemen must be understood to be on the Philistine plain, before they ascended the western passes and pitched in the heart of the Benjamite hills, in "Michmash," (now Mukmas), a "steep precipitous valley" [Robinson], eastward from Beth-aven (Beth-el).

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.13.6-1Sam.13.8">1Sa 13:6-8</reference>. The Israelites' Distress.

5. The Philistines gathered themselves together to fight with Israel, thirty thousand chariots, and six thousand horsemen-- Either this number must include chariots of every kind--or the word "chariots" must mean the men fighting in them (2Sa 10:18; 1Ki 20:21; 1Ch 19:18); or, as some eminent critics maintain, Sheloshim ("thirty"), has crept into the text, instead of Shelosh ("three"). The gathering of the chariots and horsemen must be understood to be on the Philistine plain, before they ascended the western passes and pitched in the heart of the Benjamite hills, in "Michmash," (now Mukmas), a "steep precipitous valley" [Robinson], eastward from Beth-aven (Beth-el). 1Sa 13:6-8. The Israelites' Distress.


<hi type="bold">6. When the men of Israel saw that they were in a strait--</hi>Though Saul's gallantry was unabated, his subjects displayed no degree of zeal and energy. Instead of venturing an encounter, they fled in all directions. Some, in their panic, left the country (<reference osisRef="1Sam.13.7">1Sa 13:7</reference>), but most took refuge in the hiding-places which the broken ridges of the neighborhood abundantly afford. The rocks are perforated in every direction with "caves," and "holes," and "pits"--crevices and fissures sunk deep in the rocky soil, subterranean granaries or dry wells in the adjoining fields. The name of Michmash ("hidden treasure") seems to be derived from this natural peculiarity [Stanley].

6. When the men of Israel saw that they were in a strait-- Though Saul's gallantry was unabated, his subjects displayed no degree of zeal and energy. Instead of venturing an encounter, they fled in all directions. Some, in their panic, left the country (1Sa 13:7), but most took refuge in the hiding-places which the broken ridges of the neighborhood abundantly afford. The rocks are perforated in every direction with "caves," and "holes," and "pits"--crevices and fissures sunk deep in the rocky soil, subterranean granaries or dry wells in the adjoining fields. The name of Michmash ("hidden treasure") seems to be derived from this natural peculiarity [Stanley].


<hi type="bold">8. he--</hi>that is, Saul.

<hi type="bold">tarried seven days--</hi>He was still in the eastern borders of his kingdom, in the valley of Jordan. Some bolder spirits had ventured to join the camp at Gilgal; but even the courage of those stout-hearted men gave way in prospect of this terrible visitation; and as many of them were stealing away, he thought some immediate and decided step must be taken.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.13.9-1Sam.13.16">1Sa 13:9-16</reference>. Saul, Weary of Waiting for Samuel, Sacrifices.

8. he-- that is, Saul. tarried seven days-- He was still in the eastern borders of his kingdom, in the valley of Jordan. Some bolder spirits had ventured to join the camp at Gilgal; but even the courage of those stout-hearted men gave way in prospect of this terrible visitation; and as many of them were stealing away, he thought some immediate and decided step must be taken. 1Sa 13:9-16. Saul, Weary of Waiting for Samuel, Sacrifices.


<hi type="bold">9-14. Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings--</hi>Saul, though patriotic enough in his own way, was more ambitious of gaining the glory of a triumph to himself than ascribing it to God. He did not understand his proper position as king of Israel; and although aware of the restrictions under which he held the sovereignty, he wished to rule as an autocrat, who possessed absolute power both in civil and sacred things. This occasion was his first trial. Samuel waited till the last day of the seven, in order to put the constitutional character of the king to the test; and, as Saul, in his impatient and passionate haste knowingly transgressed (<reference osisRef="1Sam.13.12">1Sa 13:12</reference>) by invading the priest's office and thus showing his unfitness for his high office (as he showed nothing of the faith of Gideon and other Hebrew generals), he incurred a threat of the rejection which his subsequent waywardness confirmed.

9-14. Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings-- Saul, though patriotic enough in his own way, was more ambitious of gaining the glory of a triumph to himself than ascribing it to God. He did not understand his proper position as king of Israel; and although aware of the restrictions under which he held the sovereignty, he wished to rule as an autocrat, who possessed absolute power both in civil and sacred things. This occasion was his first trial. Samuel waited till the last day of the seven, in order to put the constitutional character of the king to the test; and, as Saul, in his impatient and passionate haste knowingly transgressed (1Sa 13:12) by invading the priest's office and thus showing his unfitness for his high office (as he showed nothing of the faith of Gideon and other Hebrew generals), he incurred a threat of the rejection which his subsequent waywardness confirmed.


<hi type="bold">15-16. Samuel ... gat him ... unto Gibeah ... and Saul, and Jonathan his son, and the people that were present with them, abode in Gibeah--</hi>Saul removed his camp thither, either in the hope that, it being his native town, he would gain an increase of followers or that he might enjoy the counsels and influence of the prophet.

15-16. Samuel... gat him... unto Gibeah... and Saul, and Jonathan his son, and the people that were present with them, abode in Gibeah-- Saul removed his camp thither, either in the hope that, it being his native town, he would gain an increase of followers or that he might enjoy the counsels and influence of the prophet.


<hi type="bold">17-18. the spoilers came out of the camp of the Philistines in three companies--</hi>ravaging through the three valleys which radiate from the uplands of Michmash to Ophrah on the north, through the pass of Beth-horon on the west, and down the ravines of Zeboim ("the hyænas"), towards the Ghor or Jordan valley on the east.

17-18. the spoilers came out of the camp of the Philistines in three companies-- ravaging through the three valleys which radiate from the uplands of Michmash to Ophrah on the north, through the pass of Beth-horon on the west, and down the ravines of Zeboim ("the hyænas"), towards the Ghor or Jordan valley on the east.


<hi type="bold">19-20. Now there was no smith found throughout ... Israel--</hi>The country was in the lowest state of depression and degradation. The Philistines, after the great victory over the sons of Eli, had become the virtual masters of the land. Their policy in disarming the natives has been often followed in the East. For repairing any serious damage to their agricultural implements, they had to apply to the neighboring forts.

19-20. Now there was no smith found throughout... Israel-- The country was in the lowest state of depression and degradation. The Philistines, after the great victory over the sons of Eli, had become the virtual masters of the land. Their policy in disarming the natives has been often followed in the East. For repairing any serious damage to their agricultural implements, they had to apply to the neighboring forts.


<hi type="bold">21. Yet they had a file--</hi>as a kind of privilege, for the purpose of sharpening sundry smaller utensils of husbandry. <chapter eID="1Sam.13"/>

21. Yet they had a file-- as a kind of privilege, for the purpose of sharpening sundry smaller utensils of husbandry.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 14</title>
 <reference osisRef="1Sam.14.1-1Sam.14.14">1Sa 14:1-14</reference>. Jonathan Miraculously Smites the Philistines' Garrison.

<hi type="bold">1. the Philistines' garrison--</hi>"the standing camp" (<reference osisRef="1Sam.13.23">1Sa 13:23</reference>, Margin) "in the passage of Michmash" (<reference osisRef="1Sam.13.16">1Sa 13:16</reference>), now Wady Es-Suweinit. "It begins in the neighborhood of Betin (Beth-el) and El-Bireh (Beetroth), and as it breaks through the ridge below these places, its sides form precipitous walls. On the right, about a quarter of an acre below, it again breaks off, and passes between high perpendicular precipices" [Robinson].

CHAPTER 14 1Sa 14:1-14. Jonathan Miraculously Smites the Philistines' Garrison. 1. the Philistines' garrison-- "the standing camp" (1Sa 13:23, Margin) "in the passage of Michmash" (1Sa 13:16), now Wady Es-Suweinit. "It begins in the neighborhood of Betin (Beth-el) and El-Bireh (Beetroth), and as it breaks through the ridge below these places, its sides form precipitous walls. On the right, about a quarter of an acre below, it again breaks off, and passes between high perpendicular precipices" [Robinson].


<hi type="bold">2. Saul tarried in the uttermost part of Gibeah--</hi>Hebrew, "Geba"; entrenched, along with Samuel and Ahiah the high priest, on the top of one of the conical or spherical hills which abound in the Benjamite territory, and favorable for an encampment, called Migron ("a precipice").

2. Saul tarried in the uttermost part of Gibeah-- Hebrew, "Geba"; entrenched, along with Samuel and Ahiah the high priest, on the top of one of the conical or spherical hills which abound in the Benjamite territory, and favorable for an encampment, called Migron ("a precipice").


<hi type="bold">4. between the passages--</hi>that is, the deep and great ravine of Suweinit.

<hi type="bold">Jonathan sought to go over unto the Philistines' garrison--</hi>a distance of about three miles running between two jagged points; Hebrew, "teeth of the cliff."

<hi type="bold">there was a sharp rock on the one side, and a sharp rock on the other side ... Bozez--</hi>("shining") from the aspect of the chalky rock.

<hi type="bold">Seneh--</hi>("the thorn") probably from a solitary acacia on its top. They are the only rocks of the kind in this vicinity; and the top of the crag towards Michmash was occupied as the post of the Philistines. The two camps were in sight of each other; and it was up the steep rocky sides of this isolated eminence that Jonathan and his armorbearer (<reference osisRef="1Sam.14.6">1Sa 14:6</reference>) made their adventurous approach. This enterprise is one of the most gallant that history or romance records. The action, viewed in itself, was rash and contrary to all established rules of military discipline, which do not permit soldiers to fight or to undertake any enterprise that may involve important consequences without the order of the generals.

4. between the passages-- that is, the deep and great ravine of Suweinit. Jonathan sought to go over unto the Philistines' garrison-- a distance of about three miles running between two jagged points; Hebrew, "teeth of the cliff." there was a sharp rock on the one side, and a sharp rock on the other side... Bozez-- ("shining") from the aspect of the chalky rock. Seneh-- ("the thorn") probably from a solitary acacia on its top. They are the only rocks of the kind in this vicinity; and the top of the crag towards Michmash was occupied as the post of the Philistines. The two camps were in sight of each other; and it was up the steep rocky sides of this isolated eminence that Jonathan and his armorbearer (1Sa 14:6) made their adventurous approach. This enterprise is one of the most gallant that history or romance records. The action, viewed in itself, was rash and contrary to all established rules of military discipline, which do not permit soldiers to fight or to undertake any enterprise that may involve important consequences without the order of the generals.


<hi type="bold">6. it may be that the Lord will work for us--</hi>This expression did not imply a doubt; it signified simply that the object he aimed at was not in his own power--but it depended upon God--and that he expected success neither from his own strength nor his own merit.

6. it may be that the Lord will work for us-- This expression did not imply a doubt; it signified simply that the object he aimed at was not in his own power--but it depended upon God--and that he expected success neither from his own strength nor his own merit.


<hi type="bold">9-10. if they say, Come up unto us; then we will go up: for the Lord hath delivered them into our hand--</hi>When Jonathan appears here to prescribe a sign or token of God's will, we may infer that the same spirit which inspired this enterprise suggested the means of its execution, and put into his heart what to ask of God. (See on <reference osisRef="Gen.24.12">Ge 24:12</reference>).

9-10. if they say, Come up unto us; then we will go up: for the Lord hath delivered them into our hand-- When Jonathan appears here to prescribe a sign or token of God's will, we may infer that the same spirit which inspired this enterprise suggested the means of its execution, and put into his heart what to ask of God. (See on Ge 24:12).


<hi type="bold">11. Behold, the Hebrews come forth out of the holes--</hi>As it could not occur to the sentries that two men had come with hostile designs, it was a natural conclusion that they were Israelite deserters. And hence no attempt was made to hinder their ascent, or stone them.

11. Behold, the Hebrews come forth out of the holes-- As it could not occur to the sentries that two men had come with hostile designs, it was a natural conclusion that they were Israelite deserters. And hence no attempt was made to hinder their ascent, or stone them.


<hi type="bold">14-15. that first slaughter, which Jonathan and his armour-bearer made, was about twenty men, within as it were an half acre of land, which a yoke of oxen might plow--</hi>This was a very ancient mode of measurement, and it still subsists in the East. The men who saw them scrambling up the rock had been surprised and killed, and the spectacle of twenty corpses would suggest to others that they were attacked by a numerous force. The success of the adventure was aided by a panic that struck the enemy, produced both by the sudden surprise and the shock of an earthquake. The feat was begun and achieved by the faith of Jonathan, and the issue was of God.

14-15. that first slaughter, which Jonathan and his armour-bearer made, was about twenty men, within as it were an half acre of land, which a yoke of oxen might plow-- This was a very ancient mode of measurement, and it still subsists in the East. The men who saw them scrambling up the rock had been surprised and killed, and the spectacle of twenty corpses would suggest to others that they were attacked by a numerous force. The success of the adventure was aided by a panic that struck the enemy, produced both by the sudden surprise and the shock of an earthquake. The feat was begun and achieved by the faith of Jonathan, and the issue was of God.


<hi type="bold">16. the watchmen of Saul ... looked--</hi>The wild disorder in the enemies' camp was described and the noise of dismay heard on the heights of Gibeah.

16. the watchmen of Saul... looked-- The wild disorder in the enemies' camp was described and the noise of dismay heard on the heights of Gibeah.


<hi type="bold">17-19. Then said Saul unto the people that were with him, Number now, and see who is gone from us--</hi>The idea occurred to him that it might be some daring adventurer belonging to his own little troop, and it would be easy to discover him.

17-19. Then said Saul unto the people that were with him, Number now, and see who is gone from us-- The idea occurred to him that it might be some daring adventurer belonging to his own little troop, and it would be easy to discover him.


<hi type="bold">20-22. Saul and all the people--</hi>All the warriors in the garrison at Gibeah, the Israelite deserters in the camp of the Philistines, and the fugitives among the mountains of Ephraim, now all rushed to the pursuit, which was hot and sanguinary.

20-22. Saul and all the people-- All the warriors in the garrison at Gibeah, the Israelite deserters in the camp of the Philistines, and the fugitives among the mountains of Ephraim, now all rushed to the pursuit, which was hot and sanguinary.


<hi type="bold">23. So the Lord saved Israel that day: and the battle passed over unto Beth-aven--</hi>that is, "Beth-el." It passed over the forest, now destroyed, on the central ridge of Palestine, then over to the other side from the eastern pass of Michmash (<reference osisRef="1Sam.14.31">1Sa 14:31</reference>), to the western pass of Aijalon, through which they escaped into their own plains.

23. So the Lord saved Israel that day: and the battle passed over unto Beth-aven-- that is, "Beth-el." It passed over the forest, now destroyed, on the central ridge of Palestine, then over to the other side from the eastern pass of Michmash (1Sa 14:31), to the western pass of Aijalon, through which they escaped into their own plains.


<hi type="bold">24. Saul had adjured the people--</hi>Afraid lest so precious an opportunity of effectually humbling the Philistine power might be lost, the impetuous king laid an anathema on any one who should taste food until the evening. This rash and foolish denunciation distressed the people, by preventing them taking such refreshments as they might get on the march, and materially hindered the successful attainment of his own patriotic object.

24. Saul had adjured the people-- Afraid lest so precious an opportunity of effectually humbling the Philistine power might be lost, the impetuous king laid an anathema on any one who should taste food until the evening. This rash and foolish denunciation distressed the people, by preventing them taking such refreshments as they might get on the march, and materially hindered the successful attainment of his own patriotic object.


<hi type="bold">25. all they of the land came to a wood; and there was honey--</hi>The honey is described as "upon the ground," "dropping" from the trees, and in honeycombs--indicating it to be bees' honey. "Bees in the East are not, as in England, kept in hives; they are all in a wild state. The forests literally flow with honey; large combs may be seen hanging on the trees as you pass along, full of honey" [Roberts].

25. all they of the land came to a wood; and there was honey-- The honey is described as "upon the ground," "dropping" from the trees, and in honeycombs--indicating it to be bees' honey. "Bees in the East are not, as in England, kept in hives; they are all in a wild state. The forests literally flow with honey; large combs may be seen hanging on the trees as you pass along, full of honey" [Roberts].


<hi type="bold">31-34. the people were very faint. And the people flew upon the spoil--</hi>at evening, when the time fixed by Saul had expired. Faint and famishing, the pursuers fell voraciously upon the cattle they had taken, and threw them on the ground to cut off their flesh and eat them raw, so that the army, by Saul's rashness, were defiled by eating blood, or living animals; probably, as the Abyssinians do, who cut a part of the animal's rump, but close the hide upon it, and nothing mortal follows from that wound. They were painfully conscientious in keeping the king's order for fear of the curse, but had no scruple in transgressing God's command. To prevent this violation of the law, Saul ordered a large stone to be rolled, and those that slaughtered the oxen to cut their throats on that stone. By laying the animal's head on the high stone, the blood oozed out on the ground, and sufficient evidence was afforded that the ox or sheep was dead before it was attempted to eat it.

31-34. the people were very faint. And the people flew upon the spoil-- at evening, when the time fixed by Saul had expired. Faint and famishing, the pursuers fell voraciously upon the cattle they had taken, and threw them on the ground to cut off their flesh and eat them raw, so that the army, by Saul's rashness, were defiled by eating blood, or living animals; probably, as the Abyssinians do, who cut a part of the animal's rump, but close the hide upon it, and nothing mortal follows from that wound. They were painfully conscientious in keeping the king's order for fear of the curse, but had no scruple in transgressing God's command. To prevent this violation of the law, Saul ordered a large stone to be rolled, and those that slaughtered the oxen to cut their throats on that stone. By laying the animal's head on the high stone, the blood oozed out on the ground, and sufficient evidence was afforded that the ox or sheep was dead before it was attempted to eat it.


<hi type="bold">45. the people rescued Jonathan, that he died not--</hi>When Saul became aware of Jonathan's transgression in regard to the honey, albeit it was done in ignorance and involved no guilt, he was, like Jephthah [Jud 11:31, 35], about to put his son to death, in conformity with his vow [1Sa 14:44]. But the more enlightened conscience of the army prevented the tarnishing the glory of the day by the blood of the young hero, to whose faith and valor it was chiefly due.

45. the people rescued Jonathan, that he died not-- When Saul became aware of Jonathan's transgression in regard to the honey, albeit it was done in ignorance and involved no guilt, he was, like Jephthah [Jud 11:31, 35], about to put his son to death, in conformity with his vow [1Sa 14:44]. But the more enlightened conscience of the army prevented the tarnishing the glory of the day by the blood of the young hero, to whose faith and valor it was chiefly due.


<hi type="bold">47-48. So Saul ... fought against all his enemies on every side--</hi>This signal triumph over the Philistines was followed, not only by their expulsion from the land of Israel, but by successful incursions against various hostile neighbors, whom he harassed though he did not subdue them. <chapter eID="1Sam.14"/>

47-48. So Saul... fought against all his enemies on every side-- This signal triumph over the Philistines was followed, not only by their expulsion from the land of Israel, but by successful incursions against various hostile neighbors, whom he harassed though he did not subdue them.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 15</title>
 <reference osisRef="1Sam.15.1-1Sam.15.6">1Sa 15:1-6</reference>. Saul Sent to Destroy Amalek.

<hi type="bold">1. Samuel also said unto Saul, The Lord sent me to anoint thee ...: now therefore hearken thou unto ... the Lord--</hi>Several years had been passed in successful military operations against troublesome neighbors. During these Saul had been left to act in a great measure at his own discretion as an independent prince. Now a second test is proposed of his possessing the character of a theocratic monarch in Israel; and in announcing the duty required of him, Samuel brought before him his official station as the Lord's vicegerent, and the peculiar obligation under which he was laid to act in that capacity. He had formerly done wrong, for which a severe rebuke and threatening were administered to him (<reference osisRef="1Sam.13.13">1Sa 13:13</reference>, <reference osisRef="1Sam.13.14">14</reference>). Now an opportunity was afforded him of retrieving that error by an exact obedience to the divine command.

CHAPTER 15 1Sa 15:1-6. Saul Sent to Destroy Amalek. 1. Samuel also said unto Saul, The Lord sent me to anoint thee...: now therefore hearken thou unto... the Lord-- Several years had been passed in successful military operations against troublesome neighbors. During these Saul had been left to act in a great measure at his own discretion as an independent prince. Now a second test is proposed of his possessing the character of a theocratic monarch in Israel; and in announcing the duty required of him, Samuel brought before him his official station as the Lord's vicegerent, and the peculiar obligation under which he was laid to act in that capacity. He had formerly done wrong, for which a severe rebuke and threatening were administered to him (1Sa 13:13, 14). Now an opportunity was afforded him of retrieving that error by an exact obedience to the divine command.


<hi type="bold">2-3. Amalek--</hi>the powerful tribe which inhabited the country immediately to the eastward of the northern Cushites. Their territory extended over the whole of the eastern portion of the desert of Sinai to Rephidim--the earliest opponent (<reference osisRef="Deut.25.18">De 25:18</reference>; <reference osisRef="Exod.17.8-Exod.17.16">Ex 17:8-16</reference>)--the hereditary and restless enemy of Israel (<reference osisRef="Num.14.45">Nu 14:45</reference>; <reference osisRef="Judg.3.13">Jud 3:13</reference>; <reference osisRef="Judg.6.3">6:3</reference>), and who had not repented (<reference osisRef="1Sam.14.48">1Sa 14:48</reference>) of their bitter and sleepless hatred during the five hundred years that had elapsed since their doom was pronounced. Being a people of nomadic habits, they were as plundering and dangerous as the Bedouin Arabs, particularly to the southern tribes. The national interest required, and God, as King of Israel, decreed that this public enemy should be removed. Their destruction was to be without reservation or exception.

<hi type="bold">I remember--</hi>I am reminded of what Amalek did--perhaps by the still remaining trophy or memorial erected by Moses (<reference osisRef="Exod.17.15">Ex 17:15</reference>, <reference osisRef="Exod.17.16">16</reference>).

2-3. Amalek-- the powerful tribe which inhabited the country immediately to the eastward of the northern Cushites. Their territory extended over the whole of the eastern portion of the desert of Sinai to Rephidim--the earliest opponent (De 25:18; Ex 17:8-16)--the hereditary and restless enemy of Israel (Nu 14:45; Jud 3:13; 6:3), and who had not repented (1Sa 14:48) of their bitter and sleepless hatred during the five hundred years that had elapsed since their doom was pronounced. Being a people of nomadic habits, they were as plundering and dangerous as the Bedouin Arabs, particularly to the southern tribes. The national interest required, and God, as King of Israel, decreed that this public enemy should be removed. Their destruction was to be without reservation or exception. I remember-- I am reminded of what Amalek did--perhaps by the still remaining trophy or memorial erected by Moses (Ex 17:15, 16).


<hi type="bold">4. Saul gathered the people together--</hi>The alacrity with which he entered on the necessary preparations for the expedition gave a fair, but delusive promise of faithfulness in its execution.

<hi type="bold">Telaim--</hi>or Telem, among the uttermost cities of the tribe of Judah towards the coast of Edom (<reference osisRef="Josh.15.21">Jos 15:21</reference>, <reference osisRef="Josh.15.24">24</reference>).

4. Saul gathered the people together-- The alacrity with which he entered on the necessary preparations for the expedition gave a fair, but delusive promise of faithfulness in its execution. Telaim-- or Telem, among the uttermost cities of the tribe of Judah towards the coast of Edom (Jos 15:21, 24).


<hi type="bold">5. Saul came to a city of Amalek--</hi>probably their capital.

<hi type="bold">laid wait in the valley--</hi>following the strategic policy of Joshua at Ai (<reference osisRef="Josh.8.4">Jos 8:4</reference>).

5. Saul came to a city of Amalek-- probably their capital. laid wait in the valley-- following the strategic policy of Joshua at Ai (Jos 8:4).


<hi type="bold">6. Kenites--</hi>(See on <reference osisRef="Judg.1.16">Jud 1:16</reference>). In consequence, probably, of the unsettled state of Judah, they seem to have returned to their old desert tracts. Though now intermingled with the Amalekites, they were not implicated in the offenses of that wicked race; but for the sake of their ancestors, between whom and those of Israel there had been a league of amity, a timely warning was afforded them to remove from the scene of danger.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.15.7-1Sam.15.9">1Sa 15:7-9</reference>. He Spares Agag and the Best of the Spoil.

6. Kenites-- (See on Jud 1:16). In consequence, probably, of the unsettled state of Judah, they seem to have returned to their old desert tracts. Though now intermingled with the Amalekites, they were not implicated in the offenses of that wicked race; but for the sake of their ancestors, between whom and those of Israel there had been a league of amity, a timely warning was afforded them to remove from the scene of danger. 1Sa 15:7-9. He Spares Agag and the Best of the Spoil.


<hi type="bold">7-9. Saul smote the Amalekites--</hi>His own view of the proper and expedient course to follow was his rule, not the command of God.

7-9. Saul smote the Amalekites-- His own view of the proper and expedient course to follow was his rule, not the command of God.


<hi type="bold">10-11. Then came the word of the Lord unto Samuel, saying, It repenteth me that I have set up Saul--</hi>Repentance is attributed in Scripture to Him when bad men give Him cause to alter His course and method of procedure, and to treat them as if He did "repent" of kindness shown. To the heart of a man like Samuel, who was above all envious considerations, and really attached to the king, so painful an announcement moved all his pity and led him to pass a sleepless night of earnest intercession.

10-11. Then came the word of the Lord unto Samuel, saying, It repenteth me that I have set up Saul-- Repentance is attributed in Scripture to Him when bad men give Him cause to alter His course and method of procedure, and to treat them as if He did "repent" of kindness shown. To the heart of a man like Samuel, who was above all envious considerations, and really attached to the king, so painful an announcement moved all his pity and led him to pass a sleepless night of earnest intercession.


<hi type="bold">12. Saul came to Carmel--</hi>in the south of Judah (<reference osisRef="Josh.15.55">Jos 15:55</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Sam.25.2">1Sa 25:2</reference>).

<hi type="bold">he set him up a place--</hi>that is, a pillar (<reference osisRef="2Sam.18.18">2Sa 18:18</reference>); literally, a hand, indicating that whatever was the form of the monument, it was surmounted, according to the ancient fashion, by the figure of a hand, the symbol of power and energy. The erection of this vainglorious trophy was an additional act of disobedience. His pride had overborne his sense of duty in first raising this monument to his own honor, and then going to Gilgal to offer sacrifice to God.

12. Saul came to Carmel-- in the south of Judah (Jos 15:55; 1Sa 25:2). he set him up a place-- that is, a pillar (2Sa 18:18); literally, a hand, indicating that whatever was the form of the monument, it was surmounted, according to the ancient fashion, by the figure of a hand, the symbol of power and energy. The erection of this vainglorious trophy was an additional act of disobedience. His pride had overborne his sense of duty in first raising this monument to his own honor, and then going to Gilgal to offer sacrifice to God.


<hi type="bold">13-23. Saul said unto him, Blessed be thou of the Lord: I have performed the commandment of the Lord--</hi>Saul was either blinded by a partial and delusive self-love, or he was, in his declaration to Samuel, acting the part of a bold and artful hypocrite. He professed to have fulfilled the divine command, and that the blame of any defects in the execution lay with the people. Samuel saw the real state of the case, and in discharge of the commission he had received before setting out, proceeded to denounce his conduct as characterized by pride, rebellion, and obstinate disobedience. When Saul persisted in declaring that he had obeyed, alleging that the animals, whose bleating was heard, had been reserved for a liberal sacrifice of thanksgiving to God, his shuffling, prevaricating answer called forth a stern rebuke from the prophet. It well deserved it--for the destination of the spoil to the altar was a flimsy pretext--a gross deception, an attempt to conceal the selfishness of the original motive under the cloak of religious zeal and gratitude.

13-23. Saul said unto him, Blessed be thou of the Lord: I have performed the commandment of the Lord-- Saul was either blinded by a partial and delusive self-love, or he was, in his declaration to Samuel, acting the part of a bold and artful hypocrite. He professed to have fulfilled the divine command, and that the blame of any defects in the execution lay with the people. Samuel saw the real state of the case, and in discharge of the commission he had received before setting out, proceeded to denounce his conduct as characterized by pride, rebellion, and obstinate disobedience. When Saul persisted in declaring that he had obeyed, alleging that the animals, whose bleating was heard, had been reserved for a liberal sacrifice of thanksgiving to God, his shuffling, prevaricating answer called forth a stern rebuke from the prophet. It well deserved it--for the destination of the spoil to the altar was a flimsy pretext--a gross deception, an attempt to conceal the selfishness of the original motive under the cloak of religious zeal and gratitude.


<hi type="bold">24-26. I have sinned ... turn again with me, that I may worship the Lord--</hi>The erring, but proud and obstinate monarch was now humbled. He was conscience-smitten for the moment, but his confession proceeded not from sincere repentance, but from a sense of danger and desire of averting the sentence denounced against him. For the sake of public appearance, he besought Samuel not to allow their serious differences to transpire, but to join with him in a public act of worship. Under the influence of his painfully agitated feelings, he designed to offer sacrifice, partly to express his gratitude for the recent victory, and partly to implore mercy and a reversal of his doom. It was, from another angle, a politic scheme, that Samuel might be betrayed into a countenancing of his design in reserving the cattle for sacrificing. Samuel declined to accompany him.

<hi type="bold">I feared the people, and obeyed their voice--</hi>This was a different reason from the former he had assigned. It was the language of a man driven to extremities, and even had it been true, the principles expounded by Samuel showed that it could have been no extenuation of the offense. The prophet then pronounced the irreversible sentence of the rejection of Saul and his family. He was judicially cut off for his disobedience.

24-26. I have sinned... turn again with me, that I may worship the Lord-- The erring, but proud and obstinate monarch was now humbled. He was conscience-smitten for the moment, but his confession proceeded not from sincere repentance, but from a sense of danger and desire of averting the sentence denounced against him. For the sake of public appearance, he besought Samuel not to allow their serious differences to transpire, but to join with him in a public act of worship. Under the influence of his painfully agitated feelings, he designed to offer sacrifice, partly to express his gratitude for the recent victory, and partly to implore mercy and a reversal of his doom. It was, from another angle, a politic scheme, that Samuel might be betrayed into a countenancing of his design in reserving the cattle for sacrificing. Samuel declined to accompany him. I feared the people, and obeyed their voice-- This was a different reason from the former he had assigned. It was the language of a man driven to extremities, and even had it been true, the principles expounded by Samuel showed that it could have been no extenuation of the offense. The prophet then pronounced the irreversible sentence of the rejection of Saul and his family. He was judicially cut off for his disobedience.


<hi type="bold">27-28. he laid hold upon the skirt of his mantle--</hi>the moil, upper tunic, official robe. In an agony of mental excitement, he took hold of the prophet's dress to detain him; the rending of the mantle [1Sa 15:27] was adroitly pointed to as a significant and mystical representation of his severance from the throne.

27-28. he laid hold upon the skirt of his mantle-- the moil, upper tunic, official robe. In an agony of mental excitement, he took hold of the prophet's dress to detain him; the rending of the mantle [1Sa 15:27] was adroitly pointed to as a significant and mystical representation of his severance from the throne.


<hi type="bold">29. the Strength of Israel will not lie--</hi>Hebrew, "He that gives a victory to Israel," a further rebuke of his pride in rearing the Carmel trophy, and an intimation that no loss would be sustained in Israel by his rejection.

29. the Strength of Israel will not lie-- Hebrew, "He that gives a victory to Israel," a further rebuke of his pride in rearing the Carmel trophy, and an intimation that no loss would be sustained in Israel by his rejection.


<hi type="bold">31. Samuel turned again after Saul--</hi>not to worship along with him; but first, that the people might have no ground, on pretense of Saul's rejection, to withdraw their allegiance from him; and secondly, to compensate for Saul's error, by executing God's judgment upon Agag.

31. Samuel turned again after Saul-- not to worship along with him; but first, that the people might have no ground, on pretense of Saul's rejection, to withdraw their allegiance from him; and secondly, to compensate for Saul's error, by executing God's judgment upon Agag.


<hi type="bold">32. Agag came unto him delicately--</hi>or cheerfully, since he had gained the favor and protection of the king.

32. Agag came unto him delicately-- or cheerfully, since he had gained the favor and protection of the king.


<hi type="bold">33. Samuel hewed Agag--</hi>This cruel tyrant met the retribution of a righteous Providence. Never has it been unusual for great or official personages in the East to perform executions with their own hands. Samuel did it "before the Lord" in Gilgal, appointing that same mode of punishment (hitherto unknown in Israel) to be used towards him, which he had formerly used towards others. <chapter eID="1Sam.15"/>

33. Samuel hewed Agag-- This cruel tyrant met the retribution of a righteous Providence. Never has it been unusual for great or official personages in the East to perform executions with their own hands. Samuel did it "before the Lord" in Gilgal, appointing that same mode of punishment (hitherto unknown in Israel) to be used towards him, which he had formerly used towards others.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 16</title>
 <reference osisRef="1Sam.16.1-1Sam.16.10">1Sa 16:1-10</reference>. Samuel Sent by God to Bethlehem.

<hi type="bold">1. the Lord said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul--</hi>Samuel's grief on account of Saul's rejection, accompanied, doubtless, by earnest prayers for his restitution, showed the amiable feelings of the man; but they were at variance with his public duty as a prophet. The declared purpose of God to transfer the kingdom of Israel into other hands than Saul's was not an angry menace, but a fixed and immutable decree; so that Samuel ought to have sooner submitted to the peremptory manifestation of the divine will. But to leave him no longer room to doubt of its being unalterable, he was sent on a private mission to anoint a successor to Saul (see on <reference osisRef="1Sam.10.1">1Sa 10:1</reference>). The immediate designation of a king was of the greatest importance for the interests of the nation in the event of Saul's death, which, to this time, was dreaded; it would establish David's title and comfort the minds of Samuel and other good men with a right settlement, whatever contingency might happen.

<hi type="bold">I have provided me a king--</hi>The language is remarkable, and intimates a difference between this and the former king. Saul was the people's choice, the fruit of their wayward and sinful desires for their own honor and aggrandizement. The next was to be a king who would consult the divine glory, and selected from that tribe to which the pre-eminence had been early promised (<reference osisRef="Gen.49.10">Ge 49:10</reference>).

CHAPTER 16 1Sa 16:1-10. Samuel Sent by God to Bethlehem. 1. the Lord said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul-- Samuel's grief on account of Saul's rejection, accompanied, doubtless, by earnest prayers for his restitution, showed the amiable feelings of the man; but they were at variance with his public duty as a prophet. The declared purpose of God to transfer the kingdom of Israel into other hands than Saul's was not an angry menace, but a fixed and immutable decree; so that Samuel ought to have sooner submitted to the peremptory manifestation of the divine will. But to leave him no longer room to doubt of its being unalterable, he was sent on a private mission to anoint a successor to Saul (see on 1Sa 10:1). The immediate designation of a king was of the greatest importance for the interests of the nation in the event of Saul's death, which, to this time, was dreaded; it would establish David's title and comfort the minds of Samuel and other good men with a right settlement, whatever contingency might happen. I have provided me a king-- The language is remarkable, and intimates a difference between this and the former king. Saul was the people's choice, the fruit of their wayward and sinful desires for their own honor and aggrandizement. The next was to be a king who would consult the divine glory, and selected from that tribe to which the pre-eminence had been early promised (Ge 49:10).


<hi type="bold">2. How can I go?--</hi>This is another instance of human infirmity in Samuel. Since God had sent him on this mission, He would protect him in the execution.

<hi type="bold">I am come to sacrifice--</hi>It seems to have been customary with Samuel to do this in the different circuits to which he went, that he might encourage the worship of God.

2. How can I go?-- This is another instance of human infirmity in Samuel. Since God had sent him on this mission, He would protect him in the execution. I am come to sacrifice-- It seems to have been customary with Samuel to do this in the different circuits to which he went, that he might encourage the worship of God.


<hi type="bold">3. call Jesse to the sacrifice--</hi>that is, the social feast that followed the peace offering. Samuel, being the offerer, had a right to invite any guest he pleased.

3. call Jesse to the sacrifice-- that is, the social feast that followed the peace offering. Samuel, being the offerer, had a right to invite any guest he pleased.


<hi type="bold">4. the elders of the town trembled at his coming--</hi>Beth-lehem was an obscure town, and not within the usual circuit of the judge. The elders were naturally apprehensive, therefore, that his arrival was occasioned by some extraordinary reason, and that it might entail evil upon their town, in consequence of the estrangement between Samuel and the king.

4. the elders of the town trembled at his coming-- Beth-lehem was an obscure town, and not within the usual circuit of the judge. The elders were naturally apprehensive, therefore, that his arrival was occasioned by some extraordinary reason, and that it might entail evil upon their town, in consequence of the estrangement between Samuel and the king.


<hi type="bold">5. sanctify yourselves--</hi>by the preparations described (<reference osisRef="Exod.19.14">Ex 19:14</reference>, <reference osisRef="Exod.19.15">15</reference>). The elders were to sanctify themselves. Samuel himself took the greatest care in the sanctification of Jesse's family. Some, however, think that the former were invited only to join in the sacrifice, while the family of Jesse were invited by themselves to the subsequent feast.

5. sanctify yourselves-- by the preparations described (Ex 19:14, 15). The elders were to sanctify themselves. Samuel himself took the greatest care in the sanctification of Jesse's family. Some, however, think that the former were invited only to join in the sacrifice, while the family of Jesse were invited by themselves to the subsequent feast.


<hi type="bold">6-10. Samuel said, Surely the Lord's anointed is before him--</hi>Here Samuel, in consequence of taking his impressions from the external appearance, falls into the same error as formerly (<reference osisRef="1Sam.10.24">1Sa 10:24</reference>).

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.16.11-1Sam.16.14">1Sa 16:11-14</reference>. He Anoints David.

6-10. Samuel said, Surely the Lord's anointed is before him-- Here Samuel, in consequence of taking his impressions from the external appearance, falls into the same error as formerly (1Sa 10:24). 1Sa 16:11-14. He Anoints David.


<hi type="bold">11. There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep--</hi>Jesse having evidently no idea of David's wisdom and bravery, spoke of him as the most unfit. God, in His providence, so ordered it, that the appointment of David might the more clearly appear to be a divine purpose, and not the design either of Samuel or Jesse. David having not been sanctified with the rest of his family, it is probable that he returned to his pastoral duties the moment the special business on which he had been summoned was done.

11. There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep-- Jesse having evidently no idea of David's wisdom and bravery, spoke of him as the most unfit. God, in His providence, so ordered it, that the appointment of David might the more clearly appear to be a divine purpose, and not the design either of Samuel or Jesse. David having not been sanctified with the rest of his family, it is probable that he returned to his pastoral duties the moment the special business on which he had been summoned was done.


<hi type="bold">12. he was ruddy, &c.--</hi>Josephus says that David was ten, while most modern commentators are of the opinion that he must have been fifteen years of age.

12. he was ruddy, &c.-- Josephus says that David was ten, while most modern commentators are of the opinion that he must have been fifteen years of age.


<hi type="bold">13. Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him--</hi>This transaction must have been strictly private.

13. Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him-- This transaction must have been strictly private.


<hi type="bold">14-18. The Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him--</hi>His own gloomy reflections, the consciousness that he had not acted up to the character of an Israelitish king, the loss of his throne, and the extinction of his royal house, made him jealous, irritable, vindictive, and subject to fits of morbid melancholy.

14-18. The Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him-- His own gloomy reflections, the consciousness that he had not acted up to the character of an Israelitish king, the loss of his throne, and the extinction of his royal house, made him jealous, irritable, vindictive, and subject to fits of morbid melancholy.


<hi type="bold">19. Saul sent messengers unto Jesse, and said, Send me David--</hi>In the East the command of a king is imperative; and Jesse, however reluctant and alarmed, had no alternative but to comply.

19. Saul sent messengers unto Jesse, and said, Send me David-- In the East the command of a king is imperative; and Jesse, however reluctant and alarmed, had no alternative but to comply.


<hi type="bold">20. Jesse took an ass laden with bread, and a bottle of wine, and a kid, and sent them ... unto Saul--</hi>as a token of homage and respect.

20. Jesse took an ass laden with bread, and a bottle of wine, and a kid, and sent them... unto Saul-- as a token of homage and respect.


<hi type="bold">21. David came to Saul--</hi>Providence thus prepared David for his destiny, by placing him in a way to become acquainted with the manners of the court, the business of government, and the general state of the kingdom.

<hi type="bold">became his armour-bearer--</hi>This choice, as being an expression of the king's partiality, shows how honorable the office was held to be.

21. David came to Saul-- Providence thus prepared David for his destiny, by placing him in a way to become acquainted with the manners of the court, the business of government, and the general state of the kingdom. became his armour-bearer-- This choice, as being an expression of the king's partiality, shows how honorable the office was held to be.


<hi type="bold">23. David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well--</hi>The ancients believed that music had a mysterious influence in healing mental disorders. <chapter eID="1Sam.16"/>

23. David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well-- The ancients believed that music had a mysterious influence in healing mental disorders.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 17</title>
 <reference osisRef="1Sam.17.1-1Sam.17.3">1Sa 17:1-3</reference>. The Israelites and Philistines Being Ready to Battle.

<hi type="bold">1. the Philistines gathered together their armies--</hi>twenty-seven years after their overthrow at Michmash. Having now recovered their spirits and strength, they sought an opportunity of wiping out the infamy of that national disaster, as well as to regain their lost ascendency over Israel.

<hi type="bold">Shocoh--</hi>now Shuweikeh, a town in the western plains of Judah (<reference osisRef="Josh.15.35">Jos 15:35</reference>), nine Roman miles from Eleutheropolis, toward Jerusalem [Robinson].

<hi type="bold">Azekah--</hi>a small place in the neighborhood.

<hi type="bold">Ephes-dammim--</hi>or, "Pas-dammim" (<reference osisRef="1Chr.11.13">1Ch 11:13</reference>), "the portion" or "effusion of blood," situated between the other two.

CHAPTER 17 1Sa 17:1-3. The Israelites and Philistines Being Ready to Battle. 1. the Philistines gathered together their armies-- twenty-seven years after their overthrow at Michmash. Having now recovered their spirits and strength, they sought an opportunity of wiping out the infamy of that national disaster, as well as to regain their lost ascendency over Israel. Shocoh-- now Shuweikeh, a town in the western plains of Judah (Jos 15:35), nine Roman miles from Eleutheropolis, toward Jerusalem [Robinson]. Azekah-- a small place in the neighborhood. Ephes-dammim-- or, "Pas-dammim" (1Ch 11:13), "the portion" or "effusion of blood," situated between the other two.


<hi type="bold">2. valley of Elah--</hi>that is, "the Terebinth," now Wady Er-Sumt [Robinson]. Another valley somewhat to the north, now called Wady Beit Hanina, has been fixed on by the tradition of ages.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.17.4-1Sam.17.11">1Sa 17:4-11</reference>. Goliath Challenges a Combat.

2. valley of Elah-- that is, "the Terebinth," now Wady Er-Sumt [Robinson]. Another valley somewhat to the north, now called Wady Beit Hanina, has been fixed on by the tradition of ages. 1Sa 17:4-11. Goliath Challenges a Combat.


<hi type="bold">4-11. a champion--</hi>Hebrew, a "man between two"; that is, a person who, on the part of his own people, undertook to determine the national quarrel by engaging in single combat with a chosen warrior in the hostile army.

4-11. a champion-- Hebrew, a "man between two"; that is, a person who, on the part of his own people, undertook to determine the national quarrel by engaging in single combat with a chosen warrior in the hostile army.


<hi type="bold">17. Take now for thy brethren an ephah of this parched corn, and these ten loaves--</hi>In those times campaigns seldom lasted above a few days at a time. The soldiers were volunteers or militia, who were supplied with provisions from time to time by their friends at home.

17. Take now for thy brethren an ephah of this parched corn, and these ten loaves-- In those times campaigns seldom lasted above a few days at a time. The soldiers were volunteers or militia, who were supplied with provisions from time to time by their friends at home.


<hi type="bold">18. carry these ten cheeses to the captain--</hi>to enlist his kind attention. Oriental cheeses are very small; and although they are frequently made of so soft a consistence as to resemble curds, those which David carried seem to have been fully formed, pressed, and sufficiently dried to admit of their being carried.

<hi type="bold">take their pledge--</hi>Tokens of the soldiers' health and safety were sent home in the convenient form of a lock of their hair, or piece of their nail, or such like.

18. carry these ten cheeses to the captain-- to enlist his kind attention. Oriental cheeses are very small; and although they are frequently made of so soft a consistence as to resemble curds, those which David carried seem to have been fully formed, pressed, and sufficiently dried to admit of their being carried. take their pledge-- Tokens of the soldiers' health and safety were sent home in the convenient form of a lock of their hair, or piece of their nail, or such like.


<hi type="bold">20. David left the sheep with a keeper--</hi>This is the only instance in which the hired shepherd is distinguished from the master or one of his family.

<hi type="bold">trench--</hi>some feeble attempt at a rampart. It appears (see Margin) to have been formed by a line of carts or chariots, which, from the earliest times, was the practice of nomad people.

20. David left the sheep with a keeper-- This is the only instance in which the hired shepherd is distinguished from the master or one of his family. trench-- some feeble attempt at a rampart. It appears (see Margin) to have been formed by a line of carts or chariots, which, from the earliest times, was the practice of nomad people.


<hi type="bold">22. left his carriage in the hand of the keeper of the carriage--</hi>to make his way to the standard of Judah.

22. left his carriage in the hand of the keeper of the carriage-- to make his way to the standard of Judah.


<hi type="bold">25. make his father's house free in Israel--</hi>His family should be exempted from the impositions and services to which the general body of the Israelites were subjected.

25. make his father's house free in Israel-- His family should be exempted from the impositions and services to which the general body of the Israelites were subjected.


<hi type="bold">34-36. a lion, and a bear--</hi>There were two different rencontres, for those animals prowl alone. The bear must have been a Syrian bear, which is believed to be a distinct species, or perhaps a variety, of the brown bear. The beard applies to the lion alone. Those feats seem to have been performed with no weapons more effective than the rude staves and stones of the field, or his shepherd's crook.

34-36. a lion, and a bear-- There were two different rencontres, for those animals prowl alone. The bear must have been a Syrian bear, which is believed to be a distinct species, or perhaps a variety, of the brown bear. The beard applies to the lion alone. Those feats seem to have been performed with no weapons more effective than the rude staves and stones of the field, or his shepherd's crook.


<hi type="bold">37. The Lord that delivered me--</hi>It would have been natural for a youth, and especially an Oriental youth, to make a parade of his gallantry. But David's piety sank all consideration of his own prowess and ascribed the success of those achievements to the divine aid, which he felt assured would not be withheld from him in a cause which so intimately concerned the safety and honor of His people.

<hi type="bold">Saul said unto David, Go, and the Lord be with thee--</hi>The pious language of the modest but valiant youth impressed the monarch's heart. He felt that it indicated the true military confidence for Israel, and, therefore, made up his mind, without any demur, to sanction a combat on which the fate of his kingdom depended, and with a champion supporting his interests apparently so unequal to the task.

37. The Lord that delivered me-- It would have been natural for a youth, and especially an Oriental youth, to make a parade of his gallantry. But David's piety sank all consideration of his own prowess and ascribed the success of those achievements to the divine aid, which he felt assured would not be withheld from him in a cause which so intimately concerned the safety and honor of His people. Saul said unto David, Go, and the Lord be with thee-- The pious language of the modest but valiant youth impressed the monarch's heart. He felt that it indicated the true military confidence for Israel, and, therefore, made up his mind, without any demur, to sanction a combat on which the fate of his kingdom depended, and with a champion supporting his interests apparently so unequal to the task.


<hi type="bold">38-39. Saul armed David with his armour--</hi>The ancient Hebrews were particularly attentive to the personal safety of their warriors, and hence Saul equipped the youthful champion with his own defensive accoutrements, which would be of the best style. It is probable that Saul's coat of mail, or corslet, was a loose shirt, otherwise it could not have fitted both a stripling and a man of the colossal stature of the king.

38-39. Saul armed David with his armour-- The ancient Hebrews were particularly attentive to the personal safety of their warriors, and hence Saul equipped the youthful champion with his own defensive accoutrements, which would be of the best style. It is probable that Saul's coat of mail, or corslet, was a loose shirt, otherwise it could not have fitted both a stripling and a man of the colossal stature of the king.


<hi type="bold">40. brook--</hi>wady.

<hi type="bold">bag--</hi>or scrip for containing his daily food.

<hi type="bold">sling--</hi>The sling consisted of a double rope with a thong, probably of leather, to receive the stone. The slinger held a second stone in his left hand. David chose five stones, as a reserve, in case the first should fail. Shepherds in the East carry a sling and stones still, for the purpose of driving away, or killing, the enemies that prowl about the flock.

40. brook-- wady. bag-- or scrip for containing his daily food. sling-- The sling consisted of a double rope with a thong, probably of leather, to receive the stone. The slinger held a second stone in his left hand. David chose five stones, as a reserve, in case the first should fail. Shepherds in the East carry a sling and stones still, for the purpose of driving away, or killing, the enemies that prowl about the flock.


<hi type="bold">42-47. the Philistine said ... said David to the Philistine--</hi>When the two champions met, they generally made each of them a speech, and sometimes recited some verses, filled with allusions and epithets of the most opprobrious kind, hurling contempt and defiance at one another. This kind of abusive dialogue is common among the Arab combatants still. David's speech, however, presents a striking contrast to the usual strain of these invectives. It was full of pious trust, and to God he ascribed all the glory of the triumph he anticipated.

42-47. the Philistine said... said David to the Philistine-- When the two champions met, they generally made each of them a speech, and sometimes recited some verses, filled with allusions and epithets of the most opprobrious kind, hurling contempt and defiance at one another. This kind of abusive dialogue is common among the Arab combatants still. David's speech, however, presents a striking contrast to the usual strain of these invectives. It was full of pious trust, and to God he ascribed all the glory of the triumph he anticipated.


<hi type="bold">49. smote the Philistine in his forehead--</hi>At the opening for the eyes--that was the only exposed part of his body.

49. smote the Philistine in his forehead-- At the opening for the eyes--that was the only exposed part of his body.


<hi type="bold">51. cut off his head--</hi>not as an evidence of the giant's death, for his slaughter had been effected in presence of the whole army, but as a trophy to be borne to Saul. The heads of slain enemies are always regarded in the East as the most welcome tokens of victory.

51. cut off his head-- not as an evidence of the giant's death, for his slaughter had been effected in presence of the whole army, but as a trophy to be borne to Saul. The heads of slain enemies are always regarded in the East as the most welcome tokens of victory.


<hi type="bold">52. Shaaraim--</hi>(See <reference osisRef="Josh.15.36">Jos 15:36</reference>).

52. Shaaraim-- (See Jos 15:36).


<hi type="bold">54. tent--</hi>the sacred tabernacle. David dedicated the sword of Goliath as a votive offering to the Lord.

54. tent-- the sacred tabernacle. David dedicated the sword of Goliath as a votive offering to the Lord.


<hi type="bold">55-58. Saul ... said unto Abner ... whose son is this youth?--</hi>A young man is more spoken of in many Eastern countries by his father's name than his own. The growth of the beard, and other changes on a now full-grown youth, prevented the king from recognizing his former favorite minstrel [1Sa 16:23]. <chapter eID="1Sam.17"/>

55-58. Saul... said unto Abner... whose son is this youth?-- A young man is more spoken of in many Eastern countries by his father's name than his own. The growth of the beard, and other changes on a now full-grown youth, prevented the king from recognizing his former favorite minstrel [1Sa 16:23].


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 18</title>
 <reference osisRef="1Sam.18.1-1Sam.18.4">1Sa 18:1-4</reference>. Jonathan Loves David.

<hi type="bold">1. the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David--</hi>They were nearly of an age. The prince had taken little interest in David as a minstrel; but his heroism and modest, manly bearing, his piety and high endowments, kindled the flame not of admiration only, but of affection, in the congenial mind of Jonathan.

CHAPTER 18 1Sa 18:1-4. Jonathan Loves David. 1. the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David-- They were nearly of an age. The prince had taken little interest in David as a minstrel; but his heroism and modest, manly bearing, his piety and high endowments, kindled the flame not of admiration only, but of affection, in the congenial mind of Jonathan.


<hi type="bold">2. Saul would let him go no more home--</hi>He was established as a permanent resident at court.

2. Saul would let him go no more home-- He was established as a permanent resident at court.


<hi type="bold">3. Then Jonathan and David made a covenant--</hi>Such covenants of brotherhood are frequent in the East. They are ratified by certain ceremonies, and in presence of witnesses, that the persons covenanting will be sworn brothers for life.

3. Then Jonathan and David made a covenant-- Such covenants of brotherhood are frequent in the East. They are ratified by certain ceremonies, and in presence of witnesses, that the persons covenanting will be sworn brothers for life.


<hi type="bold">4. Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David--</hi>To receive any part of the dress which had been worn by a sovereign, or his eldest son and heir, is deemed, in the East, the highest honor which can be conferred on a subject (see on <reference osisRef="Esth.6.8">Es 6:8</reference>). The girdle, being connected with the sword and the bow, may be considered as being part of the military dress, and great value is attached to it in the East.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.18.5-1Sam.18.9">1Sa 18:5-9</reference>. Saul Envies His Praise.

4. Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David-- To receive any part of the dress which had been worn by a sovereign, or his eldest son and heir, is deemed, in the East, the highest honor which can be conferred on a subject (see on Es 6:8). The girdle, being connected with the sword and the bow, may be considered as being part of the military dress, and great value is attached to it in the East. 1Sa 18:5-9. Saul Envies His Praise.


<hi type="bold">6. the women came out of all cities of Israel--</hi>in the homeward march from the pursuit of the Philistines. This is a characteristic trait of Oriental manners. On the return of friends long absent, and particularly on the return of a victorious army, bands of women and children issue from the towns and villages, to form a triumphal procession, to celebrate the victory, and, as they go along, to gratify the soldiers with dancing, instrumental music, and extempore songs, in honor of the generals who have earned the highest distinction by feats of gallantry. The Hebrew women, therefore, were merely paying the customary gratulations to David as the deliverer of their country, but they committed a great indiscretion by praising a subject at the expense of their sovereign.

6. the women came out of all cities of Israel-- in the homeward march from the pursuit of the Philistines. This is a characteristic trait of Oriental manners. On the return of friends long absent, and particularly on the return of a victorious army, bands of women and children issue from the towns and villages, to form a triumphal procession, to celebrate the victory, and, as they go along, to gratify the soldiers with dancing, instrumental music, and extempore songs, in honor of the generals who have earned the highest distinction by feats of gallantry. The Hebrew women, therefore, were merely paying the customary gratulations to David as the deliverer of their country, but they committed a great indiscretion by praising a subject at the expense of their sovereign.


<hi type="bold">9. Saul eyed David--</hi>that is, invidiously, with secret and malignant hatred.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.18.10-1Sam.18.12">1Sa 18:10-12</reference>. Seeks to Kill Him.

9. Saul eyed David-- that is, invidiously, with secret and malignant hatred. 1Sa 18:10-12. Seeks to Kill Him.


<hi type="bold">10. on the morrow, that the evil spirit from God came upon Saul--</hi>This rankling thought brought on a sudden paroxysm of his mental malady.

<hi type="bold">he prophesied--</hi>The term denotes one under the influence either of a good or a bad spirit. In the present it is used to express that Saul was in a frenzy. David, perceiving the symptoms, hastened, by the soothing strains of his harp, to allay the stormy agitation of the royal mind. But before its mollifying influence could be felt, Saul hurled a javelin at the head of the young musician.

<hi type="bold">there was a javelin in Saul's hand--</hi>Had it been followed by a fatal result, the deed would have been considered the act of an irresponsible maniac. It was repeated more than once ineffectually, and Saul became impressed with a dread of David as under the special protection of Providence.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.18.13-1Sam.18.16">1Sa 18:13-16</reference>. Fears Him for His Good Success.

10. on the morrow, that the evil spirit from God came upon Saul-- This rankling thought brought on a sudden paroxysm of his mental malady. he prophesied-- The term denotes one under the influence either of a good or a bad spirit. In the present it is used to express that Saul was in a frenzy. David, perceiving the symptoms, hastened, by the soothing strains of his harp, to allay the stormy agitation of the royal mind. But before its mollifying influence could be felt, Saul hurled a javelin at the head of the young musician. there was a javelin in Saul's hand-- Had it been followed by a fatal result, the deed would have been considered the act of an irresponsible maniac. It was repeated more than once ineffectually, and Saul became impressed with a dread of David as under the special protection of Providence. 1Sa 18:13-16. Fears Him for His Good Success.


<hi type="bold">13. Therefore Saul removed him from him--</hi>sent him away from the court, where the principal persons, including his own son, were spellbound with admiration of the young and pious warrior.

<hi type="bold">made him captain over a thousand--</hi>gave him a military commission, which was intended to be an honorable exile. But this post of duty served only to draw out before the public the extraordinary and varied qualities of his character, and to give him a stronger hold of the people's affections.

 <reference osisRef="1Sam.18.17-1Sam.18.21">1Sa 18:17-21</reference>. He Offers Him His Daughter for a Snare.

13. Therefore Saul removed him from him-- sent him away from the court, where the principal persons, including his own son, were spellbound with admiration of the young and pious warrior. made him captain over a thousand-- gave him a military commission, which was intended to be an honorable exile. But this post of duty served only to draw out before the public the extraordinary and varied qualities of his character, and to give him a stronger hold of the people's affections. 1Sa 18:17-21. He Offers Him His Daughter for a Snare.


<hi type="bold">17. Saul said to David, Behold my elder daughter Merab, her will I give thee to wife--</hi>Though bound to this already [1Sa 17:25], he had found it convenient to forget his former promise. He now holds it out as a new offer, which would tempt David to give additional proofs of his valor. But the fickle and perfidious monarch broke his pledge at the time when the marriage was on the eve of being celebrated, and bestowed Merab on another man (see on <reference osisRef="2Sam.21.8">2Sa 21:8</reference>); an indignity as well as a wrong, which was calculated deeply to wound the feelings and provoke the resentment of David. Perhaps it was intended to do so, that advantage might be taken of his indiscretion. But David was preserved from this snare.

17. Saul said to David, Behold my elder daughter Merab, her will I give thee to wife-- Though bound to this already [1Sa 17:25], he had found it convenient to forget his former promise. He now holds it out as a new offer, which would tempt David to give additional proofs of his valor. But the fickle and perfidious monarch broke his pledge at the time when the marriage was on the eve of being celebrated, and bestowed Merab on another man (see on 2Sa 21:8); an indignity as well as a wrong, which was calculated deeply to wound the feelings and provoke the resentment of David. Perhaps it was intended to do so, that advantage might be taken of his indiscretion. But David was preserved from this snare.