1 Samuel 11:13

KJV

And Saul said, There shall not a man be put to death this day: for to day the LORD hath wrought salvation in Israel.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Saul {H7586} said {H559}, There shall not a man {H376} be put to death {H4191} this day {H3117}: for to day {H3117} the LORD {H3068} hath wrought {H6213} salvation {H8668} in Israel {H3478}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But Sha'ul said, "No one will be put to death today, because today ADONAI has rescued Isra'el."

Berean Standard Bible

But Saul ordered, “No one shall be put to death this day, for today the LORD has worked salvation in Israel.”

American Standard Version

And Saul said, There shall not a man be put to death this day; for to-day Jehovah hath wrought deliverance in Israel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 11:13 captures a pivotal moment in Saul's early reign, immediately following his decisive victory over the Ammonites. In this verse, Saul demonstrates remarkable humility and strategic wisdom by unequivocally rejecting the people's demand for retribution against those who had previously scorned his kingship. He attributes the entire triumph not to his own military prowess or leadership, but solely to the Lord, declaring that God Himself had "wrought salvation in Israel," thereby redirecting the focus from human vengeance to divine deliverance and establishing a tone of unity, mercy, and God-centered leadership for his nascent monarchy.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed at the climax of Saul's initial military success and the formal consolidation of his kingship. It directly follows the desperate plea from Jabesh-Gilead, Nahash the Ammonite's oppressive ultimatum, and Saul's Spirit-empowered mobilization of Israel, culminating in a resounding victory over the Ammonites (as detailed in [1 Samuel 11:1-11](/1_samuel/11-1-11 "1 Samuel 11:1-11 - Saul's Victory Over the Ammonites")). Prior to this triumph, Saul's anointing as king was met with skepticism and outright contempt by some "worthless fellows" who questioned his legitimacy ([1 Samuel 10:27](/1_samuel/10-27 "1 Samuel 10:27 - The Worthless Fellows Despise Saul")). The people, emboldened by the victory, now seek to eliminate these dissenters, presenting a critical test of Saul's leadership. His declaration in verse 13, preventing internal bloodshed, is a magnanimous act that paves the way for the formal and unanimous confirmation of his kingship at Gilgal ([1 Samuel 11:14-15](/1_samuel/11-14-15 "1 Samuel 11:14-15 - Saul Confirmed as King at Gilgal")), solidifying his position and uniting the nation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The transition of Israel from a tribal confederacy under judges to a centralized monarchy was a period marked by both external threats and internal fragmentation. "Salvation" in this ancient Near Eastern context often referred to military deliverance from enemies, a tangible act of rescue. It was common practice for newly established monarchs to consolidate power through punitive measures, including the execution of those who had opposed their ascent, especially after a significant victory. Such acts served to instill fear and ensure loyalty. Saul's decision to grant clemency, therefore, is a striking departure from typical ancient Near Eastern royal behavior. It reflects a divinely inspired restraint, choosing reconciliation and unity over a common display of vengeful power, which would have been expected by his contemporaries. This act highlights a unique aspect of Israelite kingship, ideally rooted in divine principles rather than purely human political expediency.
* **Key Themes:** The primary theme resonating through this verse is **Divine Deliverance**, as Saul explicitly and humbly attributes the overwhelming victory to the Lord. This underscores God's active, sovereign involvement in the affairs of His people, demonstrating that true power and salvation originate with Him, not with human might or strategy. Another crucial theme is **Mercy and Unity**. Despite having the popular mandate and opportunity to punish his detractors, Saul chooses forgiveness and reconciliation, prioritizing national cohesion over personal vindication or political retribution. This act prevents civil strife and fosters a sense of shared triumph. Furthermore, this verse serves as a **Confirmation of Kingship**, showcasing Saul's leadership not merely through military prowess, but through his wise, magnanimous, and God-fearing exercise of authority. His initial response sets a high standard for a king chosen by God, demonstrating qualities of humility and justice that are essential for righteous rule. This moment is a powerful illustration of the ideals for Israel's monarchy, even as Saul's later reign tragically deviates from them, as seen in passages like [1 Samuel 15](/1_samuel/15 "1 Samuel 15 - Saul's Disobedience Regarding Amalek").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Saul (Hebrew, _Shâʼûwl'_):** From H7586, this is the name of the first king of Israel, meaning "asked." His name itself carries a subtle irony, as he was "asked for" by the people (cf. [1 Samuel 8:5](/1_samuel/8-5 "1 Samuel 8:5 - Israel Asks for a King")), yet his reign ultimately demonstrates the limitations of a king chosen by human desire rather than solely by divine character. In this verse, Saul acts in a manner befitting a divinely appointed leader, exhibiting humility and wisdom.
* **day (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** From H3117, this word refers to a literal day (from sunrise to sunset or one sunset to the next), but can also figuratively denote a specific period or occasion. Here, "this day" emphasizes the immediate, momentous nature of the victory and Saul's subsequent declaration. It highlights the present, fresh act of God's intervention, making any human retribution inappropriate given the overwhelming evidence of divine favor.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** From H3068, this is the covenantal name of God, the self-Existent or Eternal One, often translated as "Jehovah" or "the Lord." Saul's use of this specific name for God underscores his recognition of the personal, active, and covenant-keeping God of Israel as the true source of their deliverance. It is a theological affirmation that the victory was not merely a stroke of luck or human genius, but the direct, intentional work of the God who had chosen and sustained Israel.
* **wrought (Hebrew, _ʻâsâh'_):** From H6213, this primitive root means "to do," "to make," "to accomplish," or "to perform." When attributed to God, as it is here, it signifies His active, intentional, and effective involvement in bringing about a particular outcome. Saul's declaration that "the LORD hath wrought salvation" is a powerful affirmation that God was the primary actor, the one who performed or accomplished this great deliverance, rather than merely assisting human efforts. It underscores God's sovereignty and agency in the historical events of Israel.
* **salvation (Hebrew, _tᵉshûwʻâh'_):** From H8668, this noun denotes rescue, deliverance, help, safety, or victory. It is not merely an absence of danger but an active intervention by a powerful agent. In this context, Saul's use of _tᵉshûwʻâh_ emphasizes that the military triumph was not a result of human strategy or strength alone, but a direct, tangible act of God's saving power on behalf of His people. It points to a divine initiative that transcends human effort, making human vengeance unnecessary and inappropriate.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Saul said, There shall not a man be put to death this day:"** This opening clause reveals Saul's immediate and decisive exercise of royal authority. The people, having just witnessed a miraculous victory, were eager to settle scores with those who had previously despised Saul's kingship ([1 Samuel 10:27](/1_samuel/10-27 "1 Samuel 10:27 - The Worthless Fellows Despise Saul")). Saul's decree of clemency prevents internal strife and potential civil unrest, demonstrating a magnanimous spirit and a desire for national unity rather than vengeful retribution. It positions him as a leader who prioritizes the well-being of the entire nation, choosing grace over the consolidation of power through fear.
* **"for to day the LORD hath wrought salvation in Israel."** This second clause provides the profound theological justification for Saul's act of mercy. By attributing the victory entirely to the Lord, Saul implicitly argues that since God Himself secured the deliverance, human vengeance is both unnecessary and inappropriate. The victory was so clearly divine that it overshadowed any human grievances or the need for human vindication. This statement reflects a moment of genuine humility and spiritual insight on Saul's part, recognizing God's ultimate sovereignty and His desire for reconciliation rather than judgment within His people. It transforms a moment of potential political opportunism into a declaration of divine glory.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Divine Attribution**, where Saul explicitly credits God for the victory, shifting the focus from human accomplishment to divine intervention. This act of humility also contains a subtle **Irony**, as Saul, who begins his reign with such a profound recognition of God's sovereignty and an act of mercy, will later famously struggle with pride, disobedience, and a vengeful spirit, ultimately leading to his tragic downfall. This initial display of grace also serves as **Foreshadowing**, setting a standard for righteous leadership that Saul himself will tragically fail to maintain, thereby highlighting the profound need for a more perfect, enduring king—one who would consistently embody divine mercy and justice. The contrast between this initial act and Saul's later actions amplifies the tragic arc of his reign.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 11:13 is a powerful testament to the biblical principle that all true deliverance, victory, and success ultimately come from God. Saul's immediate and unequivocal attribution of the triumph to the Lord underscores divine sovereignty and reminds us that human efforts, while necessary, are always secondary to God's ultimate plan and power. His subsequent act of mercy, rooted in this theological understanding, teaches that God's salvation is holistic, encompassing not only victory over external enemies but also the healing of internal divisions through forgiveness and reconciliation. This moment exemplifies a leadership that is humble, God-fearing, and unifying, setting a standard for how those in authority should wield power—not for personal gain or retribution, but for the glory of God and the welfare of His people. It reveals that true strength lies in acknowledging divine agency and extending grace.

* [Psalm 3:8](/psalm/3-8 "Psalm 3:8 - Salvation Belongs to the Lord")
* [Proverbs 19:11](/proverbs/19-11 "Proverbs 19:11 - Discretion Defers Anger")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Leave Vengeance to God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse challenges believers to cultivate a heart of profound humility and unwavering gratitude, always acknowledging God as the ultimate source of every victory, blessing, and deliverance in our lives. When we experience success, whether personal, professional, or communal, our first impulse should be to give all glory to God, recognizing that He, not our own strength or wisdom, has "wrought salvation" on our behalf. Furthermore, Saul's decision to forgo vengeance in favor of mercy, a choice directly grounded in his recognition of God's work, provides a profound and counter-cultural model for our interactions with others. In a world often driven by retribution, the desire to settle scores, and the pursuit of personal vindication, this passage calls us to extend grace, forgive those who have wronged us, and actively prioritize unity and reconciliation within our families, workplaces, churches, and broader communities. It reminds us that God's comprehensive salvation often involves healing divisions and fostering peace, reflecting His character in our responses to conflict and opposition.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life have I experienced "salvation" or deliverance, and how consistently do I attribute that success and glory to the Lord rather than myself?**
* **When faced with the opportunity to seek retribution or hold a grudge against those who have wronged me, how can I choose mercy and forgiveness, reflecting Saul's initial, God-centered example?**
* **How does Saul's initial humility and recognition of God's sovereignty inform my understanding of true leadership or influence, whether in my family, workplace, or church context?**

### FAQ
**Why did the people want to put others to death?**

Answer: The people wanted to execute those who had previously shown contempt for Saul and questioned his ability to be king, as recorded in [1 Samuel 10:27](/1_samuel/10-27 "1 Samuel 10:27 - The Worthless Fellows Despise Saul"). After Saul's decisive victory over the Ammonites, the people, caught up in the fervor of triumph, saw an opportunity to consolidate power, eliminate internal dissent, and solidify the new king's authority through punitive measures against opposition. Their demand was a common response in ancient societies seeking to establish the legitimacy of a new ruler.

**Was Saul's statement a sign of his character throughout his reign?**

Answer: Sadly, no. While [1 Samuel 11:13](/1_samuel/11-13 "1 Samuel 11:13 - Saul's Act of Clemency") showcases a moment of profound humility, wisdom, and God-centered leadership at the very beginning of his reign, Saul's character later devolves significantly. He increasingly struggles with disobedience to God's commands (e.g., his unlawful sacrifice in [1 Samuel 13](/1_samuel/13 "1 Samuel 13 - Saul's Unlawful Sacrifice") and his failure to utterly destroy the Amalekites in [1 Samuel 15](/1_samuel/15 "1 Samuel 15 - Saul's Disobedience Regarding Amalek")), succumbing to paranoia, jealousy, and a vengeful spirit (e.g., his relentless pursuit of David, his massacre of the priests of Nob in [1 Samuel 22](/1_samuel/22 "1 Samuel 22 - Saul Kills the Priests of Nob")). This initial act of clemency and attribution to God, while genuine at the time, was not consistently maintained throughout his kingship, highlighting the tragic trajectory of a leader who lost his way by failing to consistently rely on and obey the Lord.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Saul's declaration in 1 Samuel 11:13, that "the LORD hath wrought salvation in Israel," beautifully foreshadows the ultimate and perfect salvation wrought by God through Jesus Christ. While Saul's act of clemency was a temporary human decision, and his own character later faltered, Jesus, the true and eternal King, embodies perfect mercy and delivers ultimate salvation. Saul's inability to consistently maintain the righteous character displayed here points to the profound need for a flawless King who would not only bring military victory but spiritual deliverance from sin and death. Jesus is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), offering a salvation far greater than any earthly triumph over an enemy army. Unlike Saul, who chose mercy after a victory, Christ extended mercy to us while we were still His enemies ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")), laying down His life as a ransom for many ([Matthew 20:28](/matthew/20-28 "Matthew 20:28 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). His reign is characterized by unending grace, perfect justice, and a salvation that is eternal, not temporary. He is the King who always lives to intercede for His people, ensuring their complete and everlasting deliverance from sin and death ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Jesus Always Lives to Intercede")), a salvation that transcends any earthly "day" and endures for all eternity.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 14:13

And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever.

1 Samuel 19:5

For he did put his life in his hand, and slew the Philistine, and the LORD wrought a great salvation for all Israel: thou sawest [it], and didst rejoice: wherefore then wilt thou sin against innocent blood, to slay David without a cause?

2 Samuel 19:22

And David said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah, that ye should this day be adversaries unto me? shall there any man be put to death this day in Israel? for do not I know that I [am] this day king over Israel?

Exodus 14:30

Thus the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians; and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the sea shore.

Psalms 44:4

Thou art my King, O God: command deliverances for Jacob.

Psalms 44:8

In God we boast all the day long, and praise thy name for ever. Selah.

Isaiah 59:16

¶ And he saw that [there was] no man, and wondered that [there was] no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him.