1 Samuel 11:13

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

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}.

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

But Saul ordered, β€œNo one shall be put to death this day, for today the LORD has worked salvation in Israel.”

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

Commentary

1 Samuel 11:13 captures a pivotal moment in the early reign of King Saul, showcasing his initial display of humility and reliance on God immediately after a significant victory.

Context

This verse follows Saul's decisive military triumph over the Ammonites, who had besieged Jabesh-Gilead and threatened its inhabitants with cruel terms (1 Samuel 11:1-2). The victory, detailed in 1 Samuel 11:11, was overwhelming and solidified Saul's position as Israel's first king. Prior to this, some Israelites had despised Saul and questioned his ability to rule (1 Samuel 10:27), and the people now sought vengeance against them. Saul's response in this verse prevents internal bloodshed and sets a tone of unity and grace.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Deliverance: Saul immediately acknowledges that the victory was not by his own might or strategy, but because "the LORD hath wrought salvation in Israel." This recognition of God's hand in their deliverance is a crucial theological point, emphasizing divine power over human capability.
  • Mercy and Forgiveness: Despite the popular demand to execute those who had previously scorned him, Saul demonstrates remarkable mercy. He uses his newfound authority not for retribution, but for reconciliation, choosing to unite the nation rather than divide it. This act of clemency is a hallmark of good leadership.
  • Confirmation of Kingship: By attributing the victory to God and showing mercy, Saul's authority is further established and affirmed by the people. This moment helps to consolidate his leadership and secure the loyalty of the tribes.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "wrought salvation" uses the Hebrew word yesha' (י֢שַׁג), which signifies deliverance, help, or victory. It emphasizes a concrete, tangible act of rescue. Saul's declaration is not merely a pious statement but a literal observation that God Himself intervened to secure the military triumph for Israel. This highlights God's active involvement in the nation's affairs, providing salvation that belongs to the Lord.

Practical Application

This verse offers valuable lessons for believers today:

  • Attribute Success to God: Like Saul, we should acknowledge God's hand in our triumphs and blessings, giving Him the glory for any "salvation" or deliverance we experience in life.
  • Choose Mercy Over Vengeance: Even when we have the opportunity or justification for retribution, this passage encourages us to extend mercy and forgiveness, fostering unity and healing rather than perpetuating conflict. This reflects a spirit of discretion that defers anger.
  • Leadership with Humility: True leadership, as initially demonstrated by Saul, involves recognizing one's limitations and relying on a higher power, while also exercising authority with grace and wisdom for the good of all.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified 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

    ΒΆ 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.
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