1 Samuel 11:13

Translation
King James Version
And Saul said, There shall not a man be put to death this day: for to day the LORD hath wrought salvation in Israel.
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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.
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Complete Jewish Bible
But Sha'ul said, "No one will be put to death today, because today ADONAI has rescued Isra'el."
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Berean Standard Bible
But Saul ordered, “No one shall be put to death this day, for today the LORD has worked salvation in Israel.”
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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.
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World English Bible Messianic
Saul said, “There shall not a man be put to death this day; for today the LORD has worked deliverance in Israel.”
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Geneva Bible (1599)
But Saul said, There shall no man die this day: for to day the Lord hath saued Israel.
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Young's Literal Translation
And Saul saith, `There is no man put to death on this day, for to-day hath Jehovah wrought salvation in Israel.'
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See also
Exodus 14:131 Samuel 19:52 Samuel 19:22Exodus 14:30Psalms 44:4Psalms 44:8Isaiah 59:16
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Saul Defeats Nahash
Saul Defeats Nahash View full PDF

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In the KJVVerse 7,459 of 31,102

Study This Verse

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). 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). 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), 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.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Saul (Hebrew, Shâʼûwl', 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 (1 Samuel 8:5), 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', 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', 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', 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', 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). 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.

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. 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 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 and his failure to utterly destroy the Amalekites in 1 Samuel 15), 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). 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, 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), laying down His life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28). 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), a salvation that transcends any earthly "day" and endures for all eternity.

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Commentary on 1 Samuel 11 verses 12–15

We have here the improvement of the glorious victory which Saul had obtained, not the improvement of it abroad, though we take it for granted that the men of Jabesh-Gilead, having so narrowly saved their right eyes, would with them now discern the opportunity they had of avenging themselves upon these cruel enemies and disabling them from ever straitening them in like manner again; now shall they be avenged on the Ammonites for their right eyes condemned, as Samson on the Philistines for his two eyes put out, Jdg 16:28. But the account here given is of the improvement of this victory at home.

I. The people took this occasion to show their jealousy for the honour of Saul, and their resentment of the indignities done him. Samuel, it seems, was present, if not in the action (it was too far for him to march) yet to meet them when they returned victorious; and to him, as judge, the motion was made (for they knew Saul would not be judge in his own cause) that the sons of Belial that would not have him to reign over them should be brought forth and slain, Sa1 11:12. Saul's good fortune (as foolish men commonly call it) went further with them to confirm his title than either his choice by lot or Samuel's anointing him. They had not courage thus to move for the prosecution of those that opposed him when he himself looked mean, but, now that his victory made him look great, nothing would serve but they must be put to death.

II. Saul took this occasion to give further proofs of his clemency, for, without waiting for Samuel's answer, he himself quashed the motion (Sa1 11:13): There shall not a man be put to death this day, no, not those men, those bad men, that had abused him, and therein reflected on God himself, 1. Because it was a day of joy and triumph: "To day the Lord has wrought salvation in Israel; and, since God has been so good to us all, let us not be harsh one to another. Now that God has made the heart of Israel in general so glad, let not us make sad the hearts of any particular Israelites." 2. Because he hoped they were by this day's work brought to a better temper, were now convinced that this man, under God, could save them, now honoured him whom before they had despised; and, if they are but reclaimed, he is secured from receiving any disturbance by them, and therefore his point is gained. If an enemy be made a friend, that will be more to our advantage than to have him slain. And all good princes consider that their power is for edification, not for destruction.

III. Samuel took this occasion to call the people together before the Lord in Gilgal, Sa1 11:14, Sa1 11:15. 1. That they might publicly give God thanks for their late victory. There they rejoiced greatly, and, that God might have the praise of that which they had the comfort of, they sacrificed to him, as the giver of all their successes, sacrifices of peace-offerings. 2. That they might confirm Saul in the government, more solemnly than had been yet done, that he might not retire again to his obscurity. Samuel would have the kingdom renewed; he would renew his resignation, and the people should renew their approbation, and so in concurrence with, or rather in attendance upon, the divine nomination, they made Saul king, making it their own act and deed to submit to him.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 12–15. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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