1 Samuel 11:14

KJV

Then said Samuel to the people, Come, and let us go to Gilgal, and renew the kingdom there.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then said {H559} Samuel {H8050} to the people {H5971}, Come {H3212}, and let us go {H3212} to Gilgal {H1537}, and renew {H2318} the kingdom {H4410} there.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then Sh'mu'el said to the people, "Come, let's go to Gilgal and inaugurate the kingship there.

Berean Standard Bible

Then Samuel said to the people, “Come, let us go to Gilgal and renew the kingship there.”

American Standard Version

Then said Samuel to the people, Come, and let us go to Gilgal, and renew the kingdom there.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 11:14 marks a pivotal moment in Israel's transition to monarchy, where the prophet Samuel, leveraging the national unity and enthusiasm following Saul's decisive victory over the Ammonites, formally consolidates Saul's kingship. This verse orchestrates a solemn assembly at Gilgal, a site steeped in Israelite history and covenant renewal, to publicly affirm Saul's divine appointment and establish the nascent kingdom on a firm, unified foundation, moving beyond initial skepticism to widespread acceptance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Saul's triumphant military campaign against Nahash the Ammonite, which culminated in the decisive rescue of Jabesh-Gilead (1 Samuel 11:1-13). Saul's swift and divinely empowered victory silenced the dissenters who had previously questioned his leadership (compare the skepticism towards Saul's kingship in [1 Samuel 10:27](/1-samuel/10-27 "1 Samuel 10:27 - Skepticism towards Saul's Kingship")). The people, now unified and enthusiastic, even sought to execute those who had opposed Saul (1 Samuel 11:12), but Saul, demonstrating a nascent kingly magnanimity, refused. Samuel, ever the wise spiritual leader, seizes this moment of national fervor and newfound unity to transition from a military triumph to a formal, covenantal establishment of the monarchy, ensuring that the people's enthusiasm is channeled into a divinely sanctioned act of commitment. The subsequent verse, [1 Samuel 11:15](/1-samuel/11-15 "1 Samuel 11:15 - Saul's Coronation at Gilgal"), details the actual coronation and sacrifices at Gilgal.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period described in 1 Samuel is one of significant transition for Israel, moving from a tribal confederacy led by charismatic judges to a centralized monarchy. The people's demand for a king, as recorded in [1 Samuel 8](/1-samuel/8 "1 Samuel 8 - Israel Demands a King"), was met with divine allowance but also prophetic warning. Gilgal itself holds immense historical and spiritual significance. It was the first encampment of Israel after crossing the Jordan into the Promised Land, as detailed in [Joshua 4:19](/joshua/4-19 "Joshua 4:19 - Israel's First Camp at Gilgal"), where the reproach of Egypt was "rolled away" through renewed circumcision and the first Passover in Canaan was observed, as recounted in [Joshua 5:9](/joshua/5-9 "Joshua 5:9 - Gilgal and the Renewal of Circumcision"). Gilgal served as a base for Joshua's campaigns, a place of covenant renewal, and a site for divine encounters. Its selection for the renewal of the kingdom was not arbitrary; it invoked deep historical memory and underscored the notion that the monarchy, though a new institution, was rooted in Israel's foundational covenant relationship with God.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within 1 Samuel and the broader Old Testament narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **Confirmation of Kingship**, demonstrating that Saul's military success served as a divine sign of his fitness to rule, transforming his theoretical appointment into a practically accepted reality for all Israel. Secondly, it underscores **National Unity and Commitment**, as the call to Gilgal was an invitation for the entire nation to participate in a solemn ceremony, symbolizing a collective agreement to move forward under God's chosen leader and fostering a crucial sense of national cohesion after a period of tribal disunity. Thirdly, it reinforces the **Divine Mandate** for the monarchy; despite the people's initial request for a king, Samuel consistently emphasized that Saul's appointment was ultimately from God, and the ceremony at Gilgal served as a public acknowledgment of this divine grounding. Finally, the event marks a crucial **Transition to Monarchy**, signaling a decisive shift from the ad-hoc leadership of judges to a more structured, albeit still developing, governmental system, with Samuel playing a vital role in guiding Israel through this momentous change.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **renew (Hebrew, _châdash'_):** The Hebrew verb חָדַשׁ (*châdash*) means "to be new" or "to rebuild." In this context, it does not imply creating a kingdom from scratch, as Saul had already been anointed and chosen by lot. Instead, it signifies a formal revitalization, confirmation, and proper inauguration of the existing concept of a kingdom under Saul's leadership. It suggests a fresh start, a public recommitment, and a firm rooting of the monarchy within Israel's covenant relationship with God after a period of uncertainty and initial opposition. This "renewal" implies a spiritual and national recommitment to the new governmental structure under divine approval.
* **kingdom (Hebrew, _mᵉlûwkâh'_):** The Hebrew noun מְלוּכָה (*mᵉlûwkâh*) refers to "something ruled," "a realm," or "kingship/royal power." Here, it denotes not merely the abstract concept of rule but the concrete establishment of a monarchical system in Israel, with Saul as its head. The call to "renew the kingdom" is a call to formally establish and publicly acknowledge this new form of governance, transitioning from the previous, less centralized tribal system to a unified national entity under a king. It emphasizes the institutionalization of royal authority, designed to bring order and stability to the nation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then said Samuel to the people":** This opening phrase highlights Samuel's continuing authority and indispensable role as God's prophet and the last of the judges. Even as the monarchy is established, Samuel remains the crucial intermediary between God and Israel, guiding the nation through this significant transition. His initiative underscores that the establishment of the kingdom, though desired by the people, is ultimately orchestrated under divine guidance.
* **"Come, and let us go to Gilgal":** Samuel's invitation is a command to collective action, emphasizing national unity. The choice of Gilgal is highly significant, as detailed in the context section. It was a place of foundational covenant experiences, symbolizing Israel's entry into the Promised Land, the rolling away of Egyptian reproach, and the renewal of circumcision. By choosing Gilgal, Samuel imbues the establishment of the monarchy with deep historical and spiritual meaning, connecting the new institution to Israel's sacred past and covenant identity.
* **"and renew the kingdom there":** This is the core purpose of the assembly. The "renewal" signifies a public, formal, and unified affirmation of Saul's kingship. It is a moment of national commitment, where the people, having witnessed Saul's divine favor in battle, collectively acknowledge and pledge allegiance to him as their God-appointed king. This act at Gilgal solidifies the monarchy, moving it from a prophetic anointing and selection by lot to a fully public and nationally accepted institution, grounded in worship and covenant.

#### Literary Devices
The passage makes effective use of **Symbolism**, particularly through the choice of Gilgal as the location for the kingdom's renewal. Gilgal is not merely a geographical point but a powerful symbol of new beginnings, covenant faithfulness, and national identity, connecting the nascent monarchy to Israel's foundational history and divine promises. This symbolic resonance elevates the event from a mere political gathering to a sacred act. There is also an element of **Dramatic Irony** present for the reader who knows the full narrative of Saul's reign. While this moment at Gilgal signifies unity and the renewal of the kingdom under Saul's leadership, it is tragically ironic that Gilgal will later become the site of Saul's rejection by God through Samuel, due to his disobedience (see [1 Samuel 15](/1-samuel/15 "1 Samuel 15 - Saul's Disobedience and Rejection")). This contrast between the joyous, unifying renewal and the later, sorrowful rejection underscores the conditional nature of the earthly kingship and the ultimate sovereignty of God. Furthermore, Samuel's authoritative declaration exemplifies **Prophetic Authority**, as he acts as God's spokesperson, guiding the people in this crucial national and spiritual transition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The formal establishment of the monarchy at Gilgal, initiated by Samuel, underscores the intricate relationship between divine sovereignty and human agency in God's plan for Israel. While the people had demanded a king, reflecting a desire to be "like all the nations" ([1 Samuel 8:5](/1-samuel/8-5 "1 Samuel 8:5 - Israel Demands a King")), God, through Samuel, ultimately guided the process, ensuring that the king was chosen by divine mandate and the kingdom established on a foundation of covenant. This event highlights that true leadership, even in a human institution like monarchy, must be rooted in God's will and dedicated to His purposes. The "renewal" at Gilgal emphasizes the importance of recommitment and fresh starts in the life of faith, both individually and corporately, reminding us that God is always able to restore and re-establish what is broken or uncertain.

* [Joshua 24:25](/joshua/24-25 "Joshua 24:25 - Joshua's Covenant Renewal at Shechem")
* [2 Chronicles 7:14](/2-chronicles/7-14 "2 Chronicles 7:14 - God's Promise of Healing and Restoration")
* [Lamentations 5:21](/lamentations/5-21 "Lamentations 5:21 - A Prayer for Renewal and Restoration")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The call to Gilgal to "renew the kingdom" serves as a powerful metaphor for the ongoing need for renewal and recommitment in our own lives, communities, and institutions. Just as Israel needed a formal, public act to solidify their new governmental structure and unify the nation under God's chosen leader, we too are often called to renew our commitments—whether to God, to our families, to our vocations, or to our communities. This renewal is not merely a superficial change but a deep, intentional re-establishment of purpose and allegiance, often following a period of trial or uncertainty, much like Saul's victory preceded this event. It reminds us that true progress and lasting unity are often forged in moments of collective dedication and public acknowledgment of divine guidance. The choice of Gilgal, a place of historical covenant, further impresses upon us the importance of grounding our new endeavors and renewed commitments in the foundational truths and principles of our faith, ensuring that our actions are not merely pragmatic but spiritually anchored.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "kingdom" or area of your life might God be calling you to "renew" or formally recommit to today?**
* **How does the idea of public declaration or communal gathering, as seen at Gilgal, strengthen personal or corporate commitments?**
* **In what ways can a past "victory" or moment of divine favor serve as a catalyst for a deeper commitment to God's purposes in your life?**
* **How can we ensure that our "new beginnings" are rooted in spiritual foundations, much like the kingdom was renewed at Gilgal?**

### FAQ

**Why was Gilgal chosen for the renewal of the kingdom?**

Answer: Gilgal was chosen for its profound historical and spiritual significance to Israel. It was the first encampment of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land, as recorded in [Joshua 4:19](/joshua/4-19 "Joshua 4:19 - Israel's First Camp at Gilgal"), where they renewed their covenant with God through circumcision and celebrated the first Passover in Canaan, as seen in [Joshua 5:9](/joshua/5-9 "Gilgal and the Renewal of Circumcision"). It symbolized new beginnings, the removal of past reproach, and a place where God's presence was powerfully manifested. By choosing Gilgal, Samuel connected the new institution of monarchy to Israel's foundational covenant history, imbuing the act of "renewing the kingdom" with deep spiritual resonance and legitimacy, grounding it in God's faithfulness to His people.

**What does "renew the kingdom" mean in this context, given that Saul was already chosen as king?**

Answer: The phrase "renew the kingdom" (Hebrew: *châdash*) does not imply creating a kingdom from scratch, as Saul had already been anointed by Samuel ([1 Samuel 10:1](/1-samuel/10-1 "1 Samuel 10:1 - Saul's Anointing")) and chosen by lot ([1 Samuel 10:20-24](/1-samuel/10-20 "1 Samuel 10:20-24 - Saul Chosen by Lot")). Instead, it signifies a formal, public, and national affirmation and consolidation of Saul's kingship. Prior to his victory over the Ammonites, some had questioned Saul's ability to rule, as noted in [1 Samuel 10:27](/1-samuel/10-27 "1 Samuel 10:27 - Skepticism towards Saul's Kingship"). His decisive military success united the nation and silenced dissent. Therefore, "renewing the kingdom" at Gilgal was an act of public commitment, solidifying the people's allegiance to Saul, formally establishing the monarchy as a national institution, and dedicating it before God. It was a moment of covenant renewal and a fresh start for the nation under its new form of governance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The establishment and renewal of Israel's earthly kingdom under Saul at Gilgal, while significant, ultimately foreshadows the perfect and eternal kingdom of God established through Jesus Christ. Saul's kingship, though divinely appointed, was flawed and temporary, eventually leading to his rejection and the need for a new king from a different lineage. This earthly monarchy, with its cycles of obedience and disobedience, points to the ultimate need for a King who would perfectly fulfill God's will and establish an everlasting reign. Jesus, the true [Son of David](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Jesus, Son of David"), is the King who does not merely "renew" a temporary kingdom but inaugurates a [new covenant](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Jesus, Mediator of a Better Covenant") and an eternal, spiritual kingdom that will never end, as prophesied in [Luke 1:33](/luke/1-33 "Luke 1:33 - His Kingdom Will Have No End"). Just as the people gathered at Gilgal to affirm Saul, believers are called to gather and affirm Christ as their Lord and King, submitting to His perfect rule. The "renewal" at Gilgal, rooted in Israel's past covenant, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who offers a true and lasting renewal of the human heart and a [new creation](/2-corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ") for all who believe, ushering in a kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, as described in [Romans 14:17](/romans/14-17 "Romans 14:17 - The Kingdom of God is Righteousness, Peace, and Joy").

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

1 Samuel 10:8

And thou shalt go down before me to Gilgal; and, behold, I will come down unto thee, to offer burnt offerings, [and] to sacrifice sacrifices of peace offerings: seven days shalt thou tarry, till I come to thee, and shew thee what thou shalt do.

1 Samuel 7:16

And he went from year to year in circuit to Bethel, and Gilgal, and Mizpeh, and judged Israel in all those places.

1 Samuel 10:24

And Samuel said to all the people, See ye him whom the LORD hath chosen, that [there is] none like him among all the people? And all the people shouted, and said, God save the king.

1 Samuel 10:25

Then Samuel told the people the manner of the kingdom, and wrote [it] in a book, and laid [it] up before the LORD. And Samuel sent all the people away, every man to his house.

1 Samuel 5:3

And when they of Ashdod arose early on the morrow, behold, Dagon [was] fallen upon his face to the earth before the ark of the LORD. And they took Dagon, and set him in his place again.

1 Chronicles 12:38

All these men of war, that could keep rank, came with a perfect heart to Hebron, to make David king over all Israel: and all the rest also of Israel [were] of one heart to make David king.

1 Chronicles 12:39

And there they were with David three days, eating and drinking: for their brethren had prepared for them.