1 Samuel 11:15

KJV

And all the people went to Gilgal; and there they made Saul king before the LORD in Gilgal; and there they sacrificed sacrifices of peace offerings before the LORD; and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly.

KJV (with Strong's)

And all the people {H5971} went {H3212} to Gilgal {H1537}; and there they made Saul {H7586} king {H4427} before {H6440} the LORD {H3068} in Gilgal {H1537}; and there they sacrificed {H2076} sacrifices {H2077} of peace offerings {H8002} before {H6440} the LORD {H3068}; and there Saul {H7586} and all the men {H582} of Israel {H3478} rejoiced {H8055} greatly {H3966}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So all the people went to Gilgal; and there in Gilgal, before ADONAI, they made Sha'ul king. They presented sacrifices as peace offerings before ADONAI there, and there Sha'ul and all the people of Isra'el celebrated with great joy.

Berean Standard Bible

So all the people went to Gilgal and confirmed Saul as king in the presence of the LORD. There they sacrificed peace offerings before the LORD, and Saul and all the Israelites rejoiced greatly.

American Standard Version

And all the people went to Gilgal; and there they made Saul king before Jehovah in Gilgal; and there they offered sacrifices of peace-offerings before Jehovah; and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse climactically describes the formal and public enthronement of Saul as Israel's first king at Gilgal, following his decisive military victory over the Ammonites. It portrays a moment of profound national unity and popular affirmation, marked by sacred worship through peace offerings and widespread rejoicing, signifying the establishment of the monarchy under divine sanction and the people's joyful acceptance of God's chosen leader.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Samuel 11:15 serves as the triumphant culmination of the narrative arc detailing Saul's ascension to kingship, which began with his private anointing by Samuel ([1 Samuel 10:1](/1_samuel/10-1 "Samuel Anoints Saul")) and subsequent public presentation at Mizpah, where he was chosen by lot ([1 Samuel 10:17-24](/1_samuel/10-17 "Saul Chosen at Mizpah")). Despite this, some "worthless fellows" initially scorned him, withholding tribute ([1 Samuel 10:27](/1_samuel/10-27 "Those Who Despised Saul")). The immediate catalyst for this verse is Saul's heroic response to Nahash the Ammonite's siege of Jabesh-gilead ([1 Samuel 11:1-11](/1_samuel/11-1 "Saul Rescues Jabesh-Gilead")), where, empowered by the Spirit of God, he rallied Israel to a resounding victory. This decisive triumph unequivocally demonstrated his leadership and silenced all dissent, prompting Samuel's call for the nation to gather at Gilgal "to renew the kingdom there" ([1 Samuel 11:14](/1_samuel/11-14 "Samuel Calls for Renewal at Gilgal")), culminating in this formal and joyous enthronement.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Gilgal held immense historical and religious significance for ancient Israel. It was the first encampment of the Israelites after their miraculous crossing of the Jordan River into the Promised Land ([Joshua 4:19-20](/joshua/4-19 "Israel Enters Canaan at Gilgal")), where the covenant was renewed and the "reproach of Egypt" was symbolically "rolled away" ([Joshua 5:9](/joshua/5-9 "The Reproach Rolled Away")). As such, it was a central religious and judicial hub during the period of the Judges and early monarchy. The act of "making king" involved a public ceremony, typically accompanied by popular acclamation, sacrificial offerings, and communal feasting, all designed to solidify the leader's authority in the eyes of both the people and God. The "peace offerings" (Hebrew: _shelamim_) were voluntary sacrifices of thanksgiving and fellowship, a portion of which was consumed in a communal meal, symbolizing reconciliation and harmonious relationship with God and within the community. This shared feast underscored the unity and shared joy of such a momentous occasion.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several pivotal themes within the book of 1 Samuel and the broader narrative of Israel's history. Firstly, it highlights the **confirmation of divine appointment through popular affirmation**. While God had chosen Saul and Samuel had anointed him, his kingship is now publicly affirmed and solidified through his demonstrated leadership and military success, illustrating God's use of human agency and the importance of communal consent. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **national unity and collective identity** as "all the people" gather to celebrate and establish their new political structure, a stark contrast to the fragmented tribalism and internal strife characteristic of the preceding Judges period. Thirdly, the emphasis on sacrifices "before the LORD" reinforces the central theme of **divine sovereignty and the sacred nature of Israel's kingship**. Even as Israel desired a king "like all the nations" ([1 Samuel 8:5](/1_samuel/8-5 "Israel Demands a King")), this act reminds them that their monarchy remains under God's ultimate authority and is consecrated through worship. Finally, the "great rejoicing" reflects the **joy and hope** associated with the establishment of a stable, divinely sanctioned leadership, marking a significant and hopeful transition in Israel's history.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Gilgal (Hebrew, _Gilgâl'_):** This place name, H1537, meaning "circle of stones" or "rolling," carries profound historical and theological weight. It was the site where Israel first encamped after crossing the Jordan, where the covenant was renewed, and where the reproach of Egypt was "rolled away" ([Joshua 5:9](/joshua/5-9 "The Reproach Rolled Away")). By choosing Gilgal for Saul's formal enthronement, Samuel intentionally linked the new monarchy to Israel's foundational acts of covenant and national identity, grounding the political transition in sacred history and divine promise. It symbolized a fresh start and a renewed commitment to God.
* **Made Saul king (Hebrew, _mâlak'_):** This verb, H4427, from the primitive root meaning "to reign" or "to be king," is used here in its causative sense ("to induct into royalty"). While God had chosen and Samuel had anointed him, this public act at Gilgal was the formal, national acclamation and investiture. It signifies the active role of the people in installing Saul as king, demonstrating that his authority was now fully recognized and accepted by the entire nation, not just a select few. This public ceremony cemented his political legitimacy.
* **Peace offerings (Hebrew, _shelem'_):** Derived from the root _shalom_ (H8002), meaning "peace, wholeness, completeness," these sacrifices were voluntary offerings of thanksgiving, fellowship, and communion with God. Unlike sin or burnt offerings, a portion of the _shelem_ was returned to the worshiper for a communal meal, symbolizing a shared meal with God and the community. Their offering at Gilgal underscored the nation's gratitude for the victory, their desire for harmonious fellowship with God and each other, and the sacred nature of the new political order. It was an act of worship that consecrated the kingship and invoked divine blessing.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And all the people went to Gilgal;":** This opening clause emphasizes the widespread participation and national consensus surrounding Saul's enthronement. The phrase "all the people" signifies a unified Israel, transcending tribal divisions, gathering at a historically significant location. This collective movement highlights the popular support and anticipation for the establishment of the monarchy, demonstrating a rare moment of national cohesion.
* **"and there they made Saul king before the LORD in Gilgal;":** This is the central action of the verse, detailing the formal enthronement. The repetition of "Gilgal" reinforces the significance of the location, while "before the LORD" underscores the sacred nature of the event. It was not merely a political ceremony but an act performed under divine witness and sanction, acknowledging God's ultimate authority over the newly established kingship. The people's act of "making" Saul king was a ratification of God's prior choice, solidifying his position.
* **"and there they sacrificed sacrifices of peace offerings before the LORD;":** This clause describes the religious component of the enthronement. The offering of "peace offerings" indicates a communal act of thanksgiving, reconciliation, and fellowship. It signifies the nation's gratitude for the recent victory, their desire for a right relationship with God as they entered this new era, and a commitment to live in harmony under the new king. The repetition of "before the LORD" again highlights the divine focus and consecration of the entire event, emphasizing that the monarchy was established under God's watchful eye.
* **"and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly.":** The concluding clause captures the overwhelming emotion of the occasion. The "great rejoicing" signifies a moment of profound national unity, relief, and hope. It reflects the people's satisfaction with Saul's leadership, their acceptance of the monarchy, and their shared joy in this significant transition from a fragmented tribal system to a unified kingdom. This collective celebration cemented the bond between the new king and his people, all under the blessing of God.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices to convey its profound significance. **Repetition** is prominent, with "Gilgal" appearing three times and "before the LORD" twice, underscoring both the sacred location and the divine oversight of the proceedings. The repeated phrase "and there" creates a sense of purposeful sequence, emphasizing the deliberate and ceremonial nature of each action: gathering, enthroning, sacrificing, and rejoicing. **Symbolism** is rich, with the "peace offerings" representing not just thanksgiving but also the hope for internal unity and a harmonious relationship with God under the new monarchy. The very act of "making Saul king" symbolizes the pivotal transition from a tribal confederacy to a centralized monarchy, a foundational moment in Israel's national identity. The collective "rejoicing greatly" serves as a powerful **hyperbole**, emphasizing the overwhelming and unanimous joy of the people, a rare moment of complete national unity that contrasts sharply with the internal strife often seen in the book of Judges and the future divisions of Israel. This moment, though joyous, also carries a subtle **irony** when viewed retrospectively, given Saul's tragic reign and the eventual division of the kingdom, highlighting the fleeting nature of human triumph compared to God's enduring plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 11:15 stands as a pivotal moment in Israel's history, demonstrating the complex interplay between divine sovereignty and human agency in the establishment of leadership. While God had already chosen Saul and Samuel had anointed him, this public enthronement at Gilgal signifies the crucial element of popular affirmation and the people's active participation in accepting God's chosen leader. It highlights that even divinely appointed authority gains strength and legitimacy through the willing embrace of the community. The act of sacrificing peace offerings underscores that all national endeavors, especially the establishment of a new political order, must be consecrated through worship and conducted "before the LORD," acknowledging His ultimate dominion and seeking His blessing. This moment of unity and rejoicing, centered on shared worship, serves as an ideal, albeit temporary, picture of how Israel was meant to function under God's covenant.

* [Deuteronomy 17:14-20](/deuteronomy/17-14 "Deuteronomy 17:14-20 - Laws Concerning a King")
* [Psalm 2:6-7](/psalm/2-6 "Psalm 2:6-7 - God's Anointed King")
* [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Submission to Governing Authorities")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene at Gilgal, where Saul is formally made king amidst national unity and worship, offers profound lessons for believers today concerning leadership, community, and the place of God in our collective endeavors. It reminds us that true authority, whether in the church, family, or society, is ultimately derived from God, and its exercise should always be "before the LORD," seeking His guidance and blessing. Just as Israel celebrated their new king with peace offerings, so too should our moments of success, transition, or new beginnings be marked by intentional thanksgiving and fellowship with God. This verse challenges us to consider how we affirm and support godly leadership, recognizing that unity and shared joy in common purpose are powerful testimonies to God's work among us. It also calls us to reflect on the importance of consecrating our collective aspirations and achievements to God, ensuring that our triumphs lead to deeper worship and humility rather than self-congratulation or human pride.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of "making king before the LORD" inform our understanding of leadership and authority in contemporary contexts, both secular and sacred?**
* **In what ways can we, as individuals and communities, intentionally mark significant transitions or victories with acts of worship and thanksgiving to God, similar to the peace offerings at Gilgal?**
* **What does the "great rejoicing" of the people at Gilgal teach us about the power of unity and collective celebration in the life of faith and community?**
* **Considering Saul's later failures, what warning does this initial moment of triumph and divine blessing offer about the ongoing need for humility and faithfulness in leadership?**

### FAQ
**Why was Gilgal chosen as the location for Saul's formal enthronement?**

Answer: Gilgal was chosen for its profound historical and religious significance to Israel. It was the first encampment of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan into the Promised Land ([Joshua 4:19](/joshua/4-19 "Israel Enters Canaan at Gilgal")), where the covenant was renewed, and the reproach of Egypt was "rolled away" ([Joshua 5:9](/joshua/5-9 "The Reproach Rolled Away")). By holding the enthronement ceremony at Gilgal, Samuel and the people connected the new monarchy to Israel's foundational acts of covenant, national identity, and divine blessing. It symbolized a renewed commitment to God and a fresh start for the nation under its first king, grounding the political transition in sacred history and invoking divine favor.

**What was the significance of offering "sacrifices of peace offerings" at this event?**

Answer: The "peace offerings" (Hebrew: _shelamim_) were voluntary sacrifices of thanksgiving, fellowship, and communion with God. Their offering at Saul's enthronement signified several things:
1. **Thanksgiving:** It was an expression of profound gratitude to God for the decisive victory over the Ammonites ([1 Samuel 11:11](/1_samuel/11-11 "Saul's Victory")).
2. **Fellowship & Reconciliation:** These offerings often involved a communal meal, symbolizing harmonious relationship with God and among the people. It underscored the unity and reconciliation achieved after initial divisions regarding Saul's kingship ([1 Samuel 10:27](/1_samuel/10-27 "Those Who Despised Saul")).
3. **Consecration:** By offering these sacrifices "before the LORD," the nation consecrated the new monarchy to God, acknowledging His ultimate authority and seeking His blessing on Saul's reign. It was an act of worship that invoked divine favor upon the new political order and the new king.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The enthronement of Saul at Gilgal, a moment of national unity and great rejoicing, serves as a significant Old Testament foreshadowing of the ultimate, eternal kingship of Jesus Christ. While Saul was an earthly king, chosen by God yet flawed by human weakness, his initial acceptance and the people's joy point to a deeper longing for perfect divine rule. The "peace offerings" sacrificed at Gilgal, meant to bring reconciliation and fellowship between God and His people, find their ultimate fulfillment in the single, perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. He is the true [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), whose atoning work establishes a new covenant and brings genuine, everlasting peace between God and humanity ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14 "Christ Our Peace")). Unlike Saul, whose reign was marked by eventual failure and division, Jesus is the King whose kingdom "will have no end" ([Luke 1:33](/luke/1-33 "The Eternal Kingdom of Christ")). The "great rejoicing" of Israel at Gilgal anticipates the far greater, eternal joy of those who, by faith, acknowledge Jesus as their Lord and King. His enthronement is not merely a historical event but a spiritual reality, as He reigns from heaven, having been given "all authority in heaven and on earth" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "All Authority Given to Christ")). Believers are called to live under His perfect, righteous reign, experiencing the true peace, unity, and everlasting joy that only His perfect kingship can provide ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13 "Delivered from Darkness into His Kingdom")).

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 10:17

¶ And Samuel called the people together unto the LORD to Mizpeh;

Hosea 13:10

I will be thy king: where [is any other] that may save thee in all thy cities? and thy judges of whom thou saidst, Give me a king and princes?

Hosea 13:11

I gave thee a king in mine anger, and took [him] away in my wrath.

1 Chronicles 29:21

And they sacrificed sacrifices unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings unto the LORD, on the morrow after that day, [even] a thousand bullocks, a thousand rams, [and] a thousand lambs, with their drink offerings, and sacrifices in abundance for all Israel:

1 Chronicles 29:24

And all the princes, and the mighty men, and all the sons likewise of king David, submitted themselves unto Solomon the king.

James 4:16

But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.