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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 1 Samuel 14:16–23. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
We have here the prosecution and improvement of the wonderful advantages which Jonathan and his armour-bearer gained against the Philistines.
I.The Philistines were, by the power of God, set against one another.
They melted away like snow before the sun, and went on beating down one another (Sa1 14:16), for (Sa1 14:20) every man's sword was against his fellow. When they fled for fear, instead of turning back upon those that chased them, they reckoned those only their enemies that stood in their way, and treated them accordingly. The Philistines were very secure, because all the swords and spears were in their hands. Israel had none except what Saul and Jonathan had. But now God showed them the folly of that confidence, by making their own swords and spears the instruments of their own destruction, and more fatal in their own hands than if they had been in the hands of Israel. See the like done, Jdg 7:22; Ch2 20:23.
II.The Israelites were hereby animated against them.
1.Notice was soon taken of it by the watchmen of Saul, those that stood sentinel at Gibeah, Sa1 14:16. They were aware that the host of the enemy was in great confusion, and that a great slaughter was made among them, and yet, upon search, they found none of their own forces absent, but only Jonathan and his servant (Sa1 14:17), which no doubt greatly animated them, and assured them that it could be no other than the Lord's doing, when there was no more of man's doing than what those two could do against a great host.
2.Saul began to enquire of God, but soon desisted. His spirit had not come down so far as to allow him to consult Samuel, though, it is probable, he was near him; for we read (Sa1 13:15) that he had come to Gibeah of Benjamin; but he called for the ark (Sa1 14:18), desiring to know whether it would be safe for him to attack the Philistines, upon the disorder they perceived them to be in. Many will consult God about their safety that would never consult him about their duty. But, perceiving by his scouts that the noise in the enemy's camp increased, he commanded the priest that officiated to break off abruptly: "Withdraw thy hand (Sa1 14:19), consult no more, wait no longer for an answer." He was very unwise indeed if (as some think) he forbade him to lift up his hands in prayer; for when Joshua was actually engaged with Amalek Moses continued still to lift up his hands. It is rather a prohibition to his enquiring of the Lord, either,
(1.)Because now he thought he did not need an answer, the case was plain enough. And yet the more evident it was that God did all the more reason he had to enquire whether he would give him leave to do any thing. Or,
(2.)Because now he would not stay for it; he was in such haste to fight a falling enemy that he would not stay to make and end of his devotions, nor hear what answer God would give him. A little thing will divert a vain and carnal mind from religious exercises. He that believeth will not make haste, such haste as this, nor reckon any business so urgent as not to allow time to take God along with him.
3.He, and all the little force he had, made a vigorous attack upon the enemy; and all the people were cried together (so the word is, Sa1 14:20), for want of the silver trumpets wherewith God appointed them to sound an alarm in the day of battle, Num 10:9. They summoned them together by shouting, and their number was not so great but that they might soon be got together. And now they seem bold and brave when the work is done to their hands. Our Lord Jesus had conquered our spiritual enemies, routed and dispersed them, so that we are cowards indeed if we will not stand to our arms when it is only to pursue the victory and to divide the spoil.
4.Every Hebrew, even those from whom one would least have expected it, now turned his hand against the Philistines.
(1.)Those that had deserted and gone over to the enemy, and were among them, now fought against them, Sa1 14:21. Some think, they were such as had been taken prisoners by them, and now they were goads in their sides. It rather seems that they went in to them voluntarily, but, now that they saw them falling, recovered the hearts of Israelites, and did valiantly for their country.
(2.)Those that had fled their colours, and hid themselves in the mountains, returned to their posts, and joined in with the pursuers (Sa1 14:22), hoping by their great zeal and officiousness, now that the danger was over and the victory sure, to atone for their former cowardice. It was not much to their praise to appear now, but it would have been more their reproach if they had not appeared. Those that are remiss and faint-hearted indeed that will not act in the cause of God when they see it victorious, as well as righteous. Thus all hands were at work against the Philistines, and every Israelite slew as many as he could, without sword or spear; yet it is said (Sa1 14:23), it was the Lord that saved Israel that day. He did it by them, for without him they could do nothing. Salvation is of the Lord.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
The one perfectly divine thing, the one glimpse of God's paradise given on earth, is to fight a losing battle - and not lose it.
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Summary
1 Samuel 14:19 captures a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines, illustrating King Saul's characteristic impulsiveness and his struggle with genuine reliance on divine guidance. As the Philistine camp descends into escalating chaos, Saul, who had initiated the process of inquiring of the Lord through the priest, abruptly terminates the spiritual consultation, prioritizing immediate tactical advantage over patient discernment of God's sovereign will. This incident serves as a significant early indicator of a recurring pattern in Saul's reign: a tendency to act on visible circumstances and human expediency rather than on faith, obedience, and the unhurried leading of God.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is deeply embedded within a dramatic and fast-paced narrative detailing a critical phase of the Israelite-Philistine war. Immediately preceding this, Jonathan, Saul's son, demonstrates extraordinary faith by launching a daring, two-man assault on a Philistine garrison, declaring his conviction that "nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few" (1 Samuel 14:6). This audacious act, empowered by divine intervention, triggers a miraculous panic and an earthquake within the Philistine ranks, leading to widespread confusion and internal conflict (1 Samuel 14:15). Observing this escalating disarray from Gibeah, Saul recognizes a prime opportunity to engage. He calls for the priest Ahiah, who is carrying the ephod (often mistaken for the Ark in some translations, but the context of inquiry points to the ephod as the instrument for divine consultation), to be brought forward, intending to inquire of the Lord. However, as the "noise" of the Philistine camp intensifies, signaling a rapidly unfolding and decisive advantage, Saul's impatience and tactical opportunism override his initial intent, leading to his abrupt command to halt the divine inquiry.
Historical & Cultural Context
The period of Saul's kingship was characterized by relentless military pressure from the Philistines, who held a significant technological advantage, particularly in iron weaponry, effectively monopolizing its use and denying it to the Israelites (1 Samuel 13:19-22). In ancient Israel, kings were expected not only to lead their armies but, more importantly, to seek and obey divine guidance before engaging in major military campaigns or making crucial decisions. The established method for inquiring of the Lord for specific direction was through the high priest, who would consult God using the Urim and Thummim, sacred lots kept within the ephod (Exodus 28:30). Saul's initial call for the priest and the ephod was in line with this deeply ingrained cultural and religious practice. His subsequent interruption, however, starkly deviates from the expected posture of patient submission to divine revelation, exposing a deeper flaw in his understanding of his role as king under God's ultimate authority and sovereignty.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of 1 Samuel. Firstly, it highlights Saul's Impulsiveness and Lack of Trust, a recurring character flaw. His inability to wait for God's clear word, even when the divinely appointed mechanism for guidance is literally at hand, stands in stark contrast to Jonathan's earlier, radical trust in God's power to save, regardless of the odds. Secondly, the verse underscores the Nature of Divine Guidance and the indispensable importance of seeking it diligently and patiently. Saul's action suggests a preference for perceived tactical advantage over spiritual discernment, treating God's guidance as a potential supplement rather than an essential prerequisite for righteous leadership. Thirdly, it develops the crucial theme of Obedience vs. Opportunity. While the Philistine disarray presented a clear and enticing opportunity for Israel, Saul's decision to forgo divine counsel reveals a profound struggle with prioritizing immediate human advantage over faithful obedience to God's process and timing. This impatience foreshadows his later, more significant acts of disobedience that ultimately cost him his kingdom, such as his unauthorized sacrifice (1 Samuel 13:12) and his failure to utterly destroy the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15:22).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This primitive root signifies "to speak," but more broadly, "to arrange" or "to set in order" words. In this context, it describes Saul's engagement with the priest, likely in the process of formulating or presenting the inquiry to the Lord. It implies a formal, albeit interrupted, consultation, highlighting that Saul was actively involved in the preliminary stages of seeking divine counsel before his abrupt change of mind.
This term denotes a "tumult," "crowd," or "uproar." Here, it vividly describes the escalating commotion, panic, and disorganization within the Philistine camp. It signifies not merely an auditory phenomenon but a palpable sense of chaos and a battle turning decisively, creating a powerful external stimulus that profoundly influenced Saul's decision-making process.
This primitive root means "to gather," "to collect," or "to take away," often implying removal or cessation. In Saul's imperative "Withdraw thine hand," it signifies an abrupt and decisive halt to whatever ritual or action the priest Ahiah was performing to inquire of God via the ephod. It underscores an immediate cessation of the spiritual process, driven by Saul's sudden shift in focus from divine consultation to immediate military action based on the visible signs of the Philistine rout.
This primitive word refers to the "hand," often indicating power, means, or direction. In the command "Withdraw thine hand," it literally refers to the priest's hand, presumably engaged in the act of consulting the Urim and Thummim within the ephod. Figuratively, it represents the entire act of divine inquiry—the spiritual means by which God's will was sought. Saul's command to withdraw the hand is thus a command to cease the entire process of seeking God's counsel.
Verse Breakdown
"And it came to pass, while Saul talked unto the priest"
This opening clause establishes the setting, indicating that King Saul was actively engaged in a consultation with Ahiah, the priest, presumably about the proper procedure for inquiring of the Lord regarding the unfolding battle. This suggests an initial, if ultimately fleeting, intention on Saul's part to seek divine guidance.
"that the noise that [was] in the host of the Philistines went on and increased"
This describes the external catalyst that diverted Saul's attention. The internal chaos and disarray within the Philistine camp, initiated by Jonathan's attack and amplified by divine intervention, became increasingly evident and overwhelming. This escalating "noise" represented a clear and rapidly developing tactical advantage, drawing Saul's focus away from the spiritual inquiry and towards the immediate military opportunity.
"and Saul said unto the priest, Withdraw thine hand"
This is the pivotal and climactic moment of the verse. Saul's abrupt and decisive command reveals his impulsiveness and his prioritization of a perceived immediate opportunity over patient, spiritual discernment. He cuts short the divinely ordained inquiry, demonstrating a profound lack of full trust in God's timing and method, opting instead to capitalize on the visible disarray of the enemy forces.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning and underscore its theological implications. Foreshadowing is prominent, as Saul's impulsive interruption of divine counsel here anticipates his later, more severe acts of disobedience, such as his unauthorized sacrifice in 1 Samuel 13 and his failure to fully obey God's command regarding the Amalekites in 1 Samuel 15. This consistent pattern of prioritizing his own judgment or perceived expediency over God's explicit instruction ultimately leads to his rejection as king. There is also a subtle but powerful Irony in Saul's action: he initiates the process of seeking divine guidance, only to abandon it precisely when God is already actively working to bring about victory through Jonathan's faith and the Philistines' internal chaos. Saul's impatience prevents him from fully recognizing or waiting for God's complete revelation, even as God's sovereign plan is unfolding before his eyes. Finally, the verse presents a stark Contrast between the patient, faith-filled initiative of Jonathan, who trusted God for victory against overwhelming odds, and Saul's impatience and reliance on visible circumstances, even to the point of cutting short a divinely ordained means of communication.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This incident profoundly illustrates the tension between human expediency and divine timing, and the critical importance of patient, faithful reliance on God's guidance. Saul's actions reveal a common human failing: the temptation to seize a perceived opportunity based on immediate circumstances rather than waiting for clear, confirmed direction from the Lord. True faith often requires waiting on God, even when the path forward seems obvious, urgent, or seemingly advantageous from a human perspective. Saul's failure here is not merely a tactical misstep but a profound spiritual one, demonstrating a heart not fully submitted to God's sovereign leading. It underscores that God's methods and timing are often profoundly different from our own, and true wisdom lies in aligning with His will, not in rushing ahead based on human calculation or visible opportunity.
Reflection and Application
Saul's impulsive command to "Withdraw thine hand" serves as a timeless cautionary tale for believers today. In a world that often values speed, efficiency, and immediate results, we are constantly tempted to act on what appears to be a clear opportunity or to react quickly to a perceived crisis, without fully consulting God or patiently waiting for His timing. This verse challenges us to examine our own hearts: are we truly seeking God's will with a posture of humble submission, or are we merely looking for divine confirmation of our own pre-conceived plans and desires? Do we genuinely trust God's timing and methods, even when they seem slower, less efficient, or less glamorous than our own? Cultivating patience, spiritual discernment, and a deep reliance on God's Word and prayer are crucial for navigating life's complexities and avoiding the pitfalls of human impulsiveness. When the "noise" of life's circumstances intensifies, whether it be a tempting opportunity or a pressing challenge, our first impulse should be to lean into God's presence, to seek His face, and to wait for His clear direction, rather than to withdraw our hand from seeking Him and rush into action based on what we see or feel.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was the priest doing when Saul interrupted him, and why was it important?
The priest, Ahiah, was in the process of inquiring of the Lord, most likely using the Urim and Thummim, which were sacred lots kept within the ephod, a priestly garment (Exodus 28:30). This was the divinely ordained method for seeking specific guidance from God on critical matters, especially military strategy and national decisions. The process involved the priest presenting a question to God, and the Urim and Thummim would provide a "yes" or "no" answer, or reveal God's will. Saul's interruption was profoundly significant because it demonstrated his impatience and his willingness to bypass God's established means of communication. He prioritized the immediate, visible tactical advantage (the Philistine disarray) over waiting for God's explicit instruction, revealing a fundamental lack of faith and a tendency to rely on his own judgment and perceived expediency.
Why was Saul's action in this verse significant for his kingship?
Saul's action in 1 Samuel 14:19 is a crucial early indicator of a pattern of disobedience and self-reliance that would ultimately lead to his rejection as king. While he initially sought divine guidance, his abrupt cessation of the inquiry demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of his role as king under God's sovereignty. A true king in Israel was meant to be a faithful steward of God's people, utterly dependent on divine wisdom and direction. Saul's impulsiveness here, driven by fear, ambition, or a desire for immediate gratification, foreshadows later, more egregious acts of disobedience, such as his unauthorized sacrifice in 1 Samuel 13 and his failure to utterly destroy the Amalekites in 1 Samuel 15. These instances collectively reveal a king who consistently placed his own will and perceived expediency above God's clear commands, ultimately leading to God's decision to remove the kingdom from him and give it to a man after His own heart.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Saul's failure to patiently await divine counsel, driven by an impulse to seize a fleeting opportunity, stands in stark contrast to the perfect obedience and unwavering reliance on the Father demonstrated by Jesus Christ. While Saul impulsively "withdraws his hand" from seeking God's will, Jesus consistently declared, "I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me" (John 5:30). Unlike Saul, who was swayed by the "noise" of external circumstances and immediate tactical advantage, Christ's entire life was characterized by perfect submission, even to the point of sacrificial death on a cross. He did not seek His own glory or a perceived expedient path, but always the Father's will, as profoundly articulated in His prayer in Gethsemane, "Not my will, but yours be done" (Luke 22:42). Jesus, as our ultimate King and perfect High Priest, perfectly embodies the complete trust and obedience that Saul lacked. He is the one who perfectly inquired of the Father, always acted according to divine wisdom, and perfectly fulfilled God's will, becoming the true Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). In Him, we find the perfect example of how to live a life of complete dependence on God, and through His finished work on the cross, we are granted access to God's throne of grace to find help in our time of need (Hebrews 4:15-16).