1 Samuel 14:35

Context

1 Samuel 14:35 concludes a dramatic day of battle between the Israelites and the Philistines. King Saul, in his zeal, had made a rash oath forbidding his soldiers from eating until evening (1 Samuel 14:24). Exhausted and famished after their victory, the people violated Mosaic Law by eating meat with the blood still in it, a sin against God's covenant (Leviticus 17:10). When Saul learned of this transgression, he commanded them to bring the animals to him to be slaughtered properly, ensuring the blood was drained. It is immediately after this incident, and his attempt to inquire of God regarding pursuing the Philistines further, that Saul builds this altar. This act is presented as a response to the sin of the people and a means to properly seek divine guidance.

Key Themes and Messages

• Reactive Worship vs. Proactive Devotion: The verse highlights that this was "the first altar that he built unto the LORD." This suggests that Saul's act of worship was often reactive, prompted by crisis or sin, rather than being a consistent, proactive expression of devotion. Unlike patriarchs such as Noah or Abraham, who built altars as expressions of gratitude or covenant, Saul's first recorded altar building appears to be an attempt to rectify a spiritual error.
• Leadership and Righteousness: Saul's leadership is often characterized by impulsiveness and a struggle with consistent obedience. His rash oath led to his people's sin, and the building of the altar was a necessary step to restore proper worship and seek God's favor after the transgression. It underscores the responsibility of leaders to guide their people in righteousness.
• The Importance of Proper Approach to God: The immediate context emphasizes the gravity of sin (eating blood) and the need for proper atonement and worship. The altar served as the designated place for sacrifices, ensuring that the people approached God according to His prescribed ways.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "altar" is mizbeach (מִזְבֵּחַ), which derives from a root meaning "to slaughter" or "to sacrifice." This etymology directly links the structure to its primary purpose: a place for offering sacrifices to God. The phrase "the first altar" is significant, drawing attention to this specific event as a unique or initial formal act of worship in Saul's reign, at least in terms of building a dedicated structure.

Practical Application

This verse offers several important lessons for believers today:

• Examine Our Worship: Do we only turn to God and engage in fervent worship when we are in crisis, or is our devotion a consistent, proactive part of our lives? True faith seeks God continually, not just in moments of need.
• Leadership and Influence: Leaders, whether in the church, family, or workplace, bear significant responsibility for the spiritual well-being of those under their care. Our decisions and actions can have far-reaching spiritual consequences for others.
• Obedience over Ritual: While Saul built an altar, symbolizing a religious act, his broader narrative often shows a struggle with genuine obedience (1 Samuel 15:22). This reminds us that God desires a heart of obedience more than mere outward religious rituals.