1 Samuel 31:11

And when the inhabitants of Jabeshgilead heard of that which the Philistines had done to Saul;

And when the inhabitants {H3427} of Jabeshgilead {H3003}{H1568} heard {H8085} of that which the Philistines {H6430} had done {H6213} to Saul {H7586};

When the people living in Yavesh-Gil'ad heard what the P'lishtim had done to Sha'ul,

When the people of Jabesh-gilead heard what the Philistines had done to Saul,

And when the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead heard concerning him that which the Philistines had done to Saul,

Commentary

Context

This verse, 1 Samuel 31:11, marks a pivotal moment following the tragic death of King Saul and his sons during the battle against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa. The preceding verses describe how the Philistines, after their victory, found Saul's body and those of his sons, stripped them, cut off Saul's head, and hung their bodies on the wall of Beth-shan as a public display of triumph and humiliation. It is this grim news that reaches the inhabitants of Jabesh-Gilead, setting the stage for their remarkable act of loyalty.

The relationship between Jabesh-Gilead and King Saul was deeply rooted in history. Early in his reign, Saul had famously rescued Jabesh-Gilead from the Ammonites, who had threatened to put out their right eyes. This act of deliverance forged an enduring bond of gratitude and allegiance between the people of Jabesh-Gilead and their king.

Key Themes

  • Loyalty and Gratitude: The primary theme is the profound loyalty and gratitude shown by the people of Jabesh-Gilead towards Saul. Their actions in the subsequent verses are a direct result of remembering Saul's past deliverance. This highlights the importance of faithfulness, even in the face of adversity and death.
  • Courage and Devotion: The inhabitants of Jabesh-Gilead demonstrated immense courage by venturing into Philistine-held territory to retrieve the bodies of Saul and his sons. This act underscores their devotion to their fallen king and their commitment to giving him a proper burial.
  • Respect for the Dead: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, proper burial was of paramount importance, signifying dignity and respect for the deceased. The Philistines' desecration was a deep insult, and Jabesh-Gilead's response was an attempt to restore honor to Saul's memory.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "heard of that which the Philistines had done to Saul" is straightforward in the KJV, conveying the simple, yet impactful, reception of devastating news. The Hebrew word for "heard" (ืฉึธืืžึทืข - shama') implies not just casual hearing, but often an attentive listening that leads to action, which is precisely what occurs next. The news was not merely information; it was a call to remembrance and a catalyst for their courageous response.

Significance and Application

The response of Jabesh-Gilead to the news of Saul's fate serves as a powerful testament to the enduring impact of kindness and the strength of loyalty. Their actions, detailed in the verses that follow, provide a poignant conclusion to Saul's tumultuous reign, offering a glimmer of dignity in his final narrative. This account reminds us:

  • The Power of Remembering: Just as Jabesh-Gilead remembered Saul's past help, we are called to remember the kindnesses shown to us and to act with gratitude.
  • Honoring the Fallen: Even when leaders are flawed, their service and sacrifices deserve respect. The people of Jabesh-Gilead honored Saul not for his perfect reign, but for his foundational act of saving them.
  • Courage in Adversity: Their willingness to risk their lives for a noble cause exemplifies courageous devotion. This story encourages us to act with integrity and bravery, even when faced with danger or social pressure.

This act of loyalty was so significant that David later commended the men of Jabesh-Gilead for their faithfulness to Saul, highlighting the lasting impression their courageous deed made.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 2:4 (2 votes)

    And the men of Judah came, and there they anointed David king over the house of Judah. And they told David, saying, [That] the men of Jabeshgilead [were they] that buried Saul.

  • 1 Samuel 11:1 (2 votes)

    ยถ Then Nahash the Ammonite came up, and encamped against Jabeshgilead: and all the men of Jabesh said unto Nahash, Make a covenant with us, and we will serve thee.

  • 1 Samuel 11:11 (2 votes)

    And it was [so] on the morrow, that Saul put the people in three companies; and they came into the midst of the host in the morning watch, and slew the Ammonites until the heat of the day: and it came to pass, that they which remained were scattered, so that two of them were not left together.