1 samuel 13:7 - Now some of the Hebrews had gone over the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead; but as for Saul, he was yet in Gilgal, and all the people followed him trembling.
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What does "1 samuel 13:7" mean?
This verse, 1 Samuel 13:7, paints a picture of a nation on the verge of collapse and provides context for Saul's subsequent, ill-advised actions. Let's break it down:
"Now some of the Hebrews had gone over the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead...": This signifies that fear and panic are spreading among the Israelites. People are fleeing east across the Jordan River to seek safety in the territories of Gad and Gilead, traditionally areas of refuge and perhaps perceived as being less immediately threatened by the Philistines. This is a clear indication of low morale and lack of confidence in Saul's leadership.
"...but as for Saul, he was yet in Gilgal...": Saul remains in Gilgal, a strategically important location, but also a place associated with the initial establishment of his kingship (1 Samuel 11). This hints at a potential clinging to power and a defensive posture. However, his staying at Gilgal alone isn't inherently bad; it could be seen as holding the ground. The problem lies in how he is staying there and why.
"...and all the people followed him trembling.": This is the critical piece that reveals the true state of affairs. The people are not following Saul with faith and courage. They are following him trembling. This suggests a lack of trust in his leadership and a belief that he is not capable of protecting them. Their obedience is driven by fear, not loyalty or hope. They are essentially trapped, with nowhere else to go and no better option than to stay with their king, however fearful he might be.
In essence, the verse highlights:
Disintegration of National Unity: The Hebrews are scattering, driven by fear.
Saul's Weakening Authority: The people follow him out of fear, not confidence. His leadership is not inspiring trust.
Impending Crisis: The situation is desperate, setting the stage for Saul's impetuous actions that follow.
The verse is not just a description of a geographical location; it is a commentary on the fragile state of Israel and the failings of its first king. It explains why Saul might feel pressured to act, even if his actions are unwise, in order to try and hold the kingdom together. This sets the stage for the infamous incident where Saul offers a burnt offering before Samuel's arrival, an act of disobedience that ultimately leads to his downfall.
1 samuel 13:7 - Now some of the Hebrews had gone over the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead; but as for Saul, he was yet in Gilgal, and all the people followed him trembling.
What does "1 samuel 13:7" mean?
This verse, 1 Samuel 13:7, paints a picture of a nation on the verge of collapse and provides context for Saul's subsequent, ill-advised actions. Let's break it down:
"Now some of the Hebrews had gone over the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead...": This signifies that fear and panic are spreading among the Israelites. People are fleeing east across the Jordan River to seek safety in the territories of Gad and Gilead, traditionally areas of refuge and perhaps perceived as being less immediately threatened by the Philistines. This is a clear indication of low morale and lack of confidence in Saul's leadership.
"...but as for Saul, he was yet in Gilgal...": Saul remains in Gilgal, a strategically important location, but also a place associated with the initial establishment of his kingship (1 Samuel 11). This hints at a potential clinging to power and a defensive posture. However, his staying at Gilgal alone isn't inherently bad; it could be seen as holding the ground. The problem lies in how he is staying there and why.
"...and all the people followed him trembling.": This is the critical piece that reveals the true state of affairs. The people are not following Saul with faith and courage. They are following him trembling. This suggests a lack of trust in his leadership and a belief that he is not capable of protecting them. Their obedience is driven by fear, not loyalty or hope. They are essentially trapped, with nowhere else to go and no better option than to stay with their king, however fearful he might be.
In essence, the verse highlights:
Disintegration of National Unity: The Hebrews are scattering, driven by fear.
Saul's Weakening Authority: The people follow him out of fear, not confidence. His leadership is not inspiring trust.
Impending Crisis: The situation is desperate, setting the stage for Saul's impetuous actions that follow.
The verse is not just a description of a geographical location; it is a commentary on the fragile state of Israel and the failings of its first king. It explains why Saul might feel pressured to act, even if his actions are unwise, in order to try and hold the kingdom together. This sets the stage for the infamous incident where Saul offers a burnt offering before Samuel's arrival, an act of disobedience that ultimately leads to his downfall.