This verse from 1 Samuel 14:11 is part of the story of Jonathan, son of King Saul, and his armor-bearer's daring raid on a Philistine garrison. Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
"Both of them revealed themselves to the garrison of the Philistines": Jonathan and his armor-bearer intentionally showed themselves to the Philistine soldiers. They came out into the open where they could be seen. The risk was very high.
"and the Philistines said, 'Behold, the Hebrews are coming out of the holes where they had hidden themselves!'": The Philistines, upon seeing Jonathan and his armor-bearer, made a scornful remark. They assumed that these two were just more of the cowardly Israelites who had been hiding in caves, pits, and other concealed places out of fear of the Philistine army. This reflects the Philistines' low opinion of the Israelites at the time and their belief in their own superiority. The Philistines mocked them, thinking that the Israelites were only coming out because they thought the coast was clear or because they were desperate.
The significance of the verse:
Underestimation: The Philistines' dismissive attitude sets the stage for their surprise when Jonathan and his armor-bearer actually attack. They underestimated the courage and faith (Jonathan believed God would give them victory) of these two Israelites.
Courage vs. Fear: The verse highlights the contrast between Jonathan's boldness and the general fear of the Israelites. While most Israelites were hiding, Jonathan was willing to take a risk based on his faith.
Divine Intervention (Implied): While not explicitly stated in this verse, the broader narrative implies that God's intervention is at play. Jonathan's audacious plan succeeds, and it leads to a wider Israelite victory. This hints that God will support those who trust in Him.
In short, the verse shows the Philistines mocking the Israelites, assuming that they are simply coming out of hiding due to fear. It underscores the Philistines' arrogance, which will soon be challenged by Jonathan's faith and bravery, and ultimately through God's plan.
This verse from 1 Samuel 14:11 is part of the story of Jonathan, son of King Saul, and his armor-bearer's daring raid on a Philistine garrison. Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
"Both of them revealed themselves to the garrison of the Philistines": Jonathan and his armor-bearer intentionally showed themselves to the Philistine soldiers. They came out into the open where they could be seen. The risk was very high.
"and the Philistines said, 'Behold, the Hebrews are coming out of the holes where they had hidden themselves!'": The Philistines, upon seeing Jonathan and his armor-bearer, made a scornful remark. They assumed that these two were just more of the cowardly Israelites who had been hiding in caves, pits, and other concealed places out of fear of the Philistine army. This reflects the Philistines' low opinion of the Israelites at the time and their belief in their own superiority. The Philistines mocked them, thinking that the Israelites were only coming out because they thought the coast was clear or because they were desperate.
The significance of the verse:
Underestimation: The Philistines' dismissive attitude sets the stage for their surprise when Jonathan and his armor-bearer actually attack. They underestimated the courage and faith (Jonathan believed God would give them victory) of these two Israelites.
Courage vs. Fear: The verse highlights the contrast between Jonathan's boldness and the general fear of the Israelites. While most Israelites were hiding, Jonathan was willing to take a risk based on his faith.
Divine Intervention (Implied): While not explicitly stated in this verse, the broader narrative implies that God's intervention is at play. Jonathan's audacious plan succeeds, and it leads to a wider Israelite victory. This hints that God will support those who trust in Him.
In short, the verse shows the Philistines mocking the Israelites, assuming that they are simply coming out of hiding due to fear. It underscores the Philistines' arrogance, which will soon be challenged by Jonathan's faith and bravery, and ultimately through God's plan.