This verse describes a pivotal moment in the battle between the Israelites and the Philistines in 1 Samuel 14. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Likewise all the men of Israel...": This indicates that the action described is happening in addition to, or in the same way as, something previously mentioned (likely Jonathan's brave attack on the Philistine outpost).
"...who had hidden themselves in the hill country of Ephraim...": The Israelite army was in a desperate situation. They were so afraid of the Philistines (who were stronger and better equipped) that many soldiers had gone into hiding in the hills of Ephraim (a region north of Benjamin, where Saul and his remaining troops were).
"...when they heard that the Philistines fled...": The turning point. Word had spread that the Philistines were running away. This was due to Jonathan's surprise attack and likely divine intervention (as described earlier in the chapter).
"...even they also followed hard after them in the battle.": Encouraged by the news, the hidden Israelites emerged from their hiding places and joined the fight, pursuing the fleeing Philistines.
In essence, this verse illustrates:
The fear and desperation of the Israelites before Jonathan's actions. They were so demoralized that they were hiding instead of fighting.
The impact of a single act of courage (Jonathan's attack). It shifted the momentum and gave the Israelites hope.
The importance of momentum in warfare. Once the Philistines were on the run, even those who were initially too afraid to fight joined the pursuit, turning the tide of the battle.
The opportunism of the Israelites. Once they saw the Philistines fleeing, they seized the opportunity to attack and reclaim their land and freedom.
This verse highlights how fear can paralyze people, but a small spark of hope and a change in circumstances can lead to unexpected bravery and a dramatic shift in fortunes.
This verse describes a pivotal moment in the battle between the Israelites and the Philistines in 1 Samuel 14. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Likewise all the men of Israel...": This indicates that the action described is happening in addition to, or in the same way as, something previously mentioned (likely Jonathan's brave attack on the Philistine outpost).
"...who had hidden themselves in the hill country of Ephraim...": The Israelite army was in a desperate situation. They were so afraid of the Philistines (who were stronger and better equipped) that many soldiers had gone into hiding in the hills of Ephraim (a region north of Benjamin, where Saul and his remaining troops were).
"...when they heard that the Philistines fled...": The turning point. Word had spread that the Philistines were running away. This was due to Jonathan's surprise attack and likely divine intervention (as described earlier in the chapter).
"...even they also followed hard after them in the battle.": Encouraged by the news, the hidden Israelites emerged from their hiding places and joined the fight, pursuing the fleeing Philistines.
In essence, this verse illustrates:
The fear and desperation of the Israelites before Jonathan's actions. They were so demoralized that they were hiding instead of fighting.
The impact of a single act of courage (Jonathan's attack). It shifted the momentum and gave the Israelites hope.
The importance of momentum in warfare. Once the Philistines were on the run, even those who were initially too afraid to fight joined the pursuit, turning the tide of the battle.
The opportunism of the Israelites. Once they saw the Philistines fleeing, they seized the opportunity to attack and reclaim their land and freedom.
This verse highlights how fear can paralyze people, but a small spark of hope and a change in circumstances can lead to unexpected bravery and a dramatic shift in fortunes.