1 Samuel 31 KJV Commentary
Introduction
The thirty-first chapter of 1 Samuel concludes the book with the tragic account of King Saul's death. This chapter serves as a dramatic conclusion to the story of Saul, who had been rejected by God as king over Israel. In this commentary, we will delve into the events surrounding Saul's demise and the significance of his death.
The Defeat of Israel (1 Samuel 31:1-3)
1 And the Philistines fought against Israel; and the men of Israel fled from before the Philistines, and fell slain in mount Gilboa. 2 And the Philistines followed hard upon Saul and upon his sons; and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchishua, the sons of Saul. 3 And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers hit him; and he was sore wounded of the archers.
The chapter begins with the Philistines fighting against Israel, and the Israelites fleeing in defeat. Saul's sons, Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua, are killed in the battle, leaving Saul alone and severely wounded.
The Death of Saul (1 Samuel 31:4-7)
4 Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it. 5 And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he fell likewise upon his sword, and died with him. 6 So Saul died, and his three sons, and his armourbearer, and all his men, that same day together. 7 And when all the men of Israel that were in the valley saw that they fled, and that Saul and his sons were dead, then they forsook their cities, and fled; and the Philistines came and dwelt in them.
Saul, realizing his impending defeat, requests his armorbearer to kill him to avoid being captured and mistreated by the Philistines. When the armorbearer refuses, Saul takes his own life by falling on his sword. The armorbearer, witnessing Saul's death, also takes his own life. This marks the end of Saul's reign and the lives of his sons, as well as the lives of their armorbearer and men.
Significance of Saul's Death
Saul's death serves as a conclusion to his story, marked by rebellion against God and disobedience. His demise serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobeying God's commands. The tragic fall of Saul highlights the importance of humility, obedience, and trust in God.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 1 Samuel 31 presents a somber conclusion to the story of King Saul. His tragic death serves as a lesson in the importance of humility, obedience, and trust in God. May Saul's story serve as a reminder to us all to submit to God's will and follow His commands.
