1 Samuel 13:2
1 Samuel 13:2 in Multiple Translations
He chose for himself three thousand men of Israel: Two thousand were with Saul at Michmash and in the hill country of Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin. And the rest of the troops he sent away, each to his own home.
Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel; whereof two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Beth-el, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.
Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel, whereof two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in the mount of Beth-el, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.
And Saul took for himself three thousand men of Israel, of whom he kept two thousand with him in Michmash and in the mountain of Beth-el, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah in the land of Benjamin: the rest of the people he sent back to their tents.
Saul had chosen three thousand men of Israel. Two thousand of them were with Saul in Michmash and the hill country of Bethel, and another thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin. He sent the rest of the army home.
Then Saul chose him three thousand of Israel: and two thousande were with Saul in Michmash, and in mount Beth-el, and a thousande were with Ionathan in Gibeah of Beniamin: and the rest of the people he sent euery one to his tent.
and Saul chooseth for himself three thousand [men] out of Israel; and two thousand are with Saul in Michmash, and in the hill-country of Beth-El; and a thousand have been with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin; and the remnant of the people he hath sent each to his tents.
Saul chose for himself three thousand men of Israel, of which two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in the Mount of Bethel, and one thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin. He sent the rest of the people to their own tents.
Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel; of which two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Beth-el, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.
And Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel: and two thousand were with Saul in Machmas, and in mount Bethel: and a thousand with Jonathan in Gabaa of Benjamin, and the rest of the people he sent back every man to their dwellings.
Several years after he became king, he chose three thousand men from the Israeli army to go with him to fight the Philistines. Then he sent the other soldiers back home. Of the men he chose, 2,000 stayed with Saul at Micmash and in the hilly area near Bethel, and 1,000 stayed with Saul’s son Jonathan at Gibeah, in the area where the descendants of Benjamin lived.
Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 13:2
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
1 Samuel 13:2 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יִּבְחַר
ל֨/וֹ
שָׁא֜וּל
שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת
אֲלָפִים֮
מִ/יִּשְׂרָאֵל֒
וַ/יִּהְי֨וּ
עִם
שָׁא֜וּל
אַלְפַּ֗יִם
בְּ/מִכְמָשׂ֙
וּ/בְ/הַ֣ר
בֵּֽית
אֵ֔ל
וְ/אֶ֗לֶף
הָיוּ֙
עִם
י֣וֹנָתָ֔ן
בְּ/גִבְעַ֖ת
בִּנְיָמִ֑ין
וְ/יֶ֣תֶר
הָ/עָ֔ם
שִׁלַּ֖ח
אִ֥ישׁ
לְ/אֹהָלָֽי/ו
וַ/יִּבְחַר
bâchar
H977
to choose
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
ל֨/וֹ
Prep | Suff
שָׁא֜וּל
Shâʼûwl
H7586
Shaul
N-proper
שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת
shâlôwsh
H7969
three
Adj
אֲלָפִים֮
ʼeleph
H505
thousand
Adj
מִ/יִּשְׂרָאֵל֒
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
Israel
Prep | N-proper
וַ/יִּהְי֨וּ
hâyâh
H1961
to be
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
עִם
ʻim
H5973
with
Prep
שָׁא֜וּל
Shâʼûwl
H7586
Shaul
N-proper
אַלְפַּ֗יִם
ʼeleph
H505
thousand
Adj
בְּ/מִכְמָשׂ֙
Mikmâç
H4363
Michmash
Prep | N-proper
וּ/בְ/הַ֣ר
har
H2022
mountain
Conj | Prep | N-ms
בֵּֽית
Bêyth-ʼÊl
H1008
Bethel
N-proper
אֵ֔ל
Bêyth-ʼÊl
H1008
Bethel
N-proper
וְ/אֶ֗לֶף
ʼeleph
H505
thousand
Conj | Adj
הָיוּ֙
hâyâh
H1961
to be
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
עִם
ʻim
H5973
with
Prep
י֣וֹנָתָ֔ן
Yôwnâthân
H3129
Jonathan
N-proper
בְּ/גִבְעַ֖ת
Gibʻâh
H1390
Gibeah
Prep | N-proper
בִּנְיָמִ֑ין
Binyâmîyn
H1144
Benjamin
N-proper
וְ/יֶ֣תֶר
yether
H3499
remainder
Conj | N-ms
הָ/עָ֔ם
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Art | N-ms
שִׁלַּ֖ח
shâlach
H7971
to send
V-Piel-Perf-3ms
אִ֥ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
N-ms
לְ/אֹהָלָֽי/ו
ʼôhel
H168
tent
Prep | N-mp | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 13:2
וַ/יִּבְחַר
bâchar
H977
"to choose"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To choose or select is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which appears in Deuteronomy. It can also mean to be chosen or elected. The KJV translates it as 'choose' or 'acceptable'.
Definition: 1) to choose, elect, decide for 1a) (Qal) to choose 1b) (Niphal) to be chosen 1c) (Pual) to be chosen, selected
Usage: Occurs in 162 OT verses. KJV: acceptable, appoint, choose (choice), excellent, join, be rather, require. See also: Genesis 6:2; 2 Kings 23:27; Psalms 25:12.
ל֨/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
שָׁא֜וּל
Shâʼûwl
H7586
"Shaul"
N-proper
Shaul is a personal name meaning desired, given to several individuals in the Bible, including a Benjamite who became the first king of Israel and a Levite living during the time of the Divided Monarchy. He is mentioned in 1 Chronicles and 1 Samuel.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ch.6.24; son of: Uzziah (H5818H); father of: Elkanah (H0511I); also called Joel at 1Ch.6.36; Also named: yo.el (יוֹאֵל "Joel" H3100U) § Saul or Shaul = "desired" 1) a Benjamite, son of Kish, and the 1st king of Israel 2) an early king of Edom and a successor of Samlah 3) a son of Simeon 4) a Levite, son of Uzziah
Usage: Occurs in 335 OT verses. KJV: Saul, Shaul. See also: Genesis 36:37; 1 Samuel 16:22; 1 Samuel 24:5.
שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת
shâlôwsh
H7969
"three"
Adj
This Hebrew word means three or thrice, and is used to describe quantities or repetitions in the Bible. It appears in various forms, including three, third, and thirteen.
Definition: 1) three, triad 1a) 3, 300, third Aramaic equivalent: te.lat (תְּלָת "three" H8532)
Usage: Occurs in 381 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] fork, [phrase] often(-times), third, thir(-teen, -teenth), three, [phrase] thrice. Compare H7991 (שָׁלִישׁ). See also: Genesis 5:22; Joshua 1:11; 2 Kings 9:32.
אֲלָפִים֮
ʼeleph
H505
"thousand"
Adj
A thousand, as in Exodus 20:6 where God shows love to thousands of people. It represents a large number or a company of people under one leader, like an army or a group of soldiers.
Definition: : thousand 1) a thousand 1a) as numeral 2) a thousand, company 2a) as a company of men under one leader, troops
Usage: Occurs in 390 OT verses. KJV: thousand. See also: Genesis 20:16; Joshua 3:4; 2 Kings 18:23.
מִ/יִּשְׂרָאֵל֒
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
"Israel"
Prep | N-proper
Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile
Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.
וַ/יִּהְי֨וּ
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
עִם
ʻim
H5973
"with"
Prep
This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.
Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as
Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.
שָׁא֜וּל
Shâʼûwl
H7586
"Shaul"
N-proper
Shaul is a personal name meaning desired, given to several individuals in the Bible, including a Benjamite who became the first king of Israel and a Levite living during the time of the Divided Monarchy. He is mentioned in 1 Chronicles and 1 Samuel.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ch.6.24; son of: Uzziah (H5818H); father of: Elkanah (H0511I); also called Joel at 1Ch.6.36; Also named: yo.el (יוֹאֵל "Joel" H3100U) § Saul or Shaul = "desired" 1) a Benjamite, son of Kish, and the 1st king of Israel 2) an early king of Edom and a successor of Samlah 3) a son of Simeon 4) a Levite, son of Uzziah
Usage: Occurs in 335 OT verses. KJV: Saul, Shaul. See also: Genesis 36:37; 1 Samuel 16:22; 1 Samuel 24:5.
אַלְפַּ֗יִם
ʼeleph
H505
"thousand"
Adj
A thousand, as in Exodus 20:6 where God shows love to thousands of people. It represents a large number or a company of people under one leader, like an army or a group of soldiers.
Definition: : thousand 1) a thousand 1a) as numeral 2) a thousand, company 2a) as a company of men under one leader, troops
Usage: Occurs in 390 OT verses. KJV: thousand. See also: Genesis 20:16; Joshua 3:4; 2 Kings 18:23.
בְּ/מִכְמָשׂ֙
Mikmâç
H4363
"Michmash"
Prep | N-proper
Mikmash was a city in ancient Palestine, near Ramah and about 10 miles north of Jerusalem. Its name means 'hidden' and it's mentioned in the Bible as a place in the tribe of Benjamin. Today, it's likely the site of modern Mukhmas.
Definition: § Michmas or Michmash = "hidden" a city in Benjamin lying near Ramah and approximately 10 miles (16 km) north of Jerusalem; probably modern 'Mukhmas'
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: Mikmas, Mikmash. See also: 1 Samuel 13:2; 1 Samuel 14:5; Isaiah 10:28.
וּ/בְ/הַ֣ר
har
H2022
"mountain"
Conj | Prep | N-ms
A mountain or hill, sometimes used to describe a spiritual high point. In the Bible, it can refer to a real mountain or a figurative one. The word is often translated as hill or mount.
Definition: : mount/hill hill, mountain, hill country, mount
Usage: Occurs in 486 OT verses. KJV: hill (country), mount(-ain), [idiom] promotion. See also: Genesis 7:19; Deuteronomy 3:12; Judges 18:13.
בֵּֽית
Bêyth-ʼÊl
H1008
"Bethel"
N-proper
Bethel, meaning house of God, is a significant location in the Bible, particularly in the book of Genesis. It was a place of worship and sacrifice, where Jacob had a vision of a ladder reaching to heaven. The name Bethel signifies its importance as a spiritual site, where God was believed to dwell.
Definition: § Bethel = "house of God" a place in south country of Judah
Usage: Occurs in 65 OT verses. KJV: Beth-el. See also: Genesis 12:8; 1 Samuel 30:27; Jeremiah 48:13.
אֵ֔ל
Bêyth-ʼÊl
H1008
"Bethel"
N-proper
Bethel, meaning house of God, is a significant location in the Bible, particularly in the book of Genesis. It was a place of worship and sacrifice, where Jacob had a vision of a ladder reaching to heaven. The name Bethel signifies its importance as a spiritual site, where God was believed to dwell.
Definition: § Bethel = "house of God" a place in south country of Judah
Usage: Occurs in 65 OT verses. KJV: Beth-el. See also: Genesis 12:8; 1 Samuel 30:27; Jeremiah 48:13.
וְ/אֶ֗לֶף
ʼeleph
H505
"thousand"
Conj | Adj
A thousand, as in Exodus 20:6 where God shows love to thousands of people. It represents a large number or a company of people under one leader, like an army or a group of soldiers.
Definition: : thousand 1) a thousand 1a) as numeral 2) a thousand, company 2a) as a company of men under one leader, troops
Usage: Occurs in 390 OT verses. KJV: thousand. See also: Genesis 20:16; Joshua 3:4; 2 Kings 18:23.
הָיוּ֙
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
עִם
ʻim
H5973
"with"
Prep
This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.
Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as
Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.
י֣וֹנָתָ֔ן
Yôwnâthân
H3129
"Jonathan"
N-proper
Jonathan means Jehovah has given, a name shared by several Israelites, including King Saul's son and a friend of David. He was a key figure in 1 Samuel and a brave warrior. Jonathan's story is told in the books of Samuel.
Definition: A man living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.23.32; son of: Shammah (H8048I) Another spelling of ye.ho.na.tan (יְהוֹנָתָן "Jonathan" H3083J) § Jonathan or Jehonathan = "Jehovah has given" 1) a son of king Saul and a friend of David 2) a son of the high priest Abiathar and the last descendant of Eli of whom we hear 3) one of David's mighty warriors 4) a Levite and father of Zechariah, a priest who blew the trumpet at the dedication of the wall 5) a son of Kareah and a brother of Johanan; a Judaite captain after the fall of Jerusalem 6) another Judaite 7) father of Ebed in the time of Ezra 8) son of Asahel in the time of Ezra 9) a priest of the family of Melicu in the time of Nehemiah 10) son of Joiada and his successor to the high priesthood in the time of Nehemiah
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: Jonathan. See also: Judges 18:30; 1 Samuel 14:42; Jeremiah 40:8.
בְּ/גִבְעַ֖ת
Gibʻâh
H1390
"Gibeah"
Prep | N-proper
Gibeah was a city in Palestine, specifically in the region of Benjamin, and was the birthplace of King Saul. The name means hill, and it is mentioned in various KJV translations as Gibeah or the hill.
Definition: § Gibeah = "hill" a city of Benjamin, birthplace of king Saul
Usage: Occurs in 42 OT verses. KJV: Gibeah, the hill. See also: Joshua 15:57; Judges 20:36; Isaiah 10:29.
בִּנְיָמִ֑ין
Binyâmîyn
H1144
"Benjamin"
N-proper
Benjamin means son of the right hand, referring to the youngest son of Jacob and the tribe that descended from him. The term is first used in Genesis 35:18. Benjamin was a brother of Joseph and a half-brother of Reuben and others.
Definition: § Benjamin = "son of the right hand" a gate in Jerusalem
Usage: Occurs in 160 OT verses. KJV: Benjamin. See also: Genesis 35:18; 1 Samuel 9:21; Psalms 68:28.
וְ/יֶ֣תֶר
yether
H3499
"remainder"
Conj | N-ms
A cord or rope, also meaning excess or remainder, as seen in the Bible's descriptions of leftovers or abundant resources.
Definition: 1) remainder, excess, rest, remnant, excellence 1a) remainder, remnant 1b) remainder, rest, other part 1c) excess 1d) abundantly (adv) 1e) abundance, affluence 1f) superiority, excellency
Usage: Occurs in 95 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] abundant, cord, exceeding, excellancy(-ent), what they leave, that hath left, plentifully, remnant, residue, rest, string, with. See also: Genesis 49:3; 2 Kings 15:26; Psalms 11:2.
הָ/עָ֔ם
ʻam
H5971
"Amaw"
Art | N-ms
A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.
Definition: This name means nation, people
Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.
שִׁלַּ֖ח
shâlach
H7971
"to send"
V-Piel-Perf-3ms
To send or depart is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which has various applications in the Bible. It can describe sending someone or something away, or letting something go.
Definition: : depart/send 1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to send 1a2) to stretch out, extend, direct 1a3) to send away 1a4) to let loose 1b) (Niphal) to be sent 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out 1c2) to let go, set free 1c3) to shoot forth (of branches) 1c4) to let down 1c5) to shoot 1d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled 1e) (Hiphil) to send
Usage: Occurs in 790 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring (on the way), cast (away, out), conduct, [idiom] earnestly, forsake, give (up), grow long, lay, leave, let depart (down, go, loose), push away, put (away, forth, in, out), reach forth, send (away, forth, out), set, shoot (forth, out), sow, spread, stretch forth (out). See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 9:27; Joshua 14:11.
אִ֥ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
לְ/אֹהָלָֽי/ו
ʼôhel
H168
"tent"
Prep | N-mp | Suff
The Hebrew word for a tent, often used to describe the tabernacle or a nomad's home. In Exodus 33:7-11, it refers to the sacred tent where God meets with Moses.
Definition: : tent 1) tent 1a) nomad's tent, and thus symbolic of wilderness life, transience 1b) dwelling, home, habitation 1c) the sacred tent of Jehovah (the tabernacle) Also means: o.hel (אֹ֫הֶל ": home" H0168H)
Usage: Occurs in 314 OT verses. KJV: covering, (dwelling) (place), home, tabernacle, tent. See also: Genesis 4:20; Leviticus 14:23; Joshua 22:4.
Study Notes — 1 Samuel 13:2
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 1 Samuel 13:2 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 13:2
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 13:2
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 13:2
- Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 13:2
- Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 13:2
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 13:2
- Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 13:2
- Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 13:2
- Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 13:2
- Sermons on 1 Samuel 13:2
Context — War with the Philistines
1Saul was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned over Israel forty-two years.
2He chose for himself three thousand men of Israel: Two thousand were with Saul at Michmash and in the hill country of Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin. And the rest of the troops he sent away, each to his own home.
3Then Jonathan attacked the Philistine outpost at Geba, and the Philistines heard about it. So Saul blew the ram’s horn throughout the land, saying, “Let the Hebrews hear!” 4And all Israel heard the news: “Saul has attacked an outpost of the Philistines, and now Israel has become a stench to the Philistines!” Then the people were summoned to join Saul at Gilgal.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Samuel 10:26 | Saul also went to his home in Gibeah, and the men of valor whose hearts God had touched went with him. |
| 2 | 1 Samuel 13:5 | Now the Philistines assembled to fight against Israel with three thousand chariots, six thousand horsemen, and troops as numerous as the sand on the seashore. They went up and camped at Michmash, east of Beth-aven. |
| 3 | 1 Samuel 14:31 | That day, after the Israelites had struck down the Philistines from Michmash to Aijalon, the people were very faint. |
| 4 | 1 Samuel 13:23 | And a garrison of the Philistines had gone out to the pass at Michmash. |
| 5 | 1 Samuel 14:5 | One cliff stood to the north toward Michmash, and the other to the south toward Geba. |
| 6 | Judges 19:12 | But his master replied, “We will not turn aside to the city of foreigners, where there are no Israelites. We will go on to Gibeah.” |
| 7 | 2 Samuel 21:6 | let seven of his male descendants be delivered to us so that we may hang them before the LORD at Gibeah of Saul, the chosen of the LORD.” “I will give them to you,” said the king. |
| 8 | 1 Samuel 15:34 | Then Samuel went to Ramah, but Saul went up to his home in Gibeah of Saul. |
| 9 | Joshua 18:28 | Zelah, Haeleph, Jebus (that is, Jerusalem), Gibeah, and Kiriath-jearim —fourteen cities, along with their villages. This was the inheritance of the clans of the tribe of Benjamin. |
| 10 | Isaiah 10:28–29 | Assyria has entered Aiath and passed through Migron, storing their supplies at Michmash. They have crossed at the ford: “We will spend the night at Geba.” Ramah trembles; Gibeah of Saul flees. |
1 Samuel 13:2 Summary
In 1 Samuel 13:2, we see Saul choosing three thousand men to stay with him, with two thousand in Michmash and the hill country of Bethel, and one thousand with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin. This shows that Saul was trying to establish a strong military presence, but he also sent the rest of the troops home, which could indicate that he was trying to trust in God or prepare for future battles (as seen in Judges 7:1-8). This event sets the stage for the rest of the chapter and Saul's reign, and reminds us of the importance of trusting in God and following His commands, as seen in Deuteronomy 20:1-4 and Proverbs 3:5-6.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Saul choose only three thousand men of Israel to stay with him?
Saul chose three thousand men to stay with him, which may indicate that he was trying to establish a smaller, more elite fighting force, as seen in 1 Samuel 13:2, but we also see that he sent the rest of the troops home, which could be a sign of his trust in God or his own military strategy, similar to when Gideon reduced the size of his army in Judges 7:1-8.
What is the significance of Jonathan being in Gibeah of Benjamin with a thousand men?
Jonathan being in Gibeah of Benjamin with a thousand men, as mentioned in 1 Samuel 13:2, shows that he had a significant role in Saul's military campaign and was likely being groomed for leadership, much like David was later, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:13.
Why did Saul send the rest of the troops away to their own homes?
Saul sent the rest of the troops away to their own homes, as stated in 1 Samuel 13:2, possibly to give them rest and to prepare for future battles, similar to when David gave his men rest in 2 Samuel 2:1-4, or to reduce the burden of feeding and caring for a large army, as seen in Deuteronomy 20:5-9.
How does this event relate to the rest of the chapter and Saul's reign?
This event in 1 Samuel 13:2 sets the stage for the rest of the chapter, which describes the conflict with the Philistines and Saul's actions as king, and ultimately, his disobedience to God's commands, as seen in 1 Samuel 13:8-14, which is similar to the pattern of disobedience seen in other kings, such as Solomon in 1 Kings 11:1-4.
Reflection Questions
- What can we learn from Saul's decision to choose only three thousand men to stay with him, and how can we apply this to our own lives and decisions?
- How does Jonathan's role in this verse reflect his character and faith, and what can we learn from his example?
- What are some possible reasons why Saul sent the rest of the troops away, and what does this reveal about his leadership and trust in God?
- How does this event foreshadow the rest of Saul's reign and his relationship with God, and what warnings or lessons can we take from this for our own lives?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 13:2
Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel,.... Out of the 300,000 that went with him to fight the Ammonites, and returned with him to Gilgal, where he now was, and had stayed as may be supposed
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 13:2
Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel; whereof two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 13:2
Saul chose, Heb. and (i.e. then, as that adverb is oft used, as 18:10, &c.) Saul chose. Three thousand men of Israel; which he thought sufficient for constant attendance and service, intending to summon the rest when need should be. Michmash; a tract of ground near Ramah and Beth-el, in the border of Benjamin, and near to the Philistines.
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 13:2
1 Samuel 13:2 Saul chose him three thousand [men] of Israel; [whereof] two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.Ver. 2. Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel.] Praesidiarios milites et stationarios, for a selected band to be ready on all occasions: and it was but needful; for the Philistines had well nigh ousted him from his kingdom: and therefore after that he had defeated them, he is said to "take the kingdom again," say some.
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 13:2
(2) Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel.—This is a very important statement, as it tells us of the first beginning of a standing army in Israel. This was the first step towards the development of Israel into a great military power. It was Saul’s military genius and foresight which enabled David and Solomon to make those great conquests which raised Israel for a time to the position of one of the greatest Eastern Powers. The really great life of Saul was frittered away in repelling what may be termed Israel’s domestic enemies. such as the Philistines, Moabites, Ammonites, and Edomites; but he left behind him a powerful and disciplined army, and a nation carefully trained to war. It has been asked, how was it, considering the position of Israel and the Philistines at that juncture—the latter people possessing evidently not a few strong places in the territories of the tribes, from whence they were in the habit of sallying forth, and harassing and pillaging the people—that Saul, instead of at once declaring war, dismissed the people gathered at Gilgal, only retaining so few? The probability is that Saul, with true military instinct, saw that Israel was at this period by no means trained or armed to undertake a regular war with such an enemy. He therefore adopted the wise course here related. Whereof two thousand were with Saul in Michmash.—Michmash was a position strongly situated at the head of a pass some nine miles north-east of Jerusalem. The “one thousand” he placed under the command of his son Jonathan, and stationed them in the neighbourhood of his old home, where he would have the benefit of the aid of his family and kinsfolk. This is the first mention of the gallant and chivalrous prince, the story of whose unbroken and romantic friendship with David is one of the most touching episodes of these books. “If the substance of this narrative was written in David’s reign, we may perhaps see the effect of David’s generous and loving nature in the care taken to give Jonathan his due place of honour in the history.”—Speaker’s Commentary.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 13:2
Verse 2. Two thousand were with Saul] Saul, no doubt, meditated the redemption of his country from the Philistines; and having chosen three thousand men, he thought best to divide them into companies, and send one against the Philistine garrison at Michmash, another against that at Beth-el, and the third against that at Gibeah: he perhaps hoped, by surprising these garrisons, to get swords and spears for his men, of which we find, (1 Samuel 13:22), they were entirely destitute.
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 13:2
2. Saul chose him three thousand men] And Saul chose, &c. The formation of a standing army marks an important epoch in the history of a nation. It was a natural result of the election of a king, who was to be a military leader. Cp. 1 Samuel 14:52. This body was only large enough to form a nucleus for the general levy of fighting men (1 Samuel 13:4), like the hus-carls of the Saxon kings for the Land-Fyrd. See Green’s Hist. of the Engl. People, p. 75. in Michmash] The villages of Mŭ ?khmâs and Jeba preserve the names and mark the sites of Michmash and Geba. They stand on the N. and S. respectively of the Wady es Suweinit, a deep ravine with precipitous sides running from the highlands of Benjamin to Jericho. “About two miles S. E. of Ai it becomes a narrow gorge with vertical precipices some 800 feet high.” Jonathan was in Gibeah, a few miles to the S.
W. of Geba. See note on 1 Samuel 10:5. We may conjecture that when Saul occupied Michmash the Philistines transferred their post, which had previously been at Gibeah (1 Samuel 10:5), to Geba, in order to watch him more closely. Jonathan thereupon seized Gibeah, from which he made the successful sally described in 1 Samuel 13:3. mount Beth-el] The high ground between Bethel and Michmash. Jonathan] The first mention of Saul’s eldest son, whose memory is famous not so much for his military achievements, as for his fast friendship with David. The name Jonathan means “the gift of Jehovah,” and may be compared with the Greek Theodore.
Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 13:2
The state of things which preceded the events described in this chapter seems to have been a comparative peace between Israel and the Philistines, since Saul had only 3,000 men under arms.
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 13:2
2. Saul chose… three thousand… of Israel — This was probably the first act of his reign, and done at Gilgal immediately after the renewal of the kingdom there.
Sermons on 1 Samuel 13:2
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Victory or Survival - Part 1 by Winkie Pratney | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Saul and the Israelites facing a dangerous enemy named Nehash. The Israelites were distressed and hid themselves in caves, rocks |
|
God’s Special Forces by David Wilkerson | David Wilkerson emphasizes that God is assembling a spiritual elite unit, akin to the U.S. Army's Special Forces, made up of dedicated volunteers who have been called and touched b |
|
I Samuel 26:21 by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith explores the life of Saul, emphasizing how despite his physical advantages and opportunities to lead God's people, he ultimately played the fool by failing to submit fu |
|
|
A Time to Do Nothing by David Wilkerson | David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of waiting on God through the story of Saul, who, despite being anointed and blessed by God, fell into disobedience and despair when faced |