MPV Commentary

Saul, Weary of Waiting for Samuel, Sacrifices.

Saul said, "Bring me a burnt offering and peace offerings." This request was driven by his ambition to gain personal glory from the victory rather than acknowledging God's role in it. He didn't understand his position as king of Israel, and he wanted to rule with absolute power over both civil and sacred matters. This was his first test, and Samuel waited until the last day to see if Saul would respect the constitutional boundaries of his office.

By sacrificing without waiting for Samuel, Saul knowingly transgressed (1Sa 13:12) and demonstrated his unfitness for kingship, showing no faith like that of Gideon and other Hebrew generals. This act incurred a threat of rejection, which was later confirmed by his wayward behavior.

Samuel went to Gibeah, while Saul, Jonathan his son, and the people with them remained in Gibeah. Saul likely moved his camp there hoping for increased support or seeking Samuel's counsel and influence as a prophet.

The Philistines' spoilers emerged from their camp in three companies, ravaging through the valleys of Michmash, Beth-horon, and Zeboim towards the Jordan valley.

There was no blacksmith found throughout Israel, indicating the country's state of depression and degradation. The Philistines had become the dominant force after defeating the sons of Eli, disarming the native population as a policy often followed in the East. For repairing damaged agricultural tools, they relied on neighboring forts.

Yet, they were allowed to have a file for sharpening smaller utensils of husbandry.