1 Samuel 10:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 10:27
27 But the children of Belial said, How shall this man save us? And they despised him, and brought him no presents. But he held his peace.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 10 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, obedience, judgment. Written during the transition to monarchy (c. 1050-1010 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Israel transitioned from tribal confederacy to monarchy while facing Philistine military pressure.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Samuel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Samuel 10:27
27 But the children of Belial said, How shall this man save us? And they despised him, and brought him no presents. But he held his peace.
Analysis
But the children of Belial said, How shall this man save us? And they despised him, and brought him no presents. But he held his peace.
The chapter concludes with immediate opposition from 'children of Belial' (benei beliya'al) - literally 'sons of worthlessness,' a Hebrew idiom for thoroughly wicked individuals. Their contemptuous question 'How shall this man save us?' (mah-yoshienu zeh) challenges both Saul's capacity and God's selection. Withholding customary gifts (minchah, tribute or present) constituted political rejection of his authority. Yet Saul's response - 'he held his peace' (vayehi kemaacharish, literally 'he was as one being silent') - demonstrates remarkable restraint. This self-control contrasts sharply with his later violent reactions to perceived slights. Early Saul could absorb insult without retaliation; later Saul would slaughter an entire priestly city for suspected disloyalty. The presence of opposition from day one shows that even God-chosen leaders face rejection; success depends not on universal approval but on faithful obedience to divine calling.
Historical Context
The term 'Belial' appears throughout the Old Testament for worthless or wicked persons. Its etymology is debated (perhaps 'without profit' or 'without yoke/restraint'). These opponents may have had tribal jealousies (non-Benjamites resenting Benjamin's elevation) or doubts about Saul's military credentials.
Reflection
- How do you respond to those who question or oppose your God-given calling?
- What does the contrast between early Saul's restraint and later Saul's violence teach about character development?
Word Studies
- Save: יָשַׁע (Yasha) H3467 - To save, deliver, rescue
Cross-References
- Peace: Isaiah 36:21
- Parallel theme: 1 Samuel 2:12, Deuteronomy 13:13, 1 Kings 4:21, 10:25, 2 Chronicles 13:7, 17:5