1 Samuel 11:15 Meaning and Explanation
“And all the people went to Gilgal; and there they made Saul king before the LORD in Gilgal; and there they sacrificed sacrifices of peace offerings before the LORD; and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →At Gilgal the people confirm Saul as king before the LORD, offer peace offerings, and rejoice greatly.
What Does 1 Samuel 11:15 Mean?
All Israel gathers at Gilgal and makes Saul king 'before the LORD,' placing the act squarely in God's presence. They offer peace offerings, sacrifices that express fellowship and thanksgiving, and the whole nation rejoices greatly. What began in fear and weeping ends in worship and shared joy.
The repeated phrase 'before the LORD' shows that Israel's kingship was meant to rest under God's own rule. The peace offerings declare a restored bond between God and His people, sealed in gladness. Here is the pattern of true celebration: deliverance leads to worship, and worship to joy. Every salvation God works is meant to draw His people together before Him in thanksgiving, looking ahead to the lasting peace He gives through His own anointed King.
1 Samuel 11:15 in the Original Language
shelem (שֶׁלֶם), 'peace offering' -- a sacrifice of fellowship and thanksgiving, shared before God to mark restored peace with Him.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Samuel 11:15
What does 1 Samuel 11:15 mean?
At Gilgal the people confirm Saul as king before the LORD, offer peace offerings, and rejoice greatly.