The rescue of Jabesh-gilead, c. 1035 B.C.

Saul’s first trial as a military leader was the rescue of the beleaguered residents of Jabesh-gilead (1 Sam 11:1–11). Nahash, king of the sons of Ammon, laid siege to their town and had demanded cruel and humiliating terms of surrender. Saul mustered his forces at Bezek (Kh. Ibzîq) in the northeastern hills of Mount Ephraim. From there Saul and his forces made a surprise dash across the Jordan Valley to attack the Ammonite camp during the early morning watch. It will be remembered that there were ancient family ties between the people of Gibeah and Jabesh-gilead (Judg 21:14). Now there was a special relationship between Saul and the population of the town. They would not forget his act of deliverance. After this victory Saul did not disperse the forces gathered around him; he was anointed king before God by Samuel at Gilgal. By: Carta Jerusalem Language: English Print size: 2.83x3.25 in (7.2x8.3 cm) 150 dpi - 325 kB For your personal use only Watermarks will not appear in downloaded maps. For commercial and any other application please Contact Us