And all Israel heard say that Saul had smitten a garrison of the Philistines, and that Israel also was had in abomination with the Philistines. And the people were called together after Saul to Gilgal.
All of Israel heard the news that Saul had attacked a Philistine military outpost, and that because of this, the Philistines now hated Israel even more. So the people gathered together to follow Saul at Gilgal.
This verse shows how Saul's military victory against the Philistines united Israel behind him, even though it made their enemies hate them more.
📚 Historical Context
This takes place early in Saul's reign as Israel's first king, when the Philistines controlled much of the land and had military outposts throughout Israel's territory. The attack on the garrison was likely led by Jonathan (Saul's son) as mentioned in the previous verse, but Saul received credit as king. Gilgal was a significant gathering place for Israel, where Samuel had previously confirmed Saul's kingship.
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