1 Samuel 11:2

Arabic Bible AVD 1999 (الكتاب المقدس)

فَقَالَ لَهُمْ نَاحَاشُ ٱلْعَمُّونِيُّ: «بِهَذَا أَقْطَعُ لَكُمْ. بِتَقْوِيرِ كُلِّ عَيْنٍ يُمْنَى لَكُمْ وَجَعْلِ ذَلِكَ عَارًا عَلَى جَمِيعِ إِسْرَائِيلَ».

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, Nahash the Ammonite is speaking to the people of Jabesh-gilead. He proposes a cruel condition for a treaty: he will only make peace if he can blind all their right eyes, which would be a great shame to all Israel.

Explained for Children

Imagine a bully saying, 'I'll only be your friend if you let me paint half your face blue.' Nahash the Ammonite is like that bully, but his demand is much worse and very mean to the people of Jabesh-gilead.

Historical Background

The book of 1 Samuel was written by various authors, possibly including Samuel, Nathan, and Gad, around the 10th century BCE. It was written for the Israelites to record the history of their leaders and the consequences of their choices. This verse reflects the political and military tensions between the Israelites and their neighbors.

Living It Out Today

Today, we might see this as an analogy for a situation where someone makes an unreasonable and harmful demand in order to maintain a relationship or agreement. Consider a boss who insists on unreasonable hours from their employees, causing harm and shame to their work-life balance.

Topics

• cruelty
• negotiation
• shame
• sacrifice
• covenant
• consequences

Related Verses

• 2 Samuel 10:2-3
• Isaiah 29:16
• Jeremiah 17:10
• Matthew 5:28
• Acts 9:18

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Nahash demand the right eyes?

Nahash likely demanded the right eyes as a way to humiliate the people of Jabesh-gilead and to show his power over them. This would also serve as a warning to other potential enemies.

How did the Israelites respond to this demand?

The Israelites sought help from Saul, who rallied the people and led them to defeat Nahash and save Jabesh-gilead from this cruel condition.

What does this say about the nature of covenants in ancient times?

This verse illustrates that covenants were often accompanied by harsh conditions, and that they could involve significant personal or communal sacrifices.

How can this story be relevant to us today?

This story reminds us of the importance of standing up against unreasonable demands and the value of solidarity in facing adversity.