1 Samuel 31:7
And when the men of Israel that were on the other side of the valley, and they that were on the other side Jordan, saw that the men of Israel fled, and that Saul and his sons were dead, they forsook the cities, and fled; and the Philistines came and dwelt in them.
1 Samuel 31:7 · King James Version
Meaning
After King Saul and his sons were killed in battle, the men of Israel saw that their army was defeated and fled in fear. This caused panic among the Israelites, leading them to abandon their cities and flee for safety. The Philistines, their longstanding enemies, took advantage of the situation and seized control of the deserted cities, making them their own. This event marked a devastating loss for the Israelites and a significant victory for the Philistines, changing the landscape of the region. The verse highlights the consequences of the defeat of the Israelite army and the subsequent retreat of the people, as well as the opportunistic actions of their enemies. It serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and strength in times of conflict and the consequences of defeat in battle.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the consequences of Israel's disobedience and lack of faith in God. The men of Israel were defeated in battle, leading to the death of Saul and his sons. This event shows the importance of trusting in God and following His commands, as the Israelites faced defeat when they turned away from Him. Additionally, the Philistines occupying the deserted cities symbolize the enemy's takeover when God's people abandon their land and flee in fear. This verse serves as a reminder of the need for unwavering faith and obedience to God, as well as the consequences of straying from His path.
1 Samuel 31:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
And when the men of Israel that were on the other side of the valley, and they that were beyond the Jordan, saw that the men of Israel fled, and that Saul and his sons were dead, they forsook the cities, and fled; and the Philistines came and dwelt in them.
World English Bible
When the men of Israel who were on the other side of the valley, and those who were beyond the Jordan, saw that the men of Israel fled, and that Saul and his sons were dead, they abandoned the cities, and fled; and the Philistines came and lived in them.
Douay-Rheims
And the men of Israel, that were beyond the valley, and beyond the Jordan, seeing that the Israelites were fled, and that Saul was dead, and his sons, forsook their cities, and fled: and the Philistines came and dwelt there.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when the men of Israel that were on the other side of the valley, and they of the other side Iorden saw that the men of Israel were put to flight, and that Saul and his sonnes were dead, then they left the cities, and ran away: and the Philistims came and dwelt in them.