Nahash
The Brutal King Defeated by Saul
Name Information
- Meaning: "Serpent"
- Language of Origin: Hebrew
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Nahash was the Ammonite king who besieged Jabesh-Gilead and demanded that every man’s right eye be gouged out as a condition for peace. His cruelty galvanized Israel to unity and allowed Saul to rise as a military leader and king. Nahash became a symbol of oppression crushed by God's chosen deliverer.
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Roles
- King
- Enemy of Israel
- Oppressor
Relationships
- Enemy: Saul
Story
Nahash encircled Jabesh-Gilead and offered peace only if he could blind every man in the city.
The elders of Jabesh asked for seven days to seek help, and Nahash agreed.
News reached Saul, who was still a farmer at the time, and the Spirit of God rushed upon him.
Saul rallied the tribes of Israel with fiery determination, attacked the Ammonites, and crushed their army.
The people then confirmed Saul as king at Gilgal, rejoicing in the Lord’s deliverance.
Spiritual Significance
- Nahash laid siege to Jabesh-Gilead and proposed a humiliating, violent treaty — gouging out their right eyes.
- His threat revealed the vulnerability of Israel before Saul’s kingship.
- When the people cried for help, Saul responded by rallying Israel’s tribes and defeating Nahash decisively.
- This event unified Israel and marked the beginning of Saul’s reign with victory and glory.
What We Can Learn
- Oppression often provokes deliverance — God raises leaders in times of threat.
- Cruelty and pride lead to downfall, no matter how strong the oppressor appears.
- God’s Spirit equips His chosen ones with courage and authority in moments of crisis.
Memory Verses
The dread of the Lord fell upon the people, and they came out as one man.
— 1 Samuel 11:7
Key Passages
- 1 Samuel 11
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