1 Samuel 10:27
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What's striking here is Saul's quiet response to the disrespect. While the "worthless fellows" openly doubt and insult him, he doesn't retaliate or try to prove himself; he simply remains silent, which the text calls "holding his peace." This silence isn't weakness, but a remarkable restraint and trust in God's plan, even when facing immediate rejection.
But some worthless fellows said, “How can this man save us?” And they despised him and brought him no present. But he held his peace.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Just after Samuel anoints Saul as Israel's first king, a faction of disgruntled people openly question Saul's ability to lead and offer him no tribute, essentially disrespecting his newfound authority. Saul's response here, his quiet endurance, sets the stage for his later reign, showing an initial restraint that will be tested as his kingship progresses.
Ever felt overlooked or underestimated? Saul experienced this firsthand when his future as king was met with doubt and scorn.
The Bible doesn't shy away from the harsh realities people faced, even those chosen by God.
The Scoffers
When Samuel anointed Saul as king, not everyone was impressed. A group of 'worthless fellows' (think troublemakers, rebels) openly questioned Saul's ability to lead and save them. Their words were laced with contempt, a direct challenge to God's choice and Saul's destiny. They not only doubted him verbally but also refused to give him any 'present' – a customary gift showing respect and acknowledgment of authority. This was a public act of defiance and disrespect.
The Impact
This kind of opposition can be incredibly demoralizing. It questions your very capability and worth. It’s easy to imagine how this would have fueled insecurity in Saul, especially as he was still transitioning into his new role. This wasn't just idle gossip; it was a calculated effort to undermine his legitimacy from the start.
In the face of open hostility, Saul chose silence. What can we learn from this seemingly passive reaction?
Saul’s response here is remarkable. Instead of retaliating with anger or defensiveness, he 'held his peace.' This wasn't weakness, but a profound display of self-control and trust.
Wisdom in Silence
Choosing silence in the face of provocation is a powerful strategy. It:
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A Model for Us
This doesn't mean we never speak up against injustice. But it teaches us that not every insult or criticism requires an immediate, emotional response. Sometimes, the wisest and strongest path is to remain calm, process the situation, and trust that our character and actions will ultimately speak for themselves, especially when we know God is on our side.
Understand the original words
beliyya'al · Hebrew Noun phrase
In the Bible, this describes individuals who are base, villainous, or morally empty, lacking respect for God or the established order; they are often contrasted with the godly.
yasha' · Hebrew Verb
A title or function referring to one who delivers, protects, or liberates God’s people from external oppression or internal crisis, ultimately finding its fulfillment in the Messiah.
bazah · Hebrew Verb
To regard someone or something as having no worth or value; it denotes contempt, rejection, or a refusal to recognize the authority or status of another.
minchah · Hebrew Noun
A formal offering, gift, or tribute given to a superior or king as a sign of recognition, submission, respect, or homage.
charash · Hebrew Verb
A posture of restraint, self-control, and silence, often in the face of provocation or insult, demonstrating trust in God's sovereignty rather than reacting in fleshly anger.
The verse captures the immediate skepticism Saul faced upon his public presentation as king. Despite being chosen by God and anointed by Samuel, not all Israelites accepted his authority, highlighting the deep divisions and challenges to establishing unified leadership in a newly forming monarchy.
c. 1070 BC— this verse
Reign of King Saul Begins
Samuel the prophet anoints Saul as the first king of Israel, a pivotal moment marking the transition from the era of judges to monarchy. This event is central to Saul's rise to power.
c. 1070 BC
Saul's Initial Military Victories
Saul achieves early successes, notably defeating the Ammonites. These victories begin to unify the tribes and establish his authority as king.
c. 1060 BC
Saul's Wars with Philistines and others
Saul wages continuous warfare against the Philistines, Amalekites, and other neighboring peoples. These ongoing conflicts shape the political landscape and test Saul's leadership.
c. 1050 BC
David Anointed King
Samuel secretly anoints David, a young shepherd from Bethlehem, as the future king of Israel, foreshadowing Saul's eventual downfall and David's rise.
Just as the people in Nazareth expressed doubt and disbelief about Jesus's claims, some in Saul's time questioned his ability to lead and provide for them.
Psalm 3:2This psalm echoes the sentiment of many who face mockery and doubt from others, finding solace and vindication in God despite the scorn.
1 Corinthians 1:26-29Paul highlights how God often chooses the seemingly weak or unimpressive to accomplish His purposes, a theme that resonates with Saul's humble beginnings and the people's initial dismissal of him.
John 1:11Jesus experienced a similar rejection from His own people, who did not receive Him despite His divine authority and mission.
What's striking here is Saul's quiet response to the disrespect. While the "worthless fellows" openly doubt and insult him, he doesn't retaliate or try to prove himself; he simply remains silent, which the text calls "holding his peace." This silence isn't weakness, but a remarkable restraint and trust in God's plan, even when facing immediate rejection.
Just after Samuel anoints Saul as Israel's first king, a faction of disgruntled people openly question Saul's ability to lead and offer him no tribute, essentially disrespecting his newfound authority. Saul's response here, his quiet endurance, sets the stage for his later reign, showing an initial restraint that will be tested as his kingship progresses.
Just after Samuel anoints Saul as Israel's first king, a faction of disgruntled people openly question Saul's ability to lead and offer him no tribute, essentially disrespecting his newfound authority. Saul's response here, his quiet endurance, sets the stage for his later reign, showing an initial restraint that will be tested as his kingship progresses.
"But some worthless fellows said, “How can this man save us?” And they despised him and brought him no present. But he held his peace." — What's striking here is Saul's quiet response to the disrespect. While the "worthless fellows" openly doubt and insult him, he doesn't retaliate or try to prove himself; he simply remains silent, whi…
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Last reviewed October 2026
