1 Samuel 14:33
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What's really striking here is that Saul’s immediate response to the news of people sinning isn't to correct the sin itself, but to focus on the method of correction: rolling a great stone. This points to a desire for order and perhaps a deeper issue of fear or control, rather than a pure heart focused on restoring people to God. It shows how easily we can get caught up in the how of obedience, missing the why and the heart of the matter.
Then they told Saul, “Behold, the people are sinning against the LORD by eating with the blood.” And he said, “You have dealt treacherously; roll a great stone to me here.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
After a great victory, the Israelites are so ravenous that they begin to eat meat with the blood still in it, a clear violation of God's Law. Saul, upon hearing of this, immediately calls for a large stone, signifying his intention to address this sin head-on. This sets the stage for his attempt to rectify the situation and deal with the people's disobedience.
What seems like a minor detail to us today was a major offense to God back then. Why was eating with the blood so serious for ancient Israel?
A Sacred Boundary
In ancient Israel, God’s commands were meant to set His people apart from the surrounding nations. One of the most sacred boundaries concerned blood. The Law given through Moses was very clear:
When the people were found eating with the blood, it wasn't just about a dietary rule; it was about their commitment to the LORD their God.
Saul’s reaction is immediate and severe. What does his demand for a 'great stone' reveal about his understanding of leadership and sin?
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Immediate Judgment
When Saul hears about the people sinning, his response is not one of gentle correction but of immediate, decisive action. This reveals several things about his perspective and the gravity of the offense:
Recognizing Treachery
Saul declares, 'You have dealt treacherously.' This word implies a betrayal of trust, a breaking of faith. For Saul, the people’s actions weren't just a mistake; they were a deliberate act of disloyalty against God and, by extension, against his leadership as God's anointed king.
The Need for a Public Act
His command, 'roll a great stone to me here,' points to the need for a public demonstration of judgment and cleansing. In ancient times, stones were often used to mark places of sin, judgment, or burial. Saul’s intention was likely to set up a place for the proper disposal of the blood, signifying the removal of this sin and a return to obedience. It was a public declaration that this sin would not stand and that covenant faithfulness was paramount.
Understand the original words
chata' · Hebrew Verb
Refers to the act of missing the mark or violating the holy character and moral law of God. Sin is a transgression against the LORD that carries spiritual, communal, and legal consequences within the covenant framework.
YHWH · Hebrew Proper Noun
Yahweh, the personal, covenantal name of the God of Israel. It emphasizes His sovereignty, holiness, and the unique relationship He established with His people.
dam · Hebrew Noun
In the Old Testament, blood is considered the life-principle of a living creature, and it is strictly forbidden for consumption because it belongs to God and is designated for atonement on the altar. Eating blood is portrayed as a violation of the sanctity of life and an affront to divine law.
bagad · Hebrew Verb
To act unfaithfully, deceitfully, or to break a covenantal commitment. It often implies a breach of trust against someone, especially when that relationship is defined by law or divine command.
The verse highlights the intense pressure of the Philistine conflict, a context where Saul's rash commands and the people's hunger could lead to immediate, life-threatening consequences and violations of God's law.
c. 1010 BC
Saul Anointed King
Samuel anoints Saul as the first king of Israel, marking a significant shift in Israel's governance from judges to monarchy.
c. 1010-1000 BC
Saul's Early Reign and Philistine Threat
Saul's early years as king are marked by struggles to consolidate power and constant conflict with the encroaching Philistines.
c. 1005 BC— this verse
Battle of Michmash
Saul's army is heavily outnumbered by the Philistines at Michmash, leading to a desperate situation and a risky counter-attack by Jonathan.
c. 1005 BC
Jonathan's Transgression
Jonathan, unaware of Saul's rash vow, eats honey, violating Saul's command not to eat anything until evening.
c. 1005 BC
Saul's Vow and Enforcement
Saul, upon hearing of the people's actions and Jonathan's transgression, declares a curse and vows to execute anyone who eats before sunset.
This passage directly prohibits eating blood, explaining the deep spiritual and ritual impurity associated with it, which is why Saul immediately recognized the sin.
Genesis 9:4This earlier command given to Noah, after the flood, also forbids eating meat with its lifeblood still in it, highlighting the ancient and foundational nature of this prohibition.
Centuries later, the early church council reaffirmed this prohibition against eating blood, showing its enduring importance for the people of God across different eras.
The prophet Ezekiel confronts those who eat meat with blood, associating it with idolatry and defilement, underscoring the gravity of this sin as a sign of rebellion against the Lord.
What's really striking here is that Saul’s immediate response to the news of people sinning isn't to correct the sin itself, but to focus on the method of correction: rolling a great stone. This points to a desire for order and perhaps a deeper issue of fear or control, rather than a pure heart focused on restoring people to God. It shows how easily we can get caught up in the how of obedience, missing the why and the heart of the matter.
After a great victory, the Israelites are so ravenous that they begin to eat meat with the blood still in it, a clear violation of God's Law. Saul, upon hearing of this, immediately calls for a large stone, signifying his intention to address this sin head-on. This sets the stage for his attempt to rectify the situation and deal with the people's disobedience.
After a great victory, the Israelites are so ravenous that they begin to eat meat with the blood still in it, a clear violation of God's Law. Saul, upon hearing of this, immediately calls for a large stone, signifying his intention to address this sin head-on. This sets the stage for his attempt to rectify the situation and deal with the people's disobedience.
"Then they told Saul, “Behold, the people are sinning against the LORD by eating with the blood.” And he said, “You have dealt treacherously; roll a great stone to me here.”" — What's really striking here is that Saul’s immediate response to the news of people sinning isn't to correct the sin itself, but to focus on the method of correction: rolling a great stone. This po…
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Last reviewed October 2026
