Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 15 - Verse 4

In this verse from the book of 1 Samuel, we see Saul, the first king of Israel, gathering the people together and taking a census of the military strength of his kingdom. The verse mentions that there were two hundred thousand footsoldiers and ten thousand men from the tribe of Judah. This act of numbering the people was common in ancient times as a way of assessing the strength of the army and preparing for potential conflicts or wars. It also served as a way for the king to show his authority and demonstrate his ability to protect and lead his people. However, taking a census was not without its risks, as it sometimes led to discontent among the people or even divine punishment. This verse provides insight into the military organization and power dynamics of ancient Israel under Saul's rule.

In this verse from the book of 1 Samuel, we see Saul, the first king of Israel, gathering an army to face their enemies. The word "numbered" in this passage comes from the Hebrew word "pāqad," which can mean to appoint, assign, or muster. This shows us that Saul took great care in organizing and preparing his troops for battle. The mention of two hundred thousand footmen and ten thousand men of Judah highlights the strength and size of Saul's army, indicating that he was well-equipped to face any threats that came their way. Telaim, the place where Saul gathered the people, is not explicitly mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, leaving scholars to speculate about its exact location. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of strategic planning and preparation when facing challenges, as well as the significance of leadership in guiding a people towards a common goal.