Endnote 7 – Saul as Sacrifice

The peculiar report on the disposition of Saul’s body recalls two other instances of dismemberment. The first instance is the event that makes Saul’s reputation and brings public support for his kingship; he dismembers plow oxen and sends the parts to the tribes of Israel in order to rally forces for the deliverance of Jabesh-Gilead (1 Samuel 11:5–7). The second instance takes place immediately after his rejection by Samuel at Gilgal (1 Samuel 15:31–35). When Saul begs Samuel to worship Yahweh with him, Samuel agrees. It soon becomes apparent, however, that the mode of worship will be somewhat unconventional. Calling for Agag, the captured Amalekite king, Samuel hacks him to pieces (a foreshadowing of Saul’s fate?). Thus dismemberment figures prominently at the three major junctures of Saul’s story: his ratification by the people, his rejection and his death.