John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 8. And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel had appointed , etc.] He tarried to the seventh day, but not to the end of it, or towards the close of it, as he should have done: but Samuel came not to Gilgal ; so soon as Saul expected: and the people were scattered from him ; many deserted him, the Philistines drawing nigh, and Samuel not coming, as Saul expected, and had given the people reason to expect.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 8-14 - Saul broke the order expressly given by Samuel, see ch. 1Sa 10:8, as to what should be done in cases of extremity. Saul offered sacrific without Samuel, and did it himself, though he was neither priest no prophet. When charged with disobedience, he justified himself in what he had done, and gave no sign of repentance for it. He would have thi act of disobedience pass for an instance of his prudence, and as proof of his piety. Men destitute of inward piety, often lay grea stress on the outward performances of religion. Samuel charges Sau with being an enemy to himself. Those that disobey the commandments of God, do foolishly for themselves. Sin is folly, and the greates sinners are the greatest fools. Our disposition to obey or disobey God will often be proved by our behaviour in things which appear small. Me see nothing but Saul's outward act, which seems small; but God saw tha he did this with unbelief and distrust of his providence, with contemp of his authority and justice, and with rebellion against the light of his own conscience. Blessed Saviour, may we never, like Saul, bring ou poor offerings, or fancied peace-offerings, without looking to the precious, thy all-sufficient sacrifice! Thou only, O Lord, canst make or hast made, our peace in the blood of the cross.
Original Hebrew וייחל3176 שׁבעת7651 ימים3117 למועד4150 אשׁר834 שׁמואל8050 ולא3808 בא935 שׁמואל8050 הגלגל1537 ויפץ6327 העם5971 מעליו׃5921
