1 Samuel 13 23

1 Samuel 13:23 kjv

And the garrison of the Philistines went out to the passage of Michmash.

1 Samuel 13:23 nkjv

And the garrison of the Philistines went out to the pass of Michmash.

1 Samuel 13:23 niv

Now a detachment of Philistines had gone out to the pass at Mikmash.

1 Samuel 13:23 esv

And the garrison of the Philistines went out to the pass of Michmash.

1 Samuel 13:23 nlt

The pass at Micmash had meanwhile been secured by a contingent of the Philistine army.

1 Samuel 13 verses

1 Samuel 13 23 Meaning

This verse states that a Philistine garrison advanced from their stronghold and positioned themselves strategically at the pass leading to Michmash. This movement intensified the Philistine's control over the territory and their oppressive presence, setting the stage for the dramatic confrontation that would unfold. It highlights the strategic military situation and the clear challenge facing the Israelite army under Saul.

1 Samuel 13 23 Context

1 Samuel chapter 13 immediately precedes this verse, detailing Saul's initial victories against the Philistines (specifically attacking their garrison at Geba) which provoked a massive Philistine response. Saul, facing an overwhelming enemy army and suffering from widespread desertion, made an unlawful sacrifice without waiting for Samuel. This act of disobedience resulted in Samuel declaring that Saul's kingdom would not endure. The Israelite army was in disarray, severely outnumbered, and crucially, deprived of weapons and blacksmiths due to Philistine oppression (1 Sam 13:19-22). The mention of the Philistine garrison advancing to the pass of Michmash, therefore, portrays a critical, precarious moment for Israel, highlighting their vulnerable state and the formidable strength and strategic positioning of their Philistine oppressors, setting the precise location for the upcoming events in chapter 14.

1 Samuel 13 23 Word analysis

• And (וְהִנֵּה, vəhinneh): This conjunctive particle often serves to introduce a significant event or a new, sometimes dramatic, development. It can be translated as "and behold," drawing attention to the imminent and important action of the Philistines, effectively signaling a narrative shift towards the crucial impending conflict.
• the garrison (נְצִיב, nᵊtsiyḇ): This Hebrew term is central to understanding Philistine dominance. While often rendered "garrison," its meaning is broader, signifying an "appointed official" or a "standing post." Here, it denotes a military detachment permanently stationed to maintain control. This wasn't merely a mobile force, but a fixed point of Philistine authority, intended to oppress, enforce tribute, and suppress any Israeli rebellion. It represents the oppressive infrastructure of Philistine rule.
• of the Philistines (הַפְּלִשְׁתִּים, hapᵊlishtiym): Explicitly identifies the enemy, emphasizing their foreign and powerful presence that held the Israelites in subjugation. The Philistines were the primary antagonists, known for their advanced military technology and organized structure, as evidenced by their ability to maintain such garrisons.
• went out (יָצָא, yatza): Means to "go out," "come forth," or "proceed." In this military context, it signifies an active, strategic deployment or advance. It's not a casual movement but a deliberate positioning of their forces, signaling a more aggressive stance or tightening their grip on the territory.
• to the pass (מַעֲבַר, maʿăḇar): Refers to a "crossing-place," a "ford," or critically, a "mountain pass" or "defile." Michmash pass is geographically significant, a deep gorge flanked by steep cliffs (Wadi Suweinit), making it a natural chokepoint and a strategically vital position. Control of such passes allowed armies to control movement, divide enemy forces, and levy tolls, illustrating the Philistines' dominance over key communication and travel routes.
• of Michmash (מִכְמָס, Mikhmas): A specific geographical location, known as a Philistine outpost since earlier times. Its strategic importance as a defile and a boundary point between Saul's kingdom and Philistine territory makes this detail crucial. The presence of the garrison here cements the Philistine control over this critical gateway.

• the garrison of the Philistines: This phrase powerfully encapsulates the foreign military occupation and suppression that Israel faced. It suggests a permanent, organized presence aimed at maintaining subjugation rather than just launching temporary raids.
• went out to the pass of Michmash: This group of words describes the precise, strategic movement of the enemy forces. They are not retreating; they are advancing to a critical, easily defensible choke point, emphasizing their initiative and superior tactical position and the immediate danger posed to Israel. This movement is a direct setup for the miraculous deliverance God brings through Jonathan in 1 Samuel 14.

1 Samuel 13 23 Bonus section

The topography of Michmash Pass, a deep ravine separating Michmash from Geba/Geba, plays a silent but significant role. It served as a natural barrier, difficult to cross, and thus made a Philistine garrison stationed there almost unassailable through conventional attack. This verse subtly highlights the near-insurmountable natural obstacles coupled with human oppression, amplifying the significance of Jonathan's faith-fueled attack across this very pass in the subsequent chapter. It portrays a military scenario designed by human might to be unbreakable, creating the perfect stage for God's dramatic and supernatural intervention.

1 Samuel 13 23 Commentary

1 Samuel 13:23 succinctly describes the tactical positioning of the Philistine enemy, setting a grim scene for the Israelite forces. The "garrison" signifies not merely a band of soldiers but an established outpost reflecting the Philistines' pervasive and oppressive control over key areas of Israel. Their move "to the pass of Michmash," a renowned and rugged strategic choke point, demonstrates their military savvy in securing vital ground. This single verse effectively summarizes the overwhelming odds faced by Israel: a numerically superior, technologically advanced (due to control over blacksmiths), and strategically well-positioned Philistine army. It foreshadows the coming confrontation in 1 Samuel 14, where Jonathan, driven by faith and God's power, challenges this seemingly impenetrable Philistine stronghold, showcasing divine victory over impossible human odds.