1 Samuel 7:7
New International Version
When the Philistines heard that Israel had assembled at Mizpah, the rulers of the Philistines came up to attack them. When the Israelites heard of it, they were afraid because of the Philistines.

New Living Translation
When the Philistine rulers heard that Israel had gathered at Mizpah, they mobilized their army and advanced. The Israelites were badly frightened when they learned that the Philistines were approaching.

English Standard Version
Now when the Philistines heard that the people of Israel had gathered at Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the people of Israel heard of it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

Berean Standard Bible
When the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah, their rulers marched up toward Israel. And when the Israelites learned of this, they feared the Philistines

King James Bible
And when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together to Mizpeh, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

New King James Version
Now when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel had gathered together at Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard of it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

New American Standard Bible
Now when the Philistines heard that the sons of Israel had gathered at Mizpah, the governors of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the sons of Israel heard about it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

NASB 1995
Now when the Philistines heard that the sons of Israel had gathered to Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the sons of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

NASB 1977
Now when the Philistines heard that the sons of Israel had gathered to Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the sons of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

Legacy Standard Bible
Then the Philistines heard that the sons of Israel had gathered to Mizpah. And the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. Then the sons of Israel heard it and were afraid of the Philistines.

Amplified Bible
Now when the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah, the lords (governors) of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the Israelites heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

Christian Standard Bible
When the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah, their rulers marched up toward Israel. When the Israelites heard about it, they were afraid because of the Philistines.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
When the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah, their rulers marched up toward Israel. When the Israelites heard about it, they were afraid because of the Philistines.

American Standard Version
And when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together to Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

Contemporary English Version
When the Philistine rulers found out about the meeting at Mizpah, they sent an army there to attack the people of Israel. The Israelites were afraid when they heard that the Philistines were coming.

English Revised Version
And when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together to Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
When the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah, the Philistine rulers came to attack Israel. The Israelites heard [about the Philistine plan] and were afraid of them.

Good News Translation
When the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah, the five Philistine kings started out with their men to attack them. The Israelites heard about it and were afraid,

International Standard Version
When the Philistines heard that the Israelis had gathered at Mizpah, the Philistine lords came up against Israel. When the Israelis heard this, they were afraid of the Philistines.

Majority Standard Bible
When the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah, their rulers marched up toward Israel. And when the Israelites learned of this, they feared the Philistines

NET Bible
When the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah, the leaders of the Philistines went up against Israel. When the Israelites heard about this, they were afraid of the Philistines.

New Heart English Bible
When the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together at Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. When the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

Webster's Bible Translation
And when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were assembled at Mizpeh, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

World English Bible
When the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together at Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. When the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And the Philistines hear that the sons of Israel have gathered themselves to Mizpeh; and the princes of the Philistines go up against Israel, and the sons of Israel hear, and are afraid of the presence of the Philistines.

Young's Literal Translation
And the Philistines hear that the sons of Israel have gathered themselves to Mizpeh; and the princes of the Philistines go up against Israel, and the sons of Israel hear, and are afraid of the presence of the Philistines.

Smith's Literal Translation
And Philisteim will hear that the sons of Israel were gathered together to Mizpeh, and the princes of Philisteim will go up against Israel And the sons of Israel will hear, and be afraid of the face of Philisteim.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together to Masphath, and the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard this, they were afraid of the Philistines.

Catholic Public Domain Version
And the Philistines heard that the sons of Israel had gathered together at Mizpah. And the princes of the Philistines ascended against Israel. And when the sons of Israel had heard this, they were afraid before the face of the Philistines.

New American Bible
When the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah, their leaders went up against Israel. Hearing this, the Israelites became afraid of the Philistines

New Revised Standard Version
When the Philistines heard that the people of Israel had gathered at Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the people of Israel heard of it they were afraid of the Philistines.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together at Mizpeh, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered to Metspaya, and the Tyrants of the Philistines came up against Israel, and the children of Israel heard, and they were afraid before the Philistines
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together to Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And the Philistines heard that all the children of Israel were gathered together to Massephath: and the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel: and the children of Israel heard, and they feared before the Philistines.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Samuel Subdues the Philistines
6When they had gathered at Mizpah, they drew water and poured it out before the LORD. On that day they fasted, and there they confessed, “We have sinned against the LORD.” And Samuel judged the Israelites at Mizpah. 7When the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah, their rulers marched up toward Israel. And when the Israelites learned of this, they feared the Philistines 8and said to Samuel, “Do not stop crying out to the LORD our God for us, that He may save us from the hand of the Philistines.”…

Cross References
Judges 10:10-16
Then the Israelites cried out to the LORD, saying, “We have sinned against You, for we have indeed forsaken our God and served the Baals.” / The LORD replied, “When the Egyptians, Amorites, Ammonites, Philistines, / Sidonians, Amalekites, and Maonites oppressed you and you cried out to Me, did I not save you from their hands? ...

2 Chronicles 20:1-4
After this, the Moabites and Ammonites, together with some of the Meunites, came to make war against Jehoshaphat. / Then some men came and told Jehoshaphat, “A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from beyond the Sea; they are already in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, En-gedi). / Jehoshaphat was alarmed and set his face to seek the LORD. And he proclaimed a fast throughout Judah. ...

Exodus 14:10-14
As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up and saw the Egyptians marching after them, and they were terrified and cried out to the LORD. / They said to Moses, “Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us into the wilderness to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? / Did we not say to you in Egypt, ‘Leave us alone so that we may serve the Egyptians’? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness.” ...

Joshua 10:6-14
Then the men of Gibeon sent word to Joshua in the camp at Gilgal: “Do not abandon your servants. Come quickly and save us! Help us, because all the kings of the Amorites from the hill country have joined forces against us.” / So Joshua and his whole army, including all the mighty men of valor, came from Gilgal. / The LORD said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid of them, for I have delivered them into your hand. Not one of them shall stand against you.” ...

Psalm 18:3-6
I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies. / The cords of death encompassed me; the torrents of chaos overwhelmed me. / The cords of Sheol entangled me; the snares of death confronted me. ...

Psalm 34:17
The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles.

Psalm 50:15
Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor Me.”

Psalm 107:6
Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He delivered them from their distress.

Isaiah 41:10-13
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. / Behold, all who rage against you will be ashamed and disgraced; those who contend with you will be reduced to nothing and will perish. / You will seek them but will not find them. Those who wage war against you will come to nothing. ...

Isaiah 54:17
No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their vindication is from Me,” declares the LORD.

Matthew 6:13
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’

Matthew 26:41
“Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”

Mark 13:33
Be on your guard and stay alert! For you do not know when the appointed time will come.

Luke 21:36
So keep watch at all times, and pray that you may have the strength to escape all that is about to happen and to stand before the Son of Man.”

John 16:33
I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!”


Treasury of Scripture

And when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together to Mizpeh, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines.

afraid

1 Samuel 13:6
When the men of Israel saw that they were in a strait, (for the people were distressed,) then the people did hide themselves in caves, and in thickets, and in rocks, and in high places, and in pits.

1 Samuel 17:11
When Saul and all Israel heard those words of the Philistine, they were dismayed, and greatly afraid.

Exodus 14:10
And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and, behold, the Egyptians marched after them; and they were sore afraid: and the children of Israel cried out unto the LORD.

Jump to Previous
Afraid Assembled Attack Children Hear Heard Hearing Israel Israelites Lords Mizpah Mizpeh News Philistines Presence Princes Rulers Together
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Afraid Assembled Attack Children Hear Heard Hearing Israel Israelites Lords Mizpah Mizpeh News Philistines Presence Princes Rulers Together
1 Samuel 7
1. They of Kiriath Jearim bring the ark to Abinadab, and sanctify Eleazar as guard
2. After twenty years,
3. the Israelites, by Samuel's means, solemnly repent at Mizpeh
7. While Samuel prays and sacrifices,
10. the Lord thwarts the Philistines by thunder at Ebenezer
13. The Philistines are subdued
15. Samuel judges Israel














When the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah
The Philistines were a significant threat to Israel during this period, often engaging in battles with them. Mizpah was a significant location in Israelite history, often serving as a gathering place for the people. It was a site of national assembly and religious significance, where Samuel had called the Israelites to repent and seek the Lord. The Philistines, hearing of this assembly, likely perceived it as a potential threat or a sign of rebellion, prompting their military response.

their rulers marched up toward Israel
The Philistine rulers, or lords, were the leaders of the five major city-states: Ashdod, Ashkelon, Ekron, Gath, and Gaza. These rulers often coordinated military actions against Israel. The phrase "marched up" indicates a movement from the coastal plains where the Philistines resided, up into the hill country of Israel, suggesting a strategic military advance. This movement reflects the ongoing conflict and tension between the two nations.

And when the Israelites learned of this, they feared the Philistines
The Israelites' fear of the Philistines was rooted in their previous defeats and subjugation under Philistine control. Historically, the Philistines had superior military technology, including iron weapons and chariots, which contributed to Israel's fear. This fear also highlights Israel's vulnerability and their need for divine intervention, setting the stage for Samuel's leadership and God's deliverance. The Israelites' fear contrasts with their later faith and reliance on God, as seen in subsequent verses and chapters.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Philistines
A significant enemy of Israel during this period, known for their military strength and frequent conflicts with the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The people of God, who were in a period of repentance and seeking the Lord under the leadership of Samuel.

3. Mizpah
A gathering place for the Israelites, often used for significant assemblies and moments of national repentance or decision-making.

4. Philistine Leaders
The rulers or military commanders of the Philistines who decided to confront Israel upon hearing of their assembly.

5. Fear of the Israelites
The emotional response of the Israelites upon hearing of the Philistine approach, highlighting their vulnerability and need for divine intervention.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Repentance and Seeking God
The Israelites gathered at Mizpah in a spirit of repentance, which is crucial for experiencing God's deliverance.

Facing Fear with Faith
The Israelites' fear of the Philistines is a natural human response, but it also serves as a reminder to turn to God in times of fear.

God's Sovereignty in Our Battles
Despite the Israelites' fear, the account encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and power over their circumstances.

The Role of Leadership in Spiritual Renewal
Samuel's leadership in calling the people to Mizpah highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding people back to God.(7) The lords of the Philistines went up against Israel.--This was what might naturally have been expected. The sudden destruction of the Ph?nician idol shrines throughout the country, followed immediately by the summons of a vast popular assembly, held in so conspicuous a place as Mizpeh in Benjamin aroused at once the warlike nation which had so long kept Israel in servitude. The Philistine leaders promptly assemble a powerful force, and proceed to interrupt the Mizpeh gathering.

Verses 7, 8. - When the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines. This was perfectly natural, and implied no intention on the part of the Israelites not to fight it out. No dominant nation would permit a subject race to hold such a meeting as Samuel's at Mizpah without having recourse to arms; but the Philistines acted with such promptness and vigour as brought home to the assembled Israelites not merely the conviction that they would have to fight, but that they must do it at once, and with the combined forces of the enemy. In spite, nevertheless, of their fears, they determine to await the attack, and that this decision was taken in faith their own words prove. For they say, Cease not to cry unto Jehovah our God for us, that he will save us out of the hand of the Philistines. The words literally are, "Be not silent from crying," etc. Let him mediate for them with God, and they will await the onslaught of the foe.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
When the Philistines
פְלִשְׁתִּ֗ים (p̄ə·liš·tîm)
Noun - proper - masculine plural
Strong's 6430: Philistines -- inhabitants of Philistia

heard
וַיִּשְׁמְע֣וּ (way·yiš·mə·‘ū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 8085: To hear intelligently

that
כִּֽי־ (kî-)
Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

the Israelites
בְנֵֽי־ (ḇə·nê-)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1121: A son

had gathered
הִתְקַבְּצ֤וּ (hiṯ·qab·bə·ṣū)
Verb - Hitpael - Perfect - third person common plural
Strong's 6908: To gather, collect

at Mizpah,
הַמִּצְפָּ֔תָה (ham·miṣ·pā·ṯāh)
Article | Noun - proper - feminine singular | third person feminine singular
Strong's 4709: Mizpah -- the name of several places in Israel

their
פְלִשְׁתִּ֖ים (p̄ə·liš·tîm)
Noun - proper - masculine plural
Strong's 6430: Philistines -- inhabitants of Philistia

rulers
סַרְנֵֽי־ (sar·nê-)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 5633: An axle, a peer

marched up
וַיַּעֲל֥וּ (way·ya·‘ă·lū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 5927: To ascend, in, actively

toward
אֶל־ (’el-)
Preposition
Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to

Israel.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (yiś·rā·’êl)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3478: Israel -- 'God strives', another name of Jacob and his desc

And when the Israelites
בְּנֵ֣י (bə·nê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1121: A son

learned of this,
וַֽיִּשְׁמְעוּ֙ (way·yiš·mə·‘ū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 8085: To hear intelligently

they feared
וַיִּֽרְא֖וּ (way·yir·’ū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 3372: To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten

the Philistines
פְלִשְׁתִּֽים׃ (p̄ə·liš·tîm)
Noun - proper - masculine plural
Strong's 6430: Philistines -- inhabitants of Philistia


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OT History: 1 Samuel 7:7 When the Philistines heard that the children (1Sa iSam 1 Sam i sa)
1 Samuel 7:6
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