1 Samuel 11:7

he took a yoke of oxen Those doubtless with which he had just been ploughing (1 Samuel 11:5).

and sentthem] - Them," i.e. the pieces, is rightly supplied. Symbolical acts are often more eloquent than any words. Cp. Judges 19:29; 1 Kings 11:30; 1Ki 22:11; 2 Kings 13:18. We may compare the Fiery Cross which used to be sent round as the signal for the gathering of the Highland clans in Scotland. It was "scathed with flame," and "quenched in blood" as an emblem of the fire and sword awaiting all who should neglect its summons. See The Lady of the Lake, Canto III., Stanzas 8 11.

by the hands of messengers By the hand of the Messengers, viz. those who had come from Jabesh.

after Saul and after Samuel Saul strengthens himself in his new office by an appeal to the time-honoured name and prophetic authority of Samuel.

the fear of the Lord&c. Awe inspired by Jehovah supported the authority of His King and His Prophet; the people left their homes and came out to the rendezvous as one man.