Matthew Poole and continuators on 1 Samuel 14:37

37 And Saul asked counsel of God, Shall I go down after the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into the hand of Israel? but he answered him not that day .

Either, 1. Because he was displeased with Saul for his former neglect, v. 18, 19. where he began to ask advice of God, but was so Rude and Impious, as not to tarry for an Answer; and therefore it was but a just Retaliation, if when Saul did ask, God would not vouchsafe him an Answer. Or, 2. To manifest his dislike of the violation of Oaths. For although Ionathan might have a fair excuse from his invincible Ignorance, and urgent Necessity; and though Saul had done foolishly in making this Oath (which also God would this way discover,) yet, when once it was made, God would hereby teach them, that it should be observed; and that they should abstain, even from all appearance of the Breach of it.