How did Samuel lead Israel and anoint its first kings?

Background and Early Life of Samuel

Samuel, born to Elkanah and Hannah, entered a pivotal time in Israel’s history. His mother, Hannah, dedicated him to serve at the tabernacle in Shiloh under Eli the priest (1 Samuel 1:24–28). Even in his youth, Samuel received a supernatural call from the LORD:

“Then the LORD called Samuel, and he answered, ‘Here I am.’…” (1 Samuel 3:4).

This calling, repeated three times, established Samuel as a prophet who would speak on God’s behalf (1 Samuel 3:9–11). Archaeological excavations at Shiloh have revealed layers of occupation that date back to the time of the judges, supporting the historical context for where young Samuel served. Within the biblical timeline, Samuel’s lifetime is often placed around the 11th century BC, concluding the era of the judges and transitioning into the monarchy.

Samuel as Prophet and Judge

As Samuel grew, Scripture states that none of his words fell to the ground and that all Israel recognized him as a faithful prophet (1 Samuel 3:19–20). Samuel was not only a prophet but also served as the last of Israel’s judges. He held both spiritual and civil authority, guiding the nation in covenant faithfulness to the LORD.

After the defeat of Israel’s enemies at Mizpah (1 Samuel 7), Samuel erected a stone called Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the LORD has helped us” (1 Samuel 7:12). This served as a memorial of divine deliverance. He continued traveling on a circuit to judge Israel, consolidating spiritual worship and civil governance (1 Samuel 7:15–17).

Call for a King

In Samuel’s old age, Israel began requesting a king to govern them, desiring to be like the surrounding nations (1 Samuel 8:5). Samuel was displeased, but the Lord instructed him, “Listen to the voice of the people… for it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected Me as their king” (1 Samuel 8:7).

This momentous event signaled the shift from a theocracy (with judges acting under divine authority) to a monarchy. Samuel warned Israel that a king would draft their sons for war, collect taxes, and demand burdensome service (1 Samuel 8:11–18). Still, the people insisted, and the LORD granted their request.

The Anointing of Saul

Following God’s direction, Samuel met Saul, a tall, impressive man from the tribe of Benjamin (1 Samuel 9:17–21). Samuel assured him of his divinely ordained role. Scripture says:

“Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, ‘Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?’” (1 Samuel 10:1).

With that anointing, Saul became Israel’s first king. Samuel confirmed God’s involvement through signs, including prophetic activity that came upon Saul (1 Samuel 10:9–13). Saul’s early reign was marked by military victories and a measure of humility. Yet his disobedience in failing to carry out God’s commands (for instance, sparing King Agag in 1 Samuel 15) prompted the Lord to reject him as king.

The Anointing of David

After Saul’s repeated failures, the LORD instructed Samuel to go to Bethlehem, to the house of Jesse. While examining Jesse’s sons, Samuel was reminded not to judge by outward appearance but that “the LORD sees the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). Passing over the older brothers, Samuel anointed the youngest, David:

“So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward” (1 Samuel 16:13).

By anointing David, Samuel demonstrated God’s sovereign choice of a ruler who would lead Israel faithfully. David eventually unified the tribes and became the standard by which future kings were measured. Archaeological evidence (such as the Tel Dan Stele) attests to the existence of a “House of David,” lending historical weight to this biblical record.

Summary and Legacy

Samuel’s leadership in Israel stands at the convergence of the judges, prophets, and monarchs. He served faithfully as an intermediary between God and His people. He established the monarchy by anointing Saul and later David, thus defining the course of the nation for generations. Throughout his life, Samuel emphasized obedience to God above all:

“Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obedience to the voice of the LORD? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice…” (1 Samuel 15:22).

His ministry is immortalized in Scripture as a model of faithfulness, prophetic authority, and righteous judgment. Samuel’s unwavering dedication to God’s will and his role in establishing Israel’s first kings remain essential to understanding Israel’s transition from tribal confederation to united kingdom. His life illustrates that authentic leadership is grounded in obedience, worship, and a reverence for God’s sovereignty.