The concept of reigning over Israel is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, beginning with the establishment of a monarchy and continuing through the divided kingdoms. The reign over Israel is a central theme in the Old Testament, reflecting God's covenant with His people and His sovereign plan for leadership.

The Establishment of the Monarchy

The desire for a king in Israel arose during the time of the prophet Samuel. The Israelites, seeking to be like other nations, requested a king to lead them. This request is recorded in 1 Samuel 8:5, where the elders of Israel said to Samuel, "Behold, you are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint a king to judge us like all the other nations." Despite God's warning about the potential consequences of having a king, He granted their request, instructing Samuel to anoint Saul as the first king of Israel (1 Samuel 9:16-17).

Saul's Reign

Saul's reign marked the beginning of the monarchy in Israel. Initially, Saul was a successful military leader, but his disobedience to God's commands led to his downfall. In 1 Samuel 15:26, Samuel tells Saul, "I will not return with you, because you have rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD has rejected you as king over Israel." Saul's reign ended in tragedy, paving the way for David's ascension.

David's Reign

David, a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14), was anointed by Samuel to succeed Saul. His reign is often considered the golden age of Israel. David united the tribes, established Jerusalem as the capital, and brought the Ark of the Covenant to the city, signifying God's presence among His people. In 2 Samuel 7:16, God made a covenant with David, promising, "Your house and kingdom will endure forever before Me; your throne will be established forever."

Solomon's Reign

Solomon, David's son, succeeded him and is renowned for his wisdom and the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. His reign was marked by peace and prosperity, but his later years were marred by idolatry and political alliances that led Israel away from God. 1 Kings 11:11 records God's response: "Since you have not kept My covenant and My statutes, which I commanded you, I will surely tear the kingdom away from you and give it to your servant."

The Divided Kingdom

After Solomon's death, the kingdom was divided into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. This division was a result of Solomon's disobedience and the people's rebellion. The northern kingdom, led by Jeroboam, quickly fell into idolatry, while the southern kingdom, under Rehoboam, maintained a semblance of Davidic rule. The divided monarchy is characterized by a series of kings, many of whom did evil in the sight of the Lord, leading to the eventual exile of both kingdoms.

Prophetic Voices and the Promise of a Future King

Throughout the reigns of the kings, prophets played a crucial role in calling Israel back to faithfulness. Prophets like Elijah, Elisha, Isaiah, and Jeremiah warned of judgment but also spoke of hope and restoration. The promise of a future king, a Messiah from the line of David, is a recurring theme. Isaiah 9:7 prophesies, "Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish and sustain it with justice and righteousness from that time and forevermore."

Conclusion

The reign over Israel, from its establishment to the divided kingdom, reflects the complexities of human leadership under divine sovereignty. It underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands and the hope of a future, righteous reign through the promised Messiah.