The anointing of Saul as the first king of Israel is a pivotal event in the history of the Israelites, marking the transition from the period of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 9-10, where the prophet Samuel, under God's direction, anoints Saul, a Benjamite, as king.

Background

The Israelites, desiring to be like other nations, requested a king to lead them (1 Samuel 8:5). Despite Samuel's warnings about the potential consequences of having a king, the people persisted in their demand. God instructed Samuel to heed their request, indicating that their desire for a king was a rejection of His direct rule over them (1 Samuel 8:7).

Saul's Selection

Saul, the son of Kish, was from the tribe of Benjamin. Described as "a choice and handsome young man," he stood taller than any of the people (1 Samuel 9:2). Saul's journey to kingship began when he was sent by his father to find their lost donkeys. This seemingly mundane task led him to the town of Zuph, where he sought the counsel of the prophet Samuel.

Divine Appointment

God had already revealed to Samuel that He would send a man from the land of Benjamin to be anointed as leader over His people (1 Samuel 9:16). When Samuel saw Saul, the LORD confirmed to him, "Here is the man of whom I spoke to you. He shall rule over My people" (1 Samuel 9:17).

The Anointing

Samuel invited Saul to a feast and later took him aside to privately anoint him. In a symbolic act, Samuel poured oil on Saul's head and declared, "Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?" (1 Samuel 10:1). This anointing signified God's choice and empowerment of Saul to lead Israel.

Signs of Confirmation

To confirm Saul's anointing, Samuel provided him with a series of signs that would occur as he returned home. These included meeting two men by Rachel's tomb, encountering three men going to Bethel, and joining a group of prophets at Gibeah, where the Spirit of the LORD would come powerfully upon him, and he would prophesy (1 Samuel 10:2-6).

Public Proclamation

After these signs were fulfilled, Samuel gathered the people at Mizpah to publicly proclaim Saul as king. Casting lots, the tribe of Benjamin was chosen, then the clan of Matri, and finally Saul, son of Kish, was selected. Despite initial hesitance and hiding among the baggage, Saul was brought forth, and Samuel declared, "Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people" (1 Samuel 10:24). The people responded with acclamation, "Long live the king!" (1 Samuel 10:24).

Significance

The anointing of Saul as king was a significant moment in Israel's history, representing both God's provision for His people and a shift in their governance. While Saul's reign began with promise, it also set the stage for the complexities and challenges of monarchy in Israel, as the people navigated their relationship with God and their earthly king.