The anointing of Saul as the first king of Israel is a significant event in the history of the Israelites, marking the transition from a theocratic system of judges to a monarchy. This event is primarily recorded in the First Book of Samuel, chapters 9 and 10, and it highlights themes of divine selection, obedience, and the role of prophecy in Israel's governance.

Background

The demand for a king arose from the Israelites' desire to be like other nations and have a centralized leadership to lead them in battle and govern them (1 Samuel 8:5). Despite the prophet Samuel's warnings about the potential pitfalls of monarchy, God instructed Samuel to heed the people's request, indicating His sovereign plan to establish a monarchy in Israel (1 Samuel 8:7-9).

Divine Selection of Saul

Saul, the son of Kish from the tribe of Benjamin, was chosen by God to be the first king. Described as a handsome and tall young man, Saul stood out among the Israelites (1 Samuel 9:2). His selection was not based on his personal ambition or political maneuvering but on God's sovereign choice.

The Anointing by Samuel

In 1 Samuel 9, Saul's journey to find his father's lost donkeys leads him to the prophet Samuel. God had already revealed to Samuel that Saul would be the one to lead His people. In 1 Samuel 10:1, Samuel anoints Saul with oil, a symbolic act signifying Saul's consecration and empowerment by the Holy Spirit for the role of king: "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?'" .

Signs of Confirmation

To confirm Saul's anointing, Samuel provides him with a series of signs that would occur as he returns home. These signs include 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). These events transpire as foretold, affirming God's choice and empowering Saul for his new role.

Public Proclamation

Following the private anointing, Saul is publicly proclaimed king at Mizpah. Samuel gathers the people and, through the casting of lots, Saul is chosen before the assembly (1 Samuel 10:20-24). Despite initial reluctance and hiding among the baggage, Saul is brought forth, and Samuel declares, "Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people." And the people shout, "Long live the king!" (1 Samuel 10:24).

Significance

The anointing of Saul as king represents a pivotal moment in Israel's history, illustrating the tension between human desires and divine will. It underscores the importance of divine guidance and the role of prophetic authority in the establishment of leadership. Saul's anointing also sets the stage for the complex narrative of his reign, characterized by initial success, subsequent disobedience, and eventual rejection by God in favor of David, a man after God's own heart.