The public selection of Saul as the first king of Israel is a pivotal event in the history of the Israelites, marking the transition from a theocratic system of judges to a monarchy. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 10:17-24 and is a significant moment in the narrative of Israel's desire for a king to lead them like the other nations.

Context and Background

The demand for a king arose during the time of Samuel, the last judge of Israel. The Israelites, facing threats from surrounding nations and dissatisfied with the corrupt leadership of Samuel's sons, requested a king to govern them. Despite Samuel's warnings about the potential consequences of monarchy, God instructed him to heed the people's request (1 Samuel 8:4-22).

The Anointing of Saul

Before the public selection, Saul, a Benjamite from the tribe of Benjamin, was privately anointed by Samuel as the chosen king. This anointing was a divine appointment, signifying God's selection of Saul to lead His people (1 Samuel 10:1). Saul was described as a handsome young man, taller than any of the people, which made him an appealing choice for king (1 Samuel 9:2).

The Public Selection Process

The public selection took place at Mizpah, where Samuel summoned the people of Israel. Samuel reminded the Israelites of God's past deliverance and their rejection of Him by demanding a king (1 Samuel 10:17-19). The selection process involved casting lots, a common biblical method for discerning God's will. The tribe of Benjamin was chosen, then the clan of Matri, and finally Saul, the son of Kish, was selected (1 Samuel 10:20-21).

Saul's Presentation and Acceptance

When Saul was chosen, he was initially found hiding among the baggage, indicating his humility or reluctance (1 Samuel 10:22). Once brought forward, his impressive stature was evident to all, and Samuel declared, "Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people." The people responded with acclamation, shouting, "Long live the king!" (1 Samuel 10:24).

Significance

The public selection of Saul as king was a momentous event that fulfilled the Israelites' desire for a monarch. It also demonstrated God's sovereignty in choosing a leader for His people, despite their insistence on having a king. This event set the stage for the establishment of the monarchy in Israel, with Saul's reign marking the beginning of a new era in the nation's history. The selection process, involving divine guidance through casting lots, underscored the belief that God remained in control, even as Israel transitioned to a human monarchy.