The concept of the "Renewal of Kingship" in the Bible refers to the reaffirmation or reestablishment of a king's rule, often accompanied by a covenant renewal or a public ceremony. This theme is significant in the biblical narrative as it underscores the divine sanction and legitimacy of a ruler's authority, as well as the people's commitment to the king and, by extension, to God.

Biblical Instances:

1. Saul's Kingship at Gilgal:
The first instance of the renewal of kingship is found in the account of Saul, Israel's first king. After Saul's initial anointing by the prophet Samuel, there was a need to reaffirm his kingship publicly. In 1 Samuel 11:14-15, Samuel calls the people to Gilgal to renew the kingdom. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Then Samuel said to the people, 'Come, let us go to Gilgal and renew the kingship there.' So all the people went to Gilgal and confirmed Saul as king in the presence of the LORD. There they sacrificed peace offerings before the LORD, and Saul and all the Israelites rejoiced greatly." This event solidified Saul's rule and unified the nation under his leadership.

2. David's Kingship:
David's kingship was marked by multiple affirmations. Initially anointed by Samuel in Bethlehem (1 Samuel 16:13), David's kingship was later confirmed by the tribe of Judah (2 Samuel 2:4) and subsequently by all Israel (2 Samuel 5:3). The renewal of David's kingship is particularly significant after the rebellion of Absalom. In 2 Samuel 19:11-14, David seeks to restore his rule by appealing to the elders of Judah, emphasizing reconciliation and unity. This renewal underscores the enduring covenant between David and God, as well as the people's loyalty to their divinely chosen king.

3. Joash's Kingship:
The renewal of kingship is also evident in the account of Joash, who was hidden from the murderous intent of Athaliah and later revealed and crowned as king. In 2 Kings 11:17-20, Jehoiada the priest makes a covenant between the LORD, the king, and the people, signifying a renewal of the kingship and a return to the worship of Yahweh. The Berean Standard Bible records: "Then Jehoiada made a covenant between the LORD and the king and people that they would be the LORD’s people, and also between the king and the people."

4. Josiah's Reforms:
King Josiah's reign is another example where the renewal of kingship is closely tied to covenant renewal. Upon discovering the Book of the Law, Josiah initiates a religious reform and renews the covenant in the presence of the people. 2 Kings 23:3 states: "So the king stood by the pillar and made a covenant before the LORD to follow the LORD and to keep His commandments, decrees, and statutes with all his heart and all his soul, to carry out the words of this covenant that were written in this book. And all the people entered into the covenant."

Theological Significance:

The renewal of kingship in the biblical narrative serves several theological purposes. It emphasizes the divine right and responsibility of the king to lead the people in accordance with God's laws. It also highlights the importance of covenant fidelity, both on the part of the king and the people. The renewal ceremonies often involve sacrifices and public declarations, reinforcing the sacred nature of the king's authority and the communal commitment to God's covenant.

Furthermore, these renewals often occur during times of crisis or transition, serving as a means of restoring order and unity within the nation. They remind the people of their identity as God's chosen people and their duty to uphold His commandments under the leadership of a divinely appointed king.