The anointing of David by the prophet Samuel is a pivotal event in the biblical narrative, marking the divine selection of David as the future king of Israel. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 16:1-13 and serves as a significant turning point in the history of Israel, as it sets the stage for the rise of David, a man after God's own heart, to the throne.

Context and Background

The backdrop to this event is the rejection of Saul as king by God due to his disobedience. In 1 Samuel 15, Saul fails to fully carry out God's command to destroy the Amalekites and their possessions, leading to God's declaration that Saul's kingdom will not endure. The prophet Samuel, who had anointed Saul as king, is deeply grieved by Saul's failure and God's subsequent rejection of him.

Divine Instruction

In 1 Samuel 16:1, the LORD speaks to Samuel, instructing him to stop mourning for Saul and to go to Bethlehem to anoint a new king from among the sons of Jesse. The LORD says, "Fill your horn with oil and go. I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem, for I have chosen for Myself a king among his sons" .

Samuel's Obedience and Fear

Samuel expresses concern for his safety, fearing that Saul will kill him if he learns of his mission. The LORD provides a solution, instructing Samuel to take a heifer and say he has come to sacrifice to the LORD. This allows Samuel to carry out God's command under the guise of a religious ceremony.

The Selection of David

Upon arriving in Bethlehem, Samuel invites Jesse and his sons to the sacrifice. As Jesse's sons are presented to Samuel, the LORD makes it clear that His choice is not based on outward appearance or stature. When Samuel sees Eliab, Jesse's eldest son, he thinks he must be the chosen one. However, the LORD tells Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7).

Jesse presents seven of his sons to Samuel, but the LORD does not choose any of them. Samuel then asks if there are any more sons, and Jesse mentions the youngest, David, who is tending the sheep. Samuel insists on waiting for David to be brought before proceeding.

David's Anointing

When David arrives, the LORD confirms to Samuel that David is His chosen one. "Then the LORD said, 'Rise and anoint him, for he is the one'" (1 Samuel 16:12). Samuel anoints David in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD comes powerfully upon David from that day forward.

Significance

The anointing of David signifies God's sovereign choice and His ability to see beyond human limitations. David, though the youngest and seemingly least significant of his brothers, is chosen because of his heart and character. This event foreshadows David's future role as a king who will lead Israel with a heart aligned with God's purposes.

The anointing also marks the beginning of a new chapter in Israel's history, as David's reign will eventually bring about the unification of the tribes and establish Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of the nation. David's lineage will ultimately lead to the birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, fulfilling God's covenant promises to His people.