The encounter between the prophet Samuel and Saul, the future king of Israel, is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, marking the transition from the period of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 9-10.

Context and Background

The Israelites, desiring to be like other nations, demanded a king to lead them (1 Samuel 8:5). Despite Samuel's warnings about the potential consequences of having a king, God instructed Samuel to heed the people's request. This set the stage for Saul's anointing as the first king of Israel.

The Search for Lost Donkeys

The narrative begins with Saul, the son of Kish, a wealthy Benjamite, searching for his father's lost donkeys. Accompanied by a servant, Saul travels through the hill country of Ephraim and the land of Benjamin without success (1 Samuel 9:3-4). As they approach the land of Zuph, Saul considers returning home, but his servant suggests consulting the "seer," Samuel, who is in the nearby town (1 Samuel 9:6).

Divine Appointment

Unbeknownst to Saul, God had already revealed to Samuel that He would send a man from the land of Benjamin to be anointed as leader over Israel (1 Samuel 9:15-16). This divine appointment underscores God's sovereignty and His role in orchestrating the events leading to Saul's kingship.

The Meeting

As Saul and his servant enter the town, they encounter young women drawing water, who direct them to Samuel. Upon meeting Samuel, Saul is unaware of the prophet's identity. Samuel, however, recognizes Saul as the chosen one and invites him to a sacrificial feast (1 Samuel 9:18-19).

The Anointing of Saul

The following day, Samuel privately anoints Saul as king, pouring oil on his head and declaring, "Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?" (1 Samuel 10:1). Samuel provides Saul with specific signs to confirm his anointing, including encounters with two men near Rachel's tomb, three men at the oak of Tabor, and a group of prophets at Gibeah (1 Samuel 10:2-5).

The Spirit of the LORD

As Saul turns to leave Samuel, God changes his heart, and all the signs Samuel predicted come to pass. The Spirit of the LORD comes powerfully upon Saul, and he joins the prophets in prophesying (1 Samuel 10:9-10). This transformation signifies God's empowerment of Saul for his new role as king.

Public Selection

Samuel later gathers the people at Mizpah to publicly select the king. Through the casting of lots, Saul is chosen, but he is initially found hiding among the baggage, displaying his humility and reluctance (1 Samuel 10:20-22). When Saul is presented to the people, he stands head and shoulders above the rest, and the people shout, "Long live the king!" (1 Samuel 10:24).

Significance

The meeting between Samuel and Saul is significant for several reasons. It highlights God's providence in guiding Israel's history, the role of prophetic authority in the anointing of kings, and the beginning of Saul's complex and ultimately tragic reign. This encounter sets the stage for the unfolding narrative of Israel's monarchy and the eventual rise of David, a man after God's own heart.