Context and Background

Saul, the first king of Israel, was chosen by God to lead His people during a tumultuous period in their history. His anointing and subsequent actions are pivotal in understanding the transition from the period of the Judges to the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. Saul's blessing and departure are significant events that mark the beginning of his reign and his initial obedience to God's commands through the prophet Samuel.

Biblical Account

The account of Saul's blessing and departure is primarily found in 1 Samuel 9 and 10. Saul, a Benjamite, is introduced as a young man of impressive stature and appearance, chosen by God to be king over Israel. The narrative begins with Saul's search for his father's lost donkeys, which leads him to the prophet Samuel.

In 1 Samuel 9:27, Samuel instructs Saul to send his servant ahead so that he may reveal God's message to him privately. This moment sets the stage for Saul's anointing and blessing. Samuel takes a flask of oil and anoints Saul's head, signifying God's choice and blessing upon him as the leader of His people (1 Samuel 10:1): "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?'"

The Blessing

The blessing bestowed upon Saul by Samuel is both prophetic and instructive. Samuel provides Saul with specific signs that will confirm his anointing and assure him of God's presence and guidance. These signs include encounters with two men near Rachel's tomb, three men at the great tree of Tabor, and a group of prophets at Gibeah (1 Samuel 10:2-5). Each encounter is designed to affirm Saul's divine appointment and to prepare him for the responsibilities of kingship.

Samuel's blessing also includes a charge to wait for him at Gilgal, where further instructions will be given (1 Samuel 10:8): "And you shall go down before me to Gilgal, and behold, I will come down to you to offer burnt offerings and to sacrifice peace offerings. You must wait seven days until I come to you and show you what you are to do."

Departure and Transformation

Following the blessing, Saul departs from Samuel, and as he turns to leave, God transforms his heart, equipping him for the role ahead (1 Samuel 10:9): "As Saul turned to leave Samuel, God changed Saul’s heart, and all the signs came to pass that day." This transformation is a divine act, indicating that Saul's kingship is not merely a human appointment but a divinely orchestrated mission.

Saul's encounter with the prophets and his subsequent prophesying (1 Samuel 10:10-11) further confirm his calling and the Spirit of the Lord's empowerment. The people who knew Saul are astonished, asking, "Is Saul also among the prophets?" This rhetorical question underscores the dramatic change in Saul's life and the divine endorsement of his new role.

Significance

Saul's blessing and departure are foundational to understanding his initial relationship with God and the prophetic guidance he receives through Samuel. This event highlights the importance of divine selection and empowerment in leadership, as well as the necessity of obedience to God's instructions. Saul's anointing serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty in choosing leaders and the potential for transformation when one is called to serve His purposes.