Background and Context:
Saul, the first king of Israel, was anointed by the prophet Samuel as described in 1 Samuel 9-10. Saul's anointing marked a significant transition in Israel's history from a theocracy led by judges to a monarchy. Saul, a Benjamite from the town of Gibeah, was chosen by God to lead His people during a time of external threats and internal disunity.

Biblical Account:
The account of Saul's return to Gibeah is found in 1 Samuel 10. After being anointed by Samuel, Saul is given several signs to confirm his calling. These signs include meeting two men by Rachel's tomb, encountering three men going up to Bethel, and joining a group of prophets at Gibeah. Each of these events unfolds as Samuel had foretold, affirming God's choice of Saul as king.

1 Samuel 10:9-10 states, "As Saul turned to leave Samuel, God changed Saul’s heart, and all the signs came to pass that day. When Saul and his servant arrived at Gibeah, a procession of prophets met him; the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he prophesied along with them."

Significance of Gibeah:
Gibeah, Saul's hometown, plays a crucial role in his early reign. It serves as the initial seat of his kingship and a symbol of his humble beginnings. The transformation of Saul's heart and his prophesying at Gibeah signify the divine empowerment necessary for his role as king. This event also marks the beginning of Saul's public recognition as Israel's leader.

Theological Implications:
Saul's return to Gibeah and the accompanying signs underscore the sovereignty of God in the establishment of Israel's monarchy. Despite Saul's initial reluctance and the people's demand for a king, God orchestrates the events leading to Saul's anointing and confirmation. The Spirit of God coming upon Saul highlights the necessity of divine enablement for leadership, a theme that recurs throughout the biblical narrative.

Historical and Cultural Context:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, the anointing of a king was a significant religious and political act. Saul's anointing by Samuel, a respected prophet, lent divine legitimacy to his kingship. Gibeah, located in the tribal territory of Benjamin, was strategically positioned near the central highlands, making it a suitable location for Saul's initial rule.

Key Themes:
· Divine Sovereignty: God's control over the selection and confirmation of Saul as king.
· Prophetic Confirmation: The role of prophecy in validating Saul's anointing.
· Spiritual Empowerment: The necessity of the Holy Spirit's empowerment for effective leadership.
· Humble Beginnings: Saul's rise from a modest background to kingship, emphasizing God's ability to elevate individuals according to His purposes.

Related Biblical References:
· 1 Samuel 9-10: The anointing and confirmation of Saul as king.
· 1 Samuel 11: Saul's leadership in delivering Jabesh-gilead, further establishing his kingship.
· Judges 19-21: Previous events in Gibeah, providing historical context for Saul's hometown.

Saul's return to Gibeah marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, as it signifies the beginning of the monarchy and the unfolding of God's plan for His people through the leadership of a king.