The selection of Saul as the first king of Israel marks a significant transition in the history of the Israelite nation, moving from a theocratic system of judges to a monarchy. This event is primarily recorded in 1 Samuel 8-10, with additional insights found in subsequent chapters.

Background and Demand for a King

The demand for a king arose during the time of the prophet Samuel, who was the last of the judges. As Samuel grew old, he appointed his sons as judges over Israel, but they were corrupt and did not follow his ways. The elders of Israel, concerned about the future leadership and desiring to be like other nations, approached Samuel at Ramah and said, "Behold, you are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint a king to judge us like all the other nations" (1 Samuel 8:5).

Samuel was displeased with their request, and he prayed to the LORD. God instructed Samuel to heed the people's demand, saying, "It is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected Me as their king" (1 Samuel 8:7). God warned the Israelites through Samuel about the potential consequences of having a king, including the loss of personal freedoms and the imposition of taxes and military service (1 Samuel 8:10-18). Despite the warnings, the people insisted, and God granted their request.

The Anointing of Saul

Saul, the son of Kish from the tribe of Benjamin, was chosen by God to be the first king of Israel. Described as "an impressive young man without equal among the Israelites—a head taller than any of the people" (1 Samuel 9:2), Saul's physical stature and appearance made him an ideal candidate in the eyes of the people.

The divine selection of Saul is narrated in 1 Samuel 9-10. Saul was searching for his father's lost donkeys when he encountered Samuel. God had revealed to Samuel the previous day that He would send a man from the land of Benjamin to be anointed as leader over His people (1 Samuel 9:15-16). When Samuel met Saul, the LORD confirmed, "Here is the man of whom I spoke to you. He shall rule over My people" (1 Samuel 9:17).

Samuel anointed Saul privately by pouring oil on his head and kissing him, saying, "Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?" (1 Samuel 10:1). Samuel provided Saul with several signs to confirm his anointing, which all came to pass, demonstrating God's hand in the selection (1 Samuel 10:2-9).

Public Selection and Acceptance

Following the private anointing, Samuel called the people together at Mizpah to publicly select the king. Through the casting of lots, the tribe of Benjamin was chosen, then the clan of Matri, and finally Saul, the son of Kish (1 Samuel 10:20-21). When Saul was revealed, he was initially hiding among the baggage, but when he stood among the people, he was visibly taller than any of them. Samuel declared, "Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people" (1 Samuel 10:24). The people responded with acclamation, "Long live the king!" (1 Samuel 10:24).

Significance and Theological Implications

The selection of Saul as king was a pivotal moment in Israel's history, reflecting both the people's desire to conform to the political structures of surrounding nations and God's sovereign plan. While the monarchy was established at the people's insistence, it was ultimately under God's providential guidance. Saul's anointing signified God's choice and the beginning of a new era, yet it also foreshadowed the complexities and challenges of human kingship in contrast to divine rule.

The narrative of Saul's selection serves as a reminder of the tension between human desires and divine will, as well as the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's commands. Saul's reign would later illustrate the consequences of deviating from God's instructions, setting the stage for the rise of David, a man after God's own heart.