In the biblical narrative, the anointing of Saul as the first king of Israel is a significant event marked by a series of divine signs. These signs serve to confirm God's choice of Saul and to assure him of his calling. The account is primarily found in 1 Samuel 10, where the prophet Samuel anoints Saul and provides him with specific signs that will occur as evidence of his divine appointment.

Anointing by Samuel

The process begins with Samuel, the last judge of Israel, anointing Saul privately. In 1 Samuel 10:1 , it is recorded: "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?'" This act of anointing with oil symbolizes the consecration of Saul for the role of king, setting him apart for God's purposes.

The Three Signs

Samuel provides Saul with three specific signs that will occur as he departs from Samuel, each designed to confirm his anointing:

1. The Encounter at Rachel's Tomb: The first sign involves meeting two men near Rachel's tomb in the territory of Benjamin at Zelzah. These men will inform Saul that the donkeys he had been searching for have been found, and that his father is now worried about him (1 Samuel 10:2). This sign reassures Saul of God's involvement in the mundane aspects of his life and the resolution of his immediate concerns.

2. The Meeting at the Oak of Tabor: The second sign involves meeting three men going up to God at Bethel. One will be carrying three young goats, another three loaves of bread, and another a skin of wine. They will greet Saul and offer him two loaves of bread, which he is to accept (1 Samuel 10:3-4). This sign signifies provision and fellowship, indicating God's sustenance and the support of the people.

3. The Prophetic Procession at Gibeah: The third sign is the most dramatic. Saul will encounter a group of prophets coming down from the high place at Gibeah, playing musical instruments and prophesying. The Spirit of the LORD will come powerfully upon Saul, and he will join them in prophesying, becoming a different person (1 Samuel 10:5-6). This transformation signifies the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, equipping Saul for his new role as king.

Fulfillment of the Signs

As Saul departs from Samuel, all the signs come to pass as foretold. In 1 Samuel 10:9-10 , it is noted: "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 group of prophets met him, and the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he prophesied along with them." The fulfillment of these signs serves as divine confirmation of Saul's anointing and his calling to lead Israel.

Significance in the Biblical Narrative

The signs given to Saul highlight the sovereignty of God in the establishment of Israel's monarchy. They demonstrate that Saul's kingship is not merely a human decision but a divine appointment. The transformation of Saul's heart and the empowerment by the Spirit underscore the necessity of divine enablement for leadership. These events set the stage for Saul's initial acceptance as king by the people and his subsequent challenges in fulfilling his role according to God's will.