The acceptance 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 the First Book of Samuel, chapters 8 through 12, and it reflects the Israelites' desire to be like other nations, having a centralized human authority to lead them.

Background and Request for a King

The narrative begins with the aging of Samuel, the last judge of Israel, whose sons did not follow his righteous ways (1 Samuel 8:1-3). The elders of Israel, concerned about the future leadership, approached Samuel at Ramah with a request: "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). This request displeased Samuel, and he prayed to the LORD for guidance.

God instructed Samuel to heed the people's request, though it was seen as a rejection of God's kingship over Israel (1 Samuel 8:7). The LORD told Samuel to warn the people 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 these warnings, the people insisted, saying, "No, we must have a king over us. Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to judge us, to go out before us, and to fight our battles" (1 Samuel 8:19-20).

The Anointing of Saul

In response to the people's demand, God directed Samuel to anoint Saul, a Benjamite, as king. Saul was described as "an impressive young man without equal among the Israelites—a head taller than any of the people" (1 Samuel 9:2). Samuel privately anointed Saul as king, pouring oil on his head and declaring, "Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?" (1 Samuel 10:1).

Public Selection and Acceptance

The public selection of Saul took place at Mizpah, where Samuel gathered the people of Israel. Through the casting of lots, the tribe of Benjamin was chosen, then the clan of Matri, and finally Saul, son of Kish, was selected (1 Samuel 10:20-21). Initially, Saul was found hiding among the baggage, but when he stood among the people, he was visibly taller than any of them. Samuel proclaimed, "Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people." And the people shouted, "Long live the king!" (1 Samuel 10:24).

Confirmation of Saul's Kingship

Saul's kingship was further solidified through his military leadership. When the Ammonites besieged Jabesh-gilead, Saul rallied the Israelites and led a successful campaign to rescue the city (1 Samuel 11:1-11). This victory inspired confidence and unity among the people, and they gathered at Gilgal to renew the kingdom. There, they made Saul king in the presence of the LORD, offering sacrifices and rejoicing greatly (1 Samuel 11:14-15).

Samuel's Farewell Address

Following Saul's confirmation as king, Samuel delivered a farewell address at Gilgal, reminding the people of God's faithfulness and their obligation to obey His commandments. He warned them of the consequences of disobedience, stating, "If you fear the LORD and serve Him and obey His voice, and if you do not rebel against the command of the LORD, then both you and the king who reigns over you will follow the LORD your God" (1 Samuel 12:14). Samuel's address underscored the conditional nature of the monarchy, dependent on the people's and the king's adherence to God's covenant.

The acceptance of Saul as king was a pivotal moment in Israel's history, reflecting both the people's desire for human leadership and the divine orchestration of Israel's monarchy.