I Samuel 10

Hook

Do you remember that first night at camp? The counselors are singing, the fire is crackling, and you’re looking around, thinking, “Wait, is this really happening? Do I belong in this circle?” It’s that moment of "imposter syndrome" meets "holy transformation." In the camp song “Hineh Ma Tov,” we sing about the goodness of brothers and sisters dwelling together, but in I Samuel 10, we meet a guy named Saul who is about to find out that his "circle" is getting a lot bigger—and a lot more intense—than he ever imagined. He went out looking for lost donkeys and ended up finding a kingdom. Talk about an unexpected camp-out!

Context

• The Landscape of Change: Saul is currently walking through the hills of Benjamin—a rugged, limestone-streaked landscape where every valley and terebinth tree feels like a secret waiting to be told.
• The Anointing: Samuel, the aging prophet, acts as the ultimate "senior counselor," guiding Saul through a series of "signs" to prove that his sudden elevation isn't just a fluke, but a divine nudge.
• The "Different Heart": Saul is told he will become a "different person"—a classic, albeit more intense, version of that moment we all had at camp where we shed our "home self" and stepped into our "camp self."

Text Snapshot

“Samuel took a flask of oil and poured some on Saul’s head... The spirit of God will grip you, and you will speak in ecstasy along with them; you will become a different person. And once these signs have happened to you, act when the occasion arises, for God is with you.” — I Samuel 10:1-7

Close Reading

Insight 1: The Anatomy of a Blessing

Our commentators, like the Malbim, dig deep into why Samuel kisses Saul after pouring the oil. The Malbim explains that the oil represents "heroic power," but the kiss—that’s where the magic happens. He describes it as “hitdabkut rucha berucha” (the sticking/joining of spirit to spirit).

In our own lives, how often do we receive "anointing"? Maybe it’s a promotion at work, a new role in our community, or becoming a parent. We often feel like Saul—just looking for our "donkeys" (our daily chores, our lost keys, our basic survival). But the text suggests that being chosen isn't just about the external status; it’s about the connection to the people around us. When we lean into our roles, we aren't just doing a job; we are allowing our spirit to touch the spirit of our community. The "kiss" is the reminder that we aren't doing this alone. We are being validated by those who came before us, just as Samuel validated Saul.

Insight 2: Hiding Among the Baggage

Fast forward to the big reveal. The tribes are gathered, the lot is cast, and everyone is waiting for the new King to step forward. But where is Saul? He’s hiding in the baggage! I Samuel 10:22.

This is the most relatable moment in the entire book. You’ve been told you’re destined for greatness, you’ve felt that "spirit of God" surge, but when it’s time to actually stand up and be the leader, you want to crawl into a suitcase.

The Radak notes that Saul’s anointing was done with a "flask" (pach) rather than a "horn" (keren), suggesting a temporary or fragile start. Saul’s hesitation isn't just cowardice; it’s the realization that stepping into your true self is terrifying. We all have a "baggage" phase—that moment right before we lead a meeting, host a Shabbat dinner, or speak up for what’s right, where we feel like we’re better off staying small. But the text doesn't leave him there. He is dragged out, and he stands a head taller than the rest. The lesson for us? You don't have to feel like a king or queen to be one. You just have to be willing to be found among the baggage and stand up when your name is called.

Micro-Ritual

To bring this "different heart" into your week, try a "Signs of the Week" check-in during your Friday night dinner.

Saul was given three specific "signs" to watch for to prove God was with him. This week, ask everyone at the table: "What was one 'sign' this week that you were exactly where you needed to be?"

It doesn't have to be a burning bush! It could be a conversation that felt right, a task that went smoother than expected, or a moment of clarity.

Singing Suggestion: Before you start, hum a simple, low-register niggun (like a slow Carlebach-style melody) to settle the room. It’s a way to "anoint" the space, clearing away the "baggage" of the week so you can hear each other’s stories.

Chevruta Mini

1. The Donkeys vs. The Kingdom: Saul went looking for donkeys and found a crown. What is a "donkey" in your life right now—a small, mundane worry—that might actually be leading you toward a much larger purpose?
2. The Baggage: When have you felt "too small" for a role you were given? How did you eventually find the courage to step out from behind the "baggage" and take your place?

Takeaway

You are more than the chores you’re checking off your list. Like Saul, you are constantly being invited to "become a different person"—to grow into the potential that others see in you, even when you’re still hiding in the baggage. Trust the signs, lean into the community, and stand tall. You’re exactly where you’re meant to be.