I Samuel 10:24-12:21

Shalom and welcome! So glad you're here to explore some of our ancient texts.

Hook

Ever feel like you're trying to find your place, or maybe even feeling a bit lost in the shuffle? Perhaps you've been in a situation where everyone else seems to know what's going on, and you're just trying to figure out your next step. Or maybe you've seen someone step into a leadership role, and you've wondered, "How did they get there? And what does it even mean to lead?" We've all had those moments, right? It's like standing in a crowded room, and suddenly, all eyes are on someone, and you're thinking, "Wait, what just happened?" This text we're looking at today dives headfirst into a pivotal moment like that. It's about a regular guy named Saul who gets a surprise promotion, and the whole nation is trying to get their heads around it. It’s a story about leadership, about divine calling, and about what happens when we're chosen for something bigger than we ever imagined. It’s a little messy, a little confusing, and a whole lot human. So, if you’ve ever felt a little out of the loop, or wondered about the path of a leader, or just been curious about how people end up in the spotlight, you've come to the right place. We're going to unpack this together, piece by piece, and see what gems of wisdom we can find for our own lives.

Context

Let's set the scene for this incredible story! Imagine we're time-traveling back, way back, to ancient Israel.

• Who: We're primarily talking about a prophet named Samuel, who is a hugely important figure, and a man named Saul, who is about to become Israel's very first king. There are also the people of Israel, the tribes, and various other characters who pop up.
• When: This is happening in what we call the "Period of the Judges," a time when Israel didn't have a king. They were a collection of tribes, and judges (like Samuel) would lead them in times of crisis. This text marks the very beginning of them asking for and getting a king. It's a massive shift in their history!
• Where: The action jumps around a bit, but key places include Gilgal, Mizpah, and Gibeah. These are significant locations in ancient Israel, often used for religious gatherings and important national events. Think of them as ancient community centers or sacred meeting spots.
• Key Term: "Anointed One" (Messiah) This is a big one! In Hebrew, it’s mashiach. When someone was "anointed," it meant they were chosen and set apart for a special purpose by God, often for leadership or service. They would literally pour oil on their head as a symbol. For Saul, this marked him as God’s chosen king. It’s a term that later takes on even deeper meaning, but right now, it’s about being officially designated.

So, picture this: a land without a king, a people looking for direction, and a prophet who is about to make a life-altering announcement for one man and the entire nation. It’s a moment of transition, a turning point, and the stakes couldn't be higher.

Text Snapshot

Here’s a little taste of what’s happening in this section of I Samuel. It’s like peeking through a window into the past:

Samuel took a flask of oil and poured some on Saul’s head and kissed him, and said, “God herewith anoints you ruler over this people—God’s own. When you leave me today, you will meet two men near the tomb of Rachel in the territory of Benjamin, at Zelzah, and they will tell you that the donkeys you set out to look for have been found, and that your father has stopped being concerned about the donkeys and is worrying about you, saying: ‘What shall I do about my son?’ You shall pass on from there until you come to the terebinth of Tabor. There you will be met by three men making a pilgrimage to God at Bethel. One will be carrying three kids, another will be carrying three loaves of bread, and the third will be carrying a jar of wine. They will greet you and offer you two loaves of bread, which you shall accept. After that, you are to go on to the Hill of God, where the Philistine prefects reside. There, as you enter the town, you will encounter a band of prophets coming down from the shrine, preceded by lyres, hand-drums, flutes, and harps, and they will be speaking in ecstasy. 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. After that, you are to go down to Gilgal ahead of me, and I will come down to you to present burnt offerings and offer sacrifices of well-being. Wait seven days until I come to you and instruct you what you are to do next.” (I Samuel 10:1-8)

Later, after Saul has been presented as the chosen king and some people are doubting him:

Samuel said to the people, “Do you see the one whom God has chosen? There is none like him among all the people.” And all the people acclaimed him, shouting, “Long live the king!” Samuel expounded to the people the rules of the monarchy, and recorded them in a document that he deposited before God. Samuel then sent the people back to their homes. Saul also went home to Gibeah, accompanied by upstanding men whose hearts God had touched. But some scoundrels said, “How can this fellow save us?” So they scorned him and brought him no gift. But he pretended not to mind. (I Samuel 10:24-27)

And then, a crisis erupts:

Nahash the Ammonite marched up and besieged Jabesh-gilead. All the people of Jabesh said to Nahash, “Make a pact with us, and we will serve you.” But Nahash the Ammonite answered them, “I will make a pact with you on this condition, that every man’s right eye be gouged out; I will make this a humiliation for all Israel.” The elders of Jabesh said to him, “Give us seven days’ respite, so that we may send messengers throughout the territory of Israel; if no one comes to our aid, we will surrender to you.” When the messengers came to Gibeah of Saul and gave this report in the hearing of the people, all the people broke into weeping. Saul was just coming from the field driving the cattle; and Saul asked, “Why are the people crying?” And they told him about the situation of the inhabitants of Jabesh. When he heard these things, the spirit of God gripped Saul and his anger blazed up. He took a yoke of oxen and cut them into pieces, which he sent by messengers throughout the territory of Israel, with the warning, “Thus shall be done to the cattle of anyone who does not follow Saul and Samuel into battle!” Terror from God fell upon the people, and they came out united. (I Samuel 11:1-7)

Finally, Samuel addresses the people about their choice of a king:

Samuel said to the people, “Come, let us go to Gilgal and there inaugurate the monarchy. So all the people went to Gilgal, and there at Gilgal they declared Saul king before God. They offered sacrifices of well-being there before God; and Saul and everyone connected with Israel held a great celebration there. Then Samuel said to all Israel, “I have yielded to you in all you have asked of me and have set a king over you. Henceforth the king will be your leader. As for me, I have grown old and gray—but my sons are still with you—and I have been your leader from my youth to this day. Here I am! Testify against me, in the presence of God and in the presence of this anointed one: Whose ox have I taken, or whose donkey have I taken? Whom have I defrauded or whom have I robbed? From whom have I taken a bribe to look the other way? I will return it to you.” They responded, “You have not defrauded us, and you have not robbed us, and you have taken nothing from anyone.” He said to them, “God then is witness, and this anointed one is witness, to your admission this day that you have found nothing in my possession.” They responded, “[God is] witness indeed!” Samuel said to the people, “God [is witness]—who appointed Moses and Aaron and who brought your ancestors out of the land of Egypt. Come, stand before God while I cite against you all the kindnesses that God has done to you and your ancestors. ... But when you saw that Nahash king of the Ammonites was advancing against you, you said to me, ‘No, we must have a king reigning over us’—though the Eternal your God is your King. Well, God has set a king over you! Here is the king that you have chosen, that you have asked for. If you will revere, worship, and obey God—and not flout God’s command—if both you and the king who reigns over you follow the Eternal your God, [well and good]. But if you do not obey God—and you flout God’s command—God’s hand will strike you as it did your ancestors. Now stand by and see the marvelous thing that God will do before your eyes. It is the season of the wheat harvest. I will pray to God—who will send thunder and rain; then you will take thought and realize what a wicked thing you did in God’s sight when you asked for a king.” Samuel prayed to God, and God sent thunder and rain that day, and the people stood in awe of God and of Samuel. The people all said to Samuel, “Intercede for your servants with the Eternal your God that we may not die, for we have added to all our sins the wickedness of asking for a king.” But Samuel said to the people, “Have no fear. You have, indeed, done all those wicked things. Do not, however, turn away from God, but serve God with all your heart. Do not turn away to follow worthless things, which can neither profit nor save but are worthless. For the sake of God’s great name, God will never abandon this people, seeing that God undertook to make you a covenanted people. As for me, far be it from me to sin against God and refrain from praying for you; and I will continue to instruct you in the practice of what is good and right. Above all, you must revere God and serve faithfully with all your heart; and consider how grandly you have been dealt with. For if you persist in your wrongdoing, both you and your king will be swept away.” (I Samuel 10:24-12:25)

It's a lot to take in, but it’s packed with drama, divine intervention, and some really important lessons about leadership and our relationship with God.

Close Reading

This passage is incredibly rich, and even in this snapshot, we see some profound ideas unfolding. Let's zoom in on a few key insights that can really resonate with us today.

### Insight 1: Signs of Divine Selection and Personal Transformation

The text describes Samuel anointing Saul with oil, a symbolic act of choosing him for a special role. But it's not just about a fancy ceremony. God then orchestrates a series of events – meeting men who confirm his lost donkeys are found, encountering pilgrims, and then, crucially, joining a group of prophets who are speaking in ecstasy.

Elaboration: When Samuel anoints Saul, it's like receiving a divine "you're hired!" email, but with a lot more ceremony and a divine sender. The oil isn't just for show; it's a tangible marker of God's favor and selection. It’s a signal to Saul, and later to others, that something significant has happened. The subsequent events are not random coincidences; they are deliberately orchestrated "signs." Think of it like this: if you were applying for a dream job, and after your interview, you received a series of perfectly timed confirmations that you were on the right track – your car started without a hitch, you found a parking spot right in front, and then your dream boss called with unexpected positive feedback before the official offer. These aren't just random good luck; they feel like confirmation.

The most striking part is what happens when Saul encounters the prophets: "The spirit of God will grip you, and you will speak in ecstasy along with them; you will become a different person." This is not just about being appointed; it's about an inner transformation. It's as if God gives Saul "another heart" (10:9). This isn't just a promotion; it's a spiritual and psychological overhaul. He’s not just acting like a leader; he’s becoming one from the inside out.

Counterargument/Nuance: One might ask, "Is this just about Saul getting lucky with a series of events?" Or perhaps, "Does 'speaking in ecstasy' mean he lost control?" The text clarifies that these are signs to confirm God's choice and to prepare him. The transformation is described as God giving him "another heart," suggesting a positive, empowering change, not a loss of self. It’s about being filled with divine purpose and capability. The ecstasy, in this context, seems to be a way for him to connect with God's presence and message in a powerful, communal way, alongside the prophets. It's a sign that he's now part of a spiritual lineage, not just a political one.

Historical and Textual Layers: The concept of "signs" is crucial in biblical narratives. God often provides confirmations to reassure individuals and the community. For Saul, these signs are not just about his personal journey; they are also meant to build confidence in his leadership. The fact that people recognize this change and ask, "Is Saul too among the prophets?" (10:11) highlights how visible and impactful this transformation was. It’s a public declaration of his new status, interwoven with a spiritual dimension. The commentary from Radak on 10:24:2 mentions that Saul's "stature and handsome appearance" made him fit for leadership, and people would be more reverent towards him. This suggests that the external signs of leadership (like his height) are complemented by the internal, spiritual transformation, creating a comprehensive picture of a chosen leader. The "spirit of God" gripping him is a recurring theme in the Bible, indicating divine empowerment for a specific mission.

### Insight 2: The People's Choice vs. God's Choice (and the Messiness of Leadership)

The people of Israel demanded a king, saying, "No, set up a king over us!" (10:19). Samuel then gathers them, and through a process of lots (a way of choosing by chance, guided by God), Saul is identified. Yet, not everyone is thrilled. Some "scoundrels" question, "How can this fellow save us?" (10:27).

Elaboration: This is a classic tension point: the people's desire versus God's plan. Israel wanted a king like the other nations, perhaps for security or prestige. Samuel, while carrying out their request, also highlights that God is their king. When Saul is finally chosen, and then later, when a crisis hits with Nahash the Ammonite, we see the stark contrast in reactions. The people weep at the news of the impending threat, but when Saul takes decisive action by sending a message to rally them, "Terror from God fell upon the people, and they came out united" (11:7). This shows the impact of decisive leadership, especially when it’s perceived as divinely supported.

However, the initial skepticism lingers. The "scoundrels" who scorned Saul represent a persistent challenge for any leader. They don't bring him gifts, the traditional sign of respect and support. This isn't just about Saul; it's about the nature of leadership itself. Even when chosen, a leader faces doubt and opposition. Saul’s response, "But he pretended not to mind" (10:27), is remarkable. It’s a sign of maturity and resilience. He doesn’t immediately lash out; he absorbs the criticism, at least outwardly. This ability to not be derailed by immediate negativity is a crucial leadership trait.

Counterargument/Nuance: One might wonder if Saul's initial silence about his anointing to his uncle (10:14-16) shows weakness or deceit. However, it can also be interpreted as humility and discretion. He's not boasting about his divine appointment before it's fully established. He’s allowing the events to unfold and the people to see and accept the choice. The text mentions that "God gave him another heart" (10:9) after he turned to leave Samuel, suggesting a profound internal shift that prepared him for both the signs and the leadership challenges. The contrast between Saul's internal change and the external skepticism highlights the journey of a leader. The "scoundrels" represent the everyday challenges leaders face, and Saul's ability to "pretend not to mind" demonstrates a nascent strength.

Historical and Textual Layers: Samuel's later address to the people (chapter 12) is a powerful reminder of this dynamic. He recounts God's faithfulness and Israel's repeated tendency to forget God and demand what they want, even when God is their true king. He lays out the consequences of disobedience to God, whether by the people or their king. This underscores that while Saul is their chosen king, their ultimate allegiance is to God. The choice of Saul is a test for the people, and their response to him, and their obedience to God through him, will determine their fate. The commentary from Metzudat David on 10:24:1 emphasizes that Saul's appearance and stature were suitable for kingship and would inspire greater reverence in the people, suggesting a holistic view of leadership that includes both God's selection and the people's perception.

### Insight 3: The Weight of Responsibility and the Nature of True Service

Samuel, after setting up the monarchy, doesn't just walk away. He lays out the "rules of the monarchy" (10:25) and later, in his farewell address, powerfully defends his integrity as a leader and reminds the people of their covenant with God.

Elaboration: Samuel's act of recording the rules of monarchy is a precursor to constitutional law. It’s a way of establishing boundaries and expectations for this new form of leadership. He’s not just anointing a king; he’s inaugurating a system. His challenge to the people, "Whose ox have I taken, or whose donkey have I taken? Whom have I defrauded or whom have I robbed?" (12:3), is a masterclass in accountable leadership. He’s demonstrating that true leadership isn't about personal gain but about selfless service. He’s setting a high bar, not just for himself, but implicitly for Saul and future kings.

This section also highlights the concept of covenant – a sacred agreement. Samuel reminds them of God's long-standing covenant with Israel, their ancestors, and how they have often broken it by forgetting God and turning to other things. He says, "For the sake of God’s great name, God will never abandon this people, seeing that God undertook to make you a covenanted people" (12:22). This promise of God’s enduring faithfulness, even amidst human failings, is a source of immense comfort and hope. It means that even when we mess up, and we will, God’s commitment to us remains.

Counterargument/Nuance: The people's request for a king, even though God is their king, might seem like a rejection of God. Samuel addresses this directly, calling it "wickedness" (12:17). However, Samuel’s subsequent prayer and God's sending of thunder and rain during the wheat harvest (a time when it typically doesn't rain) is a powerful demonstration. It’s not just a punishment; it’s a sign to help them "realize what a wicked thing you did" (12:17). Yet, Samuel immediately follows this with reassurance: "Have no fear. You have, indeed, done all those wicked things. Do not, however, turn away from God, but serve God with all your heart" (12:20-21). This shows that while acknowledging wrongdoing is important, the focus then shifts to repentance and renewed commitment to serving God. It’s a message of both accountability and profound grace.

Historical and Textual Layers: Samuel’s self-defense isn't just about proving his own innocence; it’s about demonstrating what faithful leadership looks like. He’s contrasting his service with the potential for abuse of power that a king might represent. His integrity serves as a benchmark. The commentary from Steinsaltz on 10:24 emphasizes Saul's appearance as a sign of his chosen status, but Samuel's words in chapter 12 highlight that true leadership goes far beyond appearance; it’s rooted in integrity and faithfulness to God. The "upstanding men" whose hearts God had touched (10:26) are a contrast to the "scoundrels," suggesting that leadership success also depends on the quality of the people who surround and support the leader, and on their hearts being aligned with God’s will. Samuel’s final words are a call to both reverence for God and practical, faithful living.

Apply It

This week, let's practice embracing the idea of "signs" and internal transformation in our own lives. It’s a small, manageable step that can build a lot of momentum.

### Daily "Sacred Observation" Practice (60 seconds a day)

The Practice: For one minute each day, before you start your main activities (like when you wake up, or before you begin work), pause and intentionally look for one small sign that God or the universe is with you, or that you are on the right track. This isn't about expecting grand miracles, but about noticing the subtle affirmations.

How to Do It:

1. Find Your Moment: Choose a consistent time and place. It could be sitting by your window, in your car before you drive, or even just closing your eyes for a moment at your desk.
2. Set Your Intention: Silently say to yourself, "Today, I am open to noticing signs of divine presence and support."
3. Observe: Look around, or within yourself. What do you notice?
   • External Signs: Is there a bird that sings a particularly beautiful song? Did you find a parking spot easily? Did a friend send a message that felt perfectly timed? Did you see a symbol that resonated with you (like a particular color, a number sequence, or even a rainbow)? Did a helpful person appear when you needed them?
   • Internal Signs: Did you feel a sudden sense of peace or clarity? Did a good idea pop into your head? Did you feel a surge of motivation or a sense of calm when you were feeling anxious? Did you experience a moment of gratitude that felt profound?
4. Acknowledge: Simply notice it. You don't need to overanalyze or force it. Just acknowledge, "Ah, there’s a sign." You can offer a silent "Thank you" or a nod of recognition.
5. Breathe and Continue: Take one more deep breath and then move on with your day.

Why this helps: Just like Saul received signs to confirm his calling and prepare him for his new role, we too can benefit from noticing the subtle affirmations in our lives. This practice helps us:

• Cultivate Awareness: It trains our minds to be more present and observant, noticing the good and the supportive elements around us that we might otherwise overlook.
• Build Trust: By consistently looking for and acknowledging these signs, we build a quiet trust in a guiding force, whether we call it God, the universe, or simply benevolent synchronicity.
• Foster Internal Change: Over time, this practice can shift our internal state. Instead of focusing on what's lacking or what's going wrong, we start to notice what's present and what's working, which can lead to a more positive and resilient mindset, much like Saul’s "different person" transformation.
• Connect with Purpose: These signs, however small, can remind us that we are not alone and that there is a larger flow to life, which can help us feel more connected to our own purpose and path.

Example:

• Day 1: You wake up feeling a little groggy. As you look out the window, a bright red cardinal lands on a nearby branch. You think, "That's a beautiful splash of color to start the day. Thank you."
• Day 2: You're feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list. As you’re about to start, your phone buzzes with a text from an old friend you haven't heard from in ages, saying something encouraging. You smile and think, "A little nudge from the universe. Okay, I can do this."
• Day 3: You're walking to get coffee and you're feeling a bit down. You notice a wildflower pushing through a crack in the sidewalk, blooming despite the odds. You think, "Even in tough places, there's beauty and life. That's a good reminder."

This practice is a gentle way to connect with the idea that we are supported and guided, just as Saul was.

Chevruta Mini

Let's imagine we're sitting together, maybe over a cup of tea or coffee, and chatting about these ideas. Here are a couple of questions to get us thinking and talking:

### Question 1: The "Different Person" Experience

The text says about Saul, "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 10:6-7).

Think about a time when you felt a significant inner shift or a moment where you felt uniquely empowered or inspired to act differently. It doesn't have to be as dramatic as speaking in ecstasy! It could be a moment where you suddenly felt brave enough to try something new, or a time when you understood a situation in a completely new light, making you feel like a "different person" in that context.

• What was the situation?
• What did that feeling of being a "different person" feel like for you?
• How did it influence what you did or how you approached things afterward?

### Question 2: Leadership and Scoundrels

In I Samuel 10:27, it says, "But some scoundrels said, 'How can this fellow save us?' So they scorned him and brought him no gift. But he pretended not to mind."

This passage highlights that even when someone is chosen or appointed, there will always be people who doubt them, criticize them, or refuse to support them (the "scoundrels"). Saul's response is to "pretend not to mind."

• Can you think of a time in your life, perhaps in a group project, a family situation, or at work, where someone expressed doubt or scorn towards a decision or a person in charge?
• How did you or others react?
• What do you think about Saul's strategy of "pretending not to mind"? Is it a good approach? What are the potential benefits or drawbacks of reacting that way when faced with criticism or scorn?

Takeaway

Remember this: True leadership, whether divine or human, is often marked by both inner transformation and the ability to navigate doubt with resilience.