Judaism 101: The Foundations

The Big Question

Have you ever felt like you weren't the obvious choice, the one everyone expected to succeed? Perhaps you’ve seen someone else, seemingly more qualified or prominent, overlooked, while a quiet, unassuming individual stepped into a pivotal role. This is a recurring theme in the narratives of our tradition, and it speaks to a deeper understanding of leadership, destiny, and the very nature of how God works in the world. Our portion today from the book of I Samuel introduces us to a pivotal moment: the selection of Israel's next king. It’s a story that begins with divine redirection and culminates in a dramatic confrontation, highlighting that true leadership is not always found in the most visible or powerful places. It challenges our assumptions about how greatness is recognized and where God’s favor rests. We'll explore the unfolding of this narrative, the contrasting figures presented, and the profound lessons it offers about discerning true worth.

One Core Concept

The core concept we will explore is Divine Selection and the Inner Qualities of Leadership. This biblical passage teaches that God's choice for leadership is not based on outward appearances or perceived strength, but on inner character and a connection to the Divine.

Breaking It Down

This section delves into the narrative of I Samuel 16:18-17:36, exploring its key events and characters.

The Divine Rejection and a New Mandate (I Samuel 16:1-5)

Our passage begins with God speaking to the prophet Samuel. Samuel has been grieving over King Saul, whom God has rejected as king over Israel. This is a significant moment of divine intervention. God instructs Samuel to go to Bethlehem, to the home of a man named Jesse, and anoint one of his sons as the new king. Samuel, understandably, is fearful. Saul is still king, and if he discovers Samuel is anointing a successor, his life could be in danger. God provides Samuel with a cover story: to come to Bethlehem to offer a sacrifice. This allows Samuel to gather Jesse and his sons for a sacred feast, under the guise of religious observance, while secretly fulfilling God's command. This highlights a common biblical theme: God often works through seemingly ordinary means and sometimes requires a degree of strategic action to fulfill divine will.

The Misleading Appearance (I Samuel 16:6-13)

Samuel arrives in Bethlehem and meets with the elders. He invites Jesse and his sons to the sacrificial feast. The first son, Eliab, is presented to Samuel. Eliab is tall and impressive, and Samuel immediately thinks, "Surely the Lord's anointed is here." However, God's voice interrupts Samuel's human assessment. God famously declares, "Pay no attention to his appearance or his stature, for I have rejected him. For [God sees] not as humans see; humans see only what is visible, but God sees into the heart." This is a foundational teaching in Judaism about divine judgment and the nature of true leadership.

Jesse then presents his other sons, Abinadab and Shammah, and then seven of his sons in total, but God has not chosen any of them. Samuel asks if Jesse has any other sons. Jesse, almost as an afterthought, mentions his youngest son, David, who is out tending the sheep. David is brought in, and the text describes him as "ruddy-cheeked, bright-eyed, and handsome." Upon seeing David, God commands Samuel, "Rise and anoint him, for this is the one." Samuel anoints David with oil in the presence of his brothers. This anointing signifies David's selection by God, and the text notes that "the spirit of God gripped David from that day on." This contrasts sharply with Saul, from whom the spirit of God had departed, leaving him troubled by an evil spirit.

The Rise of David and the Challenge of Goliath (I Samuel 16:14-17:36)

The narrative then shifts to the immediate aftermath of David’s anointing. Saul is plagued by an evil spirit, and his attendants suggest finding someone skilled in playing the lyre to soothe him. One attendant, recalling David, describes him not just as a musician, but as:

• "a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is skilled in music"
• "a stalwart fellow and a warrior"
• "sensible in speech"
• "handsome in appearance"
• "and God is with him."

The commentators offer fascinating insights into these descriptions. Malbim, for instance, breaks down these attributes, noting that they are all qualities fit for someone in the king's court, not just a musician. He highlights that David possessed musicality, strength, military acumen, wisdom, good appearance, and piety. Ralbag emphasizes that being a "stalwart fellow and warrior" and knowing "stratagems of war" were qualities that made one fit for the king's palace, even if the initial request was only for a musician. Metzudat David points out that "God is with him" signifies that he is a successful person who will be of help. Rashi, however, offers a cautionary note regarding the initial recommendation by one of Jesse's servants. He suggests that the servant (possibly Doeg the Edomite, as hinted in the Talmud) might have exaggerated David's praises to incite Saul's envy, thereby aiming to harm David. This adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, hinting at the political machinations that can surround rising figures.

Jesse sends David to Saul with provisions. Saul is pleased with David, and David enters his service, becoming his armor-bearer. David's music brings relief to Saul from the evil spirit.

The scene then dramatically shifts to the battlefield. The Philistines have assembled their forces, and their champion, Goliath of Gath, a giant of a man, steps forward. Goliath, clad in formidable bronze armor, challenges the Israelite army, offering a duel: if he wins, the Israelites will be slaves; if the Israelite champion wins, the Philistines will be slaves. The Israelites, including King Saul, are terrified.

Meanwhile, David, the youngest son of Jesse, is sent by his father to bring provisions to his older brothers who are with Saul's army. David arrives at the battle lines and hears Goliath's taunts. While others flee in terror, David is indignant. He asks what will be done for the one who kills this Philistine and removes the disgrace from Israel. His eldest brother, Eliab, scolds him, accusing him of impertinence and coming to watch the fighting. David, however, is undeterred and questions Goliath's audacity in defying "the ranks of the living God."

David's words reach Saul, who sends for him. David volunteers to fight Goliath, declaring, "Your servant will go and fight that Philistine!" Saul objects, citing David's youth and Goliath's lifelong warrior status. David recounts his experience defending his father's flock from lions and bears, asserting that God who saved him from those dangers will save him from Goliath. Convinced by David's faith, Saul reluctantly agrees and offers David his own armor. However, David, not accustomed to such heavy armor, takes it off. He chooses his shepherd's staff, five smooth stones from a stream, and his sling.

As Goliath approaches, he scoffs at David, seeing only a boy. David, however, faces him with unwavering faith, proclaiming, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin; but I come against you in the name of the Lord of Hosts, the God of the ranks of Israel, whom you have defied. This very day God will deliver you into my hands... For the battle is God’s, and you will be delivered into our hands!"

With a single, well-aimed stone from his sling, David strikes Goliath in the forehead, felling the giant. David then uses Goliath's own sword to cut off his head. The Philistines, seeing their champion dead, flee. The Israelites pursue them, securing a great victory. David takes Goliath's head to Jerusalem and his weapons to his tent. Saul, upon learning David's identity, is astonished that the hero is the son of Jesse.

Key Themes and Insights

• Divine Perspective vs. Human Perspective: The story powerfully illustrates the difference between how humans perceive individuals and how God sees them. Samuel’s initial judgment based on Eliab’s stature is corrected by God’s emphasis on the heart. This is a crucial reminder that true leadership is not about outward show but inward character.
• The Unlikely Hero: David is the youngest, the shepherd boy, the one least expected to be a king or a warrior. Yet, he possesses the qualities of courage, faith, and initiative that are ultimately chosen by God. This resonates with the idea that potential can be found in unexpected places.
• Faith as a Weapon: David's confidence does not come from his own strength or skill, but from his unwavering trust in God. His declaration that "the battle is God's" is the core of his victory. This teaches that faith is not passive but an active force that empowers us.
• The Nature of True Strength: Goliath represents brute physical force and arrogance, while David embodies spiritual strength, courage, and reliance on God. The narrative challenges the common perception that power resides solely in physical might.

How We Live This

### Understanding Divine Selection in Our Lives

This narrative offers profound insights for how we can approach our own lives and leadership opportunities:

• Focus on Inner Qualities: Just as God looks at the heart, we are called to cultivate inner qualities like kindness, integrity, humility, and compassion. These are the foundations of true leadership and meaningful relationships, regardless of our outward circumstances. When we prioritize our character, we align ourselves with values that are enduring.
• Embrace the "Underdog" Spirit: Recognize that potential often lies hidden. Don't underestimate yourself or others based on perceived limitations or lack of traditional qualifications. David's story encourages us to nurture our unique talents and to believe in our capacity for greatness, even when we are not the most obvious candidate. This can manifest in small acts of courage and initiative in our daily lives.
• Cultivate Faith and Courage: David's victory was rooted in his faith. In our own challenges, whether personal, professional, or communal, cultivating a strong sense of faith – in ourselves, in our values, and in a higher purpose – can provide the courage to face daunting "Goliaths." This means actively choosing to trust and act on that trust, even when fear is present.
• The Importance of Service: David’s journey began with tending sheep and serving his father and later Saul. His willingness to serve, even in seemingly humble roles, prepared him for greater responsibilities. This teaches us that consistent dedication to service, no matter how small the task, builds character and prepares us for future opportunities.

### Leadership Beyond Titles

The story of David and Goliath is not just about choosing a king; it's about understanding the qualities that make someone a true leader, whether in a formal position or in everyday interactions.

• Challenging the Status Quo: David, a young shepherd, challenged the prevailing fear and despair of the Israelite army. He spoke up when others were silent, demonstrating a willingness to confront injustice and fear. We, too, can be catalysts for positive change by speaking truth, even when it's difficult.
• The Power of Words and Intent: David's words to Goliath were not boastful but declarations of faith and conviction. He articulated a vision of God's power that resonated deeply. Similarly, the words we use, both to ourselves and to others, shape our reality and can inspire courage or instill fear.
• Preparation Meets Opportunity: David was not just a brave boy; he was a shepherd who had honed his skills in protecting his flock. When the opportunity arose, he was prepared. This reminds us to continually develop our skills and character, so that when opportunities for leadership or significant action present themselves, we are ready.

One Thing to Remember

God sees not as humans see; humans see only what is visible, but God sees into the heart. This is the ultimate lesson from David's selection: true worth is measured by inner character and connection to the Divine, not by outward appearances or perceived strength.