I Samuel 9:2-10:23

Hook

Remember that feeling at camp, the one when you're sitting around the campfire, the stars are blazing, and someone starts to sing a familiar melody? A melody that instantly transports you back to a specific summer, to a specific bunk, to a specific feeling of pure, unadulterated joy?

“Oh, the donkeys, the donkeys, where could they be? Lost in the hills, wild and free!”

Okay, maybe that’s not an official camp song, but it’s got the spirit, right? Because today, we’re diving into a story that starts with something just as mundane as lost donkeys, and ends with… well, a whole lot more. It’s the story of Saul, the first king of Israel, and the unexpected path that led him to the throne. It's a story about looking for something lost and finding something you never even knew you were searching for.

Context

This passage from I Samuel is like the opening chapter of a grand adventure, setting the stage for a pivotal moment in Israelite history. Think of it as the quiet before the storm, or more accurately, the quiet before the coronation!

The Search Party

• Lost and Found: Saul, a young man of impressive stature and character, is tasked by his father, Kish, to find their lost donkeys. This isn't a heroic quest yet; it's a chore, a practical problem that needs solving. It's relatable, right? We've all had those moments of searching for something, only to get completely sidetracked.
• The Wilderness of the Unknown: Imagine Saul and his servant trekking through the hills of Ephraim, crossing districts, searching in Shaalim, then Benjamin, and still no donkeys. It’s a bit like being on a hike with no clear trail markers. You're moving, you're looking, but the destination feels frustratingly out of reach. This geographical wandering mirrors the internal wandering of uncertainty and the search for answers.
• The Whisper of Wisdom: Just when they’re about to give up, the servant mentions a “seer” – a prophet, someone who can connect with the divine. This is the turning point, the glimmer of hope in the wilderness. It’s the moment you realize that sometimes, the answer isn't found by looking harder in the same direction, but by seeking a different kind of guidance.

Text Snapshot

“Formerly in Israel, such a person who went to inquire of God would say, ‘Come, let us go to the seer,’ for the prophet of today was formerly called a seer.—Saul said to his servant, ‘A good idea; let us go.’ And they went to the town where the agent of God lived. As they were climbing the ascent to the town, they met some young women coming out to draw water, and they asked them, ‘Is the seer in town?’... ‘Yes,’ they replied. ‘He is up there ahead of you.’—‘Hurry, for he has just come to the town because the people have a sacrifice at the shrine today!’”

Close Reading

This text is brimming with subtle clues and profound insights, much like a well-worn camp journal filled with inside jokes and shared experiences. Let’s dig a little deeper.

Insight 1: The Unseen Hand and the "Good Idea"

The narrative beautifully illustrates the interplay between divine providence and human initiative. God has already set the wheels in motion: “Now the day before Saul came, God had revealed the following to Samuel: ‘At this time tomorrow, I will send a man to you from the territory of Benjamin, and you shall anoint him ruler of My people Israel.’” This is a cosmic "heads-up" from the Divine to the prophet.

But notice how Saul and his servant don't know this. They are operating on a practical, earthly problem: lost donkeys. The servant’s suggestion, “There is an agent of God in that town… perhaps he will tell us about the errand on which we set out,” is brilliant for two reasons. First, it's a genuinely good idea based on their limited information. They're looking for practical help, and a wise man might offer it. Second, it’s the exact path God has ordained for them to take.

This is a powerful lesson for our own lives and families. We often think that finding God’s will means receiving a direct, booming revelation. But more often, it’s about recognizing the "good ideas" that align with a sense of purpose, with helping others, with seeking wisdom. When a challenge arises, and we brainstorm solutions, making a choice that feels right, that’s guided by a desire to do good, that might very well be the divine nudging we’re looking for. It’s not about passively waiting for a sign; it’s about actively seeking and discerning.

Think about planning a family dinner. You’re looking for a recipe, and one pops out that uses ingredients you have, sounds delicious, and caters to everyone’s preferences. That’s your "good idea" moment! It’s not just about the food; it's about the intention behind it – nourishment, connection, shared time. God’s hand is often in the practicality, in the wise choices we make when faced with everyday dilemmas.

Insight 2: "A Head Taller" and the Humble Beginning

The text repeatedly emphasizes Saul’s physical stature: "he was a head taller than any of the people." This isn't just a descriptive detail; it’s a deliberate characterization. The commentaries (like Malbim and Radak) highlight that this height wasn't just about physical appearance, but about a certain gravitas, a visual cue that set him apart. Steinsaltz notes he was "prominently above his peers," suggesting an inherent leadership quality. Alshich even suggests this height was intended to inspire awe, fitting for a king.

Yet, juxtapose this with Saul's own words: "But I am only a Benjaminite, from the smallest of the tribes of Israel, and my clan is the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin! Why do you say such things to me?" This is the profound humility that accompanies true greatness. Saul, despite his imposing presence, feels small and insignificant. He doesn't immediately embrace the idea of kingship; he questions it, he doubts himself.

This is such a beautiful model for our families. How often do we see incredible potential in our children, or in ourselves, but are met with self-doubt? Perhaps a child excels at art, but feels shy about sharing their work. Or a parent has a brilliant business idea but dismisses it as "just a thought." The lesson here is twofold:

First, recognize the inherent gifts and potential in ourselves and others. That "head taller" quality isn't always physical; it can be a talent, a kindness, a unique perspective. We should acknowledge and celebrate these qualities, not to inflate egos, but to build confidence.

Second, understand that true leadership and impact often come from a place of humility. Saul’s initial hesitation isn't a sign of weakness; it's a sign of his deep understanding of the responsibility involved. It shows he’s not seeking power for its own sake. In our homes, when we lead with humility, acknowledging our limitations and being open to learning, we create a safer, more authentic environment for everyone. We teach our children that it’s okay not to have all the answers, and that genuine strength lies in vulnerability and a willingness to grow. The son of Kish, who felt he was from the "least" clan, was chosen precisely because he didn't presume greatness, but was chosen for it.

Micro-Ritual

Let’s bring this sense of divine guidance and humble beginnings into our homes with a simple tweak to our Friday night or Havdalah.

The "Unexpected Blessing" Toast

Occasion: Friday night dinner or at the end of Shabbat with Havdalah.

What to do:

1. Gather your crew: Get everyone around the table or the Havdalah candles.
2. Pour a special drink: It could be grape juice, sparkling cider, or even just water.
3. The Prompt: Instead of the usual blessings, introduce this: "Tonight, we’re going to do something a little different. We’re going to make a toast to an ‘unexpected blessing.’ Think about something good that happened this week – big or small – that you didn’t necessarily plan for or expect. Maybe it was finding a lost item, a moment of unexpected joy, a helpful conversation, or a quiet moment of peace. It doesn't have to be grand. The goal is to recognize the good that God, or the universe, or just good fortune, sends our way when we're not even looking for it."
4. The Toast: Go around the circle, and each person shares their "unexpected blessing" and makes a simple toast to it. For example: "To finding that missing sock! I toast to the unexpected relief of a complete pair!" Or, "To the spontaneous laughter we shared yesterday. I toast to the joy that pops up when we least expect it!"
5. Optional Sing-along: You can end with a simple, familiar tune that feels joyful and unifying. Something like the melody for "Shalom Aleichem" (even if you don't sing the words, just the tune) or a simple hummed niggun (a wordless, melodic chant). The idea is to create a moment of shared appreciation and connection.

Why it works: This ritual directly echoes Saul’s journey. He was looking for donkeys and found kingship. We are often so focused on our intended goals that we miss the smaller, unexpected blessings that enrich our lives. This toast encourages us to:

• Be Present: It shifts our focus from what we lack or seek to what we have and receive.
• Recognize Divine Providence: It acknowledges that good things often come our way in surprising ways, a subtle nod to the idea that God is involved in the details of our lives.
• Foster Gratitude: It cultivates a habit of thankfulness for the everyday miracles.
• Connect as a Family: It provides a shared experience of reflection and appreciation.

This is a simple, adaptable ritual that can bring a touch of "campfire Torah" – that feeling of wonder and connection – into your home.

Chevruta Mini

Grab a partner (or just ponder these yourself!) and chat about these:

Question 1

The text says Saul was "a head taller" and also "only a Benjaminite, from the smallest of the tribes." How can someone be both physically imposing and feel genuinely small or humble? What does this tell us about the nature of true leadership, both in ancient times and today?

Question 2

Saul’s servant suggests going to the seer for practical help with the donkeys. God, however, had already planned to anoint Saul king. How does this interaction between human initiative and divine plan play out in our own lives? When do you feel like your "good ideas" are actually part of a bigger, divine plan?

Takeaway

This week, remember that sometimes, the most significant journeys begin with the most ordinary quests. We might be searching for lost donkeys, or for clarity on a tough decision, or simply for a peaceful moment. But as we move through our days, let's keep our eyes and hearts open for the unexpected blessings, the "good ideas" that lead us to places we never imagined. And let's embrace our own unique "head taller" qualities, not with arrogance, but with the humble awareness that true greatness is often found in the quiet recognition of our potential and the willingness to be guided. May your week be filled with both the sought-after and the surprisingly found!