1 Samuel, Chapter 10

- מ ב ה -

The Israelites Proclaim Their New King

Samuel anoints Saul as king. The prophet pours oil on the crown of Saul’s head, reminding Saul that God is the source of his strength. Samuel then informs Saul that God’s spirit will move him. The very acceptance of a new task can trigger an inner transformation. This is why we must display decisiveness and determination when obtaining a position of power. If we remain keen to impact the world and restore harmony, we will surely attain many blessings. 

Samuel mocks the people’s decision. He asserts that since God is the author of all the miracles they have witnessed and the source of their sustenance, there is no need for a king of flesh and blood. However, God has nevertheless decided to accept the people’s request in order to prove to them that He is attentive to their prayers. On the one hand, the Bible describes Saul as a humble man (see 1 Samuel 10:20); on the other hand, he is also portrayed as an outstanding individual (idem, 10:24) who understands his place and role as an emissary of God. We must constantly strive to fulfill our mission, but we must also always remember that God is the source of our strength and the driving force of the universe.

“Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the Lord hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?” (1 Samuel 10:1)

 “And they ran and fetched him thence: and when he stood among the people, he was higher than any of the people from his shoulders and upward. And Samuel said to all the people, See ye him whom the Lord hath chosen, that there is none like him among all the people? And all the people shouted, and said, God save the king” (1 Samuel 10:23-24)

Realization is transforming ideas and plans into concrete results – in the same way that God has the power of creation.