1 Samuel 10 and 11:12-15 recount the anointing of Saul as king and the confirmation of his reign after a victory, showing the beginning of his leadership in Israel. Read the full text here and here.

Text Structure

1Sm 10:1-8

The anointing of Saul. Samuel anoints Saul and announces signs that would confirm his calling, showing that his choice came from God and not merely from the will of the people.

1Sm 10:9-13

The inner transformation. God changes Saul’s heart, and he begins to prophesy, showing that spiritual empowerment accompanies the calling.

1Sm 10:17-24

The public presentation. Saul is chosen before the people, but initially hides, revealing insecurity even in the face of divine confirmation.

1Sm 10:25-27

The people’s reaction. Some accept Saul, while others despise him, showing that the beginning of his leadership already faces different responses.

1Sm 11:12-15

The confirmation of the reign. After victory over the enemies, the people recognize Saul as king, and the kingdom is renewed with celebration and commitment.

Additional Literature

As a complement to the theme addressed in 1 Samuel 10; 11:12-15, the following reading is recommended:

Patriarchs and Prophets, chapter 59 - “The First King of Israel”

Reflection

1 Samuel 10 shows that God’s calling comes with empowerment. Saul was not only chosen, but also prepared for the role.

His initial insecurity reveals that divine confirmation does not eliminate human doubts. Even so, God continues guiding the process.

As presented in Patriarchs and Prophets, chapter 59, the beginning of Saul shows that God grants real opportunities to fulfill a purpose.

This passage teaches that beginnings are important, but they must be sustained. The start may be promising, but continuity depends on the choices made.