1 Samuel 9:1-2 – Fit for leadership

Having told by the Lord to accede to the people’s request for a king, Samuel sent the people home. He did not act on the matter immediately. It took a while before he appointed a king for them. The reason is obvious. For so important a task, preparation was required. It is needful that the right candidate is selected. The account of appointing a king would take us from 1 Samuel 9 all the way to chapter 12. Who would that king be? What would the appointment of a king mean for the future of Israel?

It was under very unusual circumstances that Samuel met Saul, the man who was appointed a king. The first two verses of 1 Samuel 9 provide some information on Saul’s lineage. Verse 1 introduces us to Kish, who was a wealthy man from the tribe of Benjamin. We are also introduced to his ancestors, Abiel, Zeror, Becorath, and Aphiah. Although these verses briefly share about Saul’s ancestry, the focal point is Saul. Verse 2 tells us that “He … was a choice and handsome man, and there was not a more handsome person than he among the sons of Israel; from his shoulders and up he was taller than any of the people.” What is the meaning of his name? Saul means “to ask for”. Just like Samuel, Saul was also asked for. Samuel was asked for by Hannah, his mother. But Saul was asked for by the people of Israel. Then we are told that he was a handsome young man, probably the best of Israel at this point. He was not only handsome but also taller than most young men.    

Choosing a leader is something important and ought not to be done flippantly. That was probably why it took Samuel some time to prepare. The pedigree of Saul tells us that he not only had a wealthy father but that he was also a choice man. Socially, his family had some status in society and physically he was impressive. Saul was described as handsome and tall, one who was somewhat outstanding. While all these may seem important in choosing someone for leadership, what is more critical is a person’s sensitivity to God. While the outward appearance of a person for leadership does play a part, ultimately it would be his spirituality that would determine his effectiveness. These are a good introduction for a man who would be made the first king of Israel. However, there is still much to know about Saul. It tells us how important it is to choose the right leader to be effective.