What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 10:20? Thus Samuel had all the tribes of Israel come forward “Thus Samuel had all the tribes of Israel come forward” (1 Samuel 10:20). • Samuel stands before a nation longing for leadership, acting under the direct instruction of the Lord given in 9:16–17. • The phrase “come forward” echoes earlier public assemblies where God revealed His will by lot, as with Achan in Joshua 7:14–18; it reminds Israel that the decision rests in God’s hands, not human vote. • Every tribe lines up, just as Moses had previously arranged them around the tabernacle (Numbers 2). The scene underscores God’s orderliness and covenant faithfulness. • By gathering “all the tribes,” Samuel affirms the unity of the nation before him—no region or clan is overlooked (Deuteronomy 29:10–13). • This public process safeguards transparency. Like Gideon’s fleece (Judges 6:36–40), the lot removes suspicion of favoritism and puts the spotlight on divine sovereignty (Proverbs 16:33). and the tribe of Benjamin was selected “and the tribe of Benjamin was selected” (1 Samuel 10:20). • God singles out Benjamin, the smallest tribe (1 Samuel 9:21), showing again that He delights in exalting the humble (1 Corinthians 1:27–29). • Benjamin’s turbulent past—nearly wiped out after the atrocity in Judges 20—gives this choice added weight: grace overtakes disgrace. • Jacob’s prophetic blessing, “Benjamin is a ravenous wolf” (Genesis 49:27), begins to find fulfillment as a warrior-king will arise from this tribe. • The selection prepares Israel for Saul’s anointing (1 Samuel 10:21–24), revealing that God can craft leaders from unlikely places, just as He later calls Paul, a Benjamite, to apostolic ministry (Philippians 3:5). • The moment affirms God’s covenant memory; he never forgets even the smallest branch of His people (Psalm 147:2, Zechariah 10:6). summary Samuel’s public casting of lots places the nation under God’s discerning eye. Every tribe stands equal until the Lord highlights Benjamin, demonstrating that He alone chooses, He often chooses the least, and His choices always advance His redemptive plan. |
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