1 Samuel 10:23

So they ran and brought Saul, and when he stood among the people, he was a head taller than any of the others.

Study Bible

So they ran
The phrase "So they ran" indicates urgency and excitement among the people. In the Hebrew context, the verb "ran" (רוּץ, "ruts") often signifies a swift and determined action. This reflects the people's eagerness to see the man chosen by God to be their king. Historically, this moment is pivotal as Israel transitions from a theocracy to a monarchy, highlighting the people's desire for a leader who would physically embody strength and leadership.

and brought him out
The act of bringing Saul out from hiding signifies a divine appointment being revealed to the public. The Hebrew verb "brought" (לָקַח, "laqach") can also mean to take or fetch, suggesting that Saul was not initially willing or ready to step into the limelight. This moment underscores the theme of divine selection and human reluctance, a recurring motif in the narratives of God's chosen leaders.

as he stood among the people
Saul standing among the people symbolizes his role as one of them, yet set apart by God for leadership. The Hebrew word for "stood" (עָמַד, "amad") implies taking a position or being established. This moment is significant as it visually and symbolically establishes Saul's authority and presence as king, fulfilling the people's request for a monarch who would lead them like other nations.

he was a head taller
The description of Saul being "a head taller" than any of the others emphasizes his physical stature, which in ancient Near Eastern culture was often associated with leadership and kingly qualities. The Hebrew phrase here highlights Saul's impressive appearance, which initially made him an ideal candidate for kingship in the eyes of the people. This physical attribute, however, contrasts with the later narrative where spiritual and moral qualities are shown to be more important for true leadership.

than any of the others
This comparison sets Saul apart from the rest of the Israelites, marking him as unique and chosen. The phrase underscores the people's criteria for leadership, which were based on outward appearance and physical prowess. This sets the stage for future contrasts in the biblical narrative, where God emphasizes the importance of the heart over physical attributes, as seen in the selection of David as king.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, chosen by God and anointed by the prophet Samuel. Saul is described as physically impressive, being taller than any of the people.

2. Samuel
The prophet and last judge of Israel who anointed Saul as king. He plays a crucial role in transitioning Israel from a theocracy to a monarchy.

3. Israelites
The people of Israel who demanded a king to lead them like other nations. They are gathered to witness the selection of their first king.

4. Mizpah
The place where the assembly of Israel took place for the selection of Saul as king. It is a significant location for gatherings and covenant renewals in Israel's history.

5. The Selection Event
The public event where Saul is chosen by lot to be king, demonstrating God's sovereign choice despite the people's desire for a king like other nations.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
Despite human desires and criteria, God remains sovereign in appointing leaders. We should trust His wisdom in leadership decisions.

The Danger of Outward Appearances
Saul's selection based on his appearance serves as a caution against valuing external attributes over internal character and godliness.

The Role of Obedience
Saul's later failures remind us of the importance of obedience to God’s commands over personal ambition or societal expectations.

Community and Accountability
The public nature of Saul's selection highlights the importance of community in recognizing and affirming God’s calling on individuals.

Preparation for Leadership
Saul's initial humility and reluctance to step into leadership can remind us of the importance of preparation and reliance on God when called to lead.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's physical appearance influence the people's acceptance of him as king, and what does this reveal about human nature?

2. In what ways does the selection of Saul as king demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can we apply this understanding to our current leadership contexts?

3. How does the contrast between Saul's outward appearance and his later actions as king challenge us to evaluate our own criteria for leadership?

4. What lessons can we learn from Saul's initial humility and reluctance to lead, and how can these lessons be applied to our own lives when faced with new responsibilities?

5. How do the guidelines for kingship in Deuteronomy 17:14-20 relate to Saul's reign, and what can we learn about the importance of obedience and humility in leadership?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 9:2
This verse describes Saul as a handsome young man, taller than any of the people, emphasizing his physical attributes, which were significant in the eyes of the Israelites.

1 Samuel 16:7
This verse contrasts God's criteria for leadership with human criteria, reminding us that God looks at the heart rather than outward appearance.

Deuteronomy 17:14-20
These verses provide God's guidelines for a king, highlighting the importance of humility and obedience to God's law, which Saul would later struggle with.