The confirmation of Saul's kingship over Israel is a significant event in the biblical narrative, marked by a series of divine signs that authenticate his anointing as the first king of Israel. These signs are detailed in the book of 1 Samuel, providing a divine endorsement of Saul's leadership and establishing his authority among the people.

Anointing by Samuel

The process begins with the prophet Samuel, who is instructed by God to anoint Saul as king. In 1 Samuel 9:16-17 , God reveals to Samuel, "About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. Anoint him ruler over My people Israel; he will deliver them from the hand of the Philistines. I have looked upon My people, for their cry has come to Me." Samuel's anointing of Saul is a private affair, signifying God's choice and setting the stage for public confirmation.

Three Confirming Signs

Following the anointing, Samuel provides Saul with three specific signs that will confirm his kingship, as recorded in 1 Samuel 10:1-9 . These signs serve as divine affirmations of Saul's new role:

1. The Encounter at Rachel's Tomb: Samuel tells Saul that he will meet two men near Rachel's tomb in Zelzah, who will inform him that the donkeys he was searching for have been found and that his father is now worried about him. This encounter reassures Saul of God's involvement in his personal affairs and the transition of his focus from mundane concerns to his divine calling.

2. The Meeting at the Oak of Tabor: Saul is then to meet three men going up to God at Bethel, carrying three young goats, three loaves of bread, and a skin of wine. They will greet Saul and offer him two loaves of bread, which he is to accept. This sign symbolizes provision and acceptance, indicating that Saul will be sustained and supported in his new role.

3. The Prophetic Procession at Gibeah: The final sign involves Saul encountering a group of prophets coming down from the high place at Gibeah, playing musical instruments and prophesying. The Spirit of the Lord will come powerfully upon Saul, and he will join them in their prophetic activity. This transformation is a public demonstration of God's Spirit empowering Saul, as noted in 1 Samuel 10:6 : "Then the Spirit of the LORD will rush upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person."

Public Confirmation and Acceptance

After these signs are fulfilled, Saul's kingship is publicly confirmed. In 1 Samuel 10:17-24 , Samuel gathers the people at Mizpah and presents Saul as the chosen king. Despite initial hesitance and hiding among the baggage, Saul is brought forth, and Samuel declares, "Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people." The people respond with acclamation, shouting, "Long live the king!"

Military Victory and Renewed Kingship

Saul's kingship is further solidified through a military victory over the Ammonites, as described in 1 Samuel 11. This victory demonstrates Saul's capability as a leader and warrior, rallying the people of Israel under his command. Following this triumph, Saul's kingship is renewed at Gilgal, where the people reaffirm their allegiance to him in a ceremony of sacrifice and celebration.

These signs and events collectively confirm Saul's divine appointment as king, establishing his legitimacy and authority in the eyes of the Israelites. The narrative underscores the importance of divine guidance and the role of prophetic confirmation in the leadership of God's chosen people.