The Old Testament Book of 1 Samuel

The Book of 1 Samuel is a historical book in the Old Testament that marks the transition of Israel from a group of tribes to a united monarchy.

These books describe the rise and development of kingship in Israel. Samuel is a pivotal figure. He bridges the gap between the period of the Judges and the monarchy, and guides Israel’s transition to kingship. A Deuteronomistic editor presents both positive and negative traditions about the monarchy, portraying it both as evidence of Israel’s rejection of the Lord as their sovereign (1 Sm 8:6–22; 1 Sm 12:1–25) and as part of God’s plan to deliver the people (1 Sm 9:16; 1 Sm 10:17–27; 2 Sm 7:8–17). Samuel’s misgivings about abuse of royal power foreshadow the failures and misdeeds of Saul and …