Tyndale Open Study Notes

Verse 1

9:1–11:15 Saul’s rise to power involved a threefold sequence: (1) his secret anointing by Samuel (9:1–10:16), (2) his selection by lot (10:17-27), and (3) his victory over the Ammonites (11:1-15). See also study note on 13:1–16:13.

9:1 influential man named Kish: Saul came from a wealthy family.

Verse 2

9:2 Saul’s mere appearance—most handsome . . . taller than anyone else—inspired loyalty among the people (see 10:23; cp. 16:12; 2 Sam 14:25-26).

Verse 5

9:5 Zuph, which was probably located in Ephraim, was Samuel’s home region (1:1). God’s providence led Saul there.

Verse 6

9:6 The phrase man of God was used to describe a prophet (2:27; also Deut 33:1; Josh 14:6; 1 Kgs 13:1-32).

Verse 7

9:7 anything to offer him: Evidently, it was customary to take a gift when one sought the help of a prophet (cp. 1 Kgs 14:2-3; 2 Kgs 5:5, 15; 8:8). Some false prophets demanded gifts in return for their services (Mic 3:11). Saul’s concern might reflect the spiritual ignorance of thinking that advice from a prophet of God could be purchased (Acts 8:20).

Verse 12

9:12 Leaders of a community would normally convene for business at the town gates (cp. Ruth 4:1-2). • take part in a public sacrifice: Samuel is one of very few individuals in whom prophetic and priestly ministries unite (also Moses, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Jesus). • place of worship (literally high place): An open-air altar or platform on a hill near the city gate. High places easily became sites for pagan idolatry (see Num 33:52; 1 Kgs 15:14; 22:43; 2 Kgs 12:3; 14:4; 15:4, 35).

Verse 13

9:13 to eat: Part of a sacrifice made during worship was burned on the altar, while the remainder was eaten in a ceremonial feast by the guests (see also 1:4). • to bless the food: As a Levite, Samuel’s priestly role included offering blessings (see Deut 10:8; 21:5).

Verse 16

9:16 God’s directive to anoint him (by pouring olive oil on the head) marked Saul’s elevation in status and consecration for a special purpose (see Exod 30:22-33; Lev 8:12; 1 Kgs 19:16; Isa 45:1). • He will rescue them: As they had requested (1 Sam 8:20; cp. Judg 13:5). David eventually subdued the Philistines (2 Sam 5:17-25; 8:1; 21:15, 18-22). • for I have . . . heard their cry (cp. Exod 3:7-9): The Philistines were again threatening to conquer Israel and demand homage from them as vassals.

Verse 21

9:21 the smallest tribe: Saul tried to downplay Benjamin’s prominence, but they were powerful warriors (Judg 20:14-31; cp. study note on 1 Sam 10:17). What better tribe to lead in battle? • least important of all the families: Cp. 9:1.

Verse 25

9:25 A typical house had a flat roof that was used for a variety of purposes, such as sleeping in warm weather (see Deut 22:8; 2 Kgs 4:10).