1 Samuel 10:17-27

Saul Elected King by Lot. Continues Deuteronomic narrative, sequel to 1 Samuel 8 (see above).

1 Samuel 10:17 a (to over us). Sequel to 1 Samuel 8 f. Samuel calls an assembly unto Yahweh to Mizpah, i.e. at the sanctuary there, and reproaches them for wanting a king. [In the Deuteronomic document this paragraph was followed by Samuel's speech (1 Samuel 8:11). Then came.]

1 Samuel 10:19 b - 1 Samuel 10:24. Lots are cast before Yahweh, i.e. by the priests at the sanctuary, and Saul is indicated as the king. Saul had hidden himself, but his hiding-place is made known by the oracle, and Samuel presents him to the people, who receive him with enthusiasm.

1 Samuel 10:20 f. Cf. Joshua 7:16 ff.

1 Samuel 10:21. Matrites was taken: add after this, with LXX, and the family of the Matrites was brought near man by man.

1 Samuel 10:22. stuff: baggage.

1 Samuel 10:25. Samuel repeats his statement (1 Samuel 8:11) as to the behaviour of the king, makes a copy of it, and places it in the archives of the sanctuary. [In the Deuteronomic document, Samuel's farewell speech, ch. 12, came at this point.] Samuel dismisses the assembly. Saul goes home, accompanied by the reputable citizens (so LXX); but some disreputable folk are disaffected.