1 Samuel
The book of 1 Samuel is a crucial historical and theological account of Israel’s transition from a loose confederation of tribes to a monarchy under the leadership of Saul and David. The narrative begins with the birth of the prophet Samuel, who anoints both Saul and David as kings of Israel. It recounts the decline of the priesthood of Eli and the rise and fall of King Saul, who disobeys God’s commands and is eventually replaced by the divinely chosen David.