1 SAMUEL
1 Samuel recounts the transition of Israel from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy. It begins with the story of Hannah, who, despite being barren, prays fervently for a child. God grants her a son, Samuel, whom she dedicates to serve in the temple under the high priest, Eli. Samuel becomes a prophet and leader, anointing Saul as the first king of Israel at God's instruction.
Saul initially enjoys success but falls out of favor with God due to disobedience. Samuel then anoints David, a shepherd boy, as the future king of Israel. David gains fame by defeating Goliath and becomes close friends with Saul's son, Jonathan. Saul, consumed by jealousy, seeks David's life, leading to a prolonged conflict between them.
Despite Saul's efforts, David is spared and eventually ascends to the throne after Saul's death. David's reign is marked by military triumphs, but also by personal failings, notably his affair with Bathsheba and the subsequent murder of her husband, Uriah. Throughout these events, Samuel's influence and prophecies shape the destiny of Israel, highlighting themes of obedience, faithfulness, and the consequences of sin.