King Saul's mustering of all Israel (1 Sm 11:6-7) : an idealised leadership

Abstract

1 Samuel 11:6–7 report the beginning of Saul’s public life and demonstrate his leadership over Israel. However, the verses do not clearly indicate his role in the specific events related in verses 1–11. This article clarifies Saul’s idealised kingly leadership by examining some of the literary-critical issues of 1 Samuel 11:1–11 in their broader context. Saul’s leadership was then considered against its larger ancient Near Eastern context. The article aimed to show that both Saul’s religious authority and also his political ability were welcomed in his emerging kingship.