1 Samuel 10:21
When he had caused the tribe of Benjamin to come near by their families, the family of Matri was taken, and Saul the son of Kish was taken: and when they sought him, he could not be found.
1 Samuel 10:21 (KJV)
Context
The book of 1 Samuel records Israel’s shift from the period of the judges to the establishment of kingship. The people asked for a king to lead them like the surrounding nations, and God granted their request by appointing Saul as the first king.
In 1 Samuel 10, the prophet Samuel, under God’s direction, had already anointed Saul privately. Then Samuel gathered all the tribes of Israel, and by casting lots the tribe of Benjamin was selected (1 Samuel 10:20). This verse continues that public process, narrowing the choice from the tribe to a single family and then to one man.
Meaning
The phrase “was taken” shows that the selection happened by lot, a common Old Testament method for seeking God’s guidance. The lot fell on the family of Matri, and then on Saul the son of Kish. This step-by-step narrowing from tribe to family to individual confirmed that Saul’s appointment was God’s doing, not human ambition or political maneuvering.
The verse ends with a striking detail: when they sought Saul, he could not be found. The next verse explains that he had hidden himself among the baggage (1 Samuel 10:22). This shows Saul’s humility and sense of unworthiness. He did not eagerly seek power but withdrew, showing a modest heart before accepting his calling.
Biblical connections
The use of lots to reveal God’s will appears elsewhere, such as in Joshua 7:14, where a similar process identified Achan. In both cases, the lot made God’s choice clear to the whole community. Israel’s demand for a king, however, was a rejection of God’s direct rule (1 Samuel 8:5-7). God granted their request but warned of the consequences (1 Samuel 8:9-18). Saul’s selection was God’s answer to that demand, yet his later disobedience would show the limits of human kingship and point to the need for a perfect king.
Application
This passage teaches that God is the ultimate authority in choosing leaders. He works through ordinary means, such as lots, to accomplish His purpose. It also highlights humility as vital for those called to authority. Believers in leadership should approach their responsibilities with dependence on God, not with pride or self-promotion.
Reflection
Saul’s hiding reminds us that God often calls people who feel unready or unworthy. His choice does not depend on human confidence. When God calls, He also provides the grace to fulfill the task. This verse encourages readers to trust God’s sovereign selection and to respond with humble obedience, even when the calling feels overwhelming.
