First king of Israel from the tribe of Benjamin, head and shoulders taller than anyone else. Initially humble, he was anointed by Samuel and started his reign well. However, he disobeyed God's commands twice and was rejected by God as king. He grew increasingly jealous of David and repeatedly tried to kill him. He died in battle against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa.
RivalDavidAnointed successor; Saul sought to kill him
Anointed bySamuelProphet the Lord sent to anoint him king, who poured oil on his head
Key Scripture AppearancesKJV
1 Samuel 9:2
And he had a son, whose name was Saul, a choice young man, and a goodly: and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people.1 Samuel 9:2, KJV
1 Samuel 10:1
Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the LORD hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?1 Samuel 10:1, KJV
1 Samuel 15:23
For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.1 Samuel 15:23, KJV
1 Samuel 18:8
And Saul was very wroth, and the saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom?1 Samuel 18:8, KJV
1 Samuel 31:4
Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it.1 Samuel 31:4, KJV
See how Saul (King) connects to every other figure in Scripture.