Summary
After the death of Saul’s father, Saul governs Israel for two years, sending men to confront a Philistine garrison at Geba. The Philistines mass at Michmash and threaten Israel, causing the Israelites to hide in caves. Saul, delayed in Gilgal, offers a burnt offering himself because he fears the Philistines and Samuel has not come, defying God’s command to wait for the prophet. Samuel rebukes Saul for acting independently, declaring that Saul’s kingdom will not endure and that the Lord has sought a man after His own heart to lead Israel. Saul and his son Jonathan regroup at Gibeah of Benjamin while the Philistines camp at Michmash, preparing for battle.