Summary
Samuel tells Saul that the Lord has anointed him king and commands him to destroy the Amalekites completely. Saul gathers a large army, defeats the Amalekites, but spares King Agag and the best livestock, claiming they will be sacrificed to God. Samuel is deeply grieved, and when Saul later claims he obeyed God, Samuel rebukes him for disobedience and for valuing sacrifice over obedience. Samuel declares that obedience to God’s word is superior to offerings, and that Saul’s rebellion has led to his removal from the throne. Samuel’s mantle is rent as a sign that the kingdom has been taken from Saul, who is replaced by a more worthy king. Saul acknowledges his sin, asks for forgiveness, but Samuel refuses to return to him, marking the end of Saul’s reign. Samuel later kills Agag in Gilgal and withdraws from Saul, mourning him but remaining faithful to God’s judgment.