CONTENTS
This Chapter opens with presenting us by a view of the prophet's anointing Saul king. This is followed with tokens Samuel told Saul, should immediately take place, on his departure from him to return home to his father's house, and which accordingly came to pass. After this Samuel convenes Israel at Mizpeh; at which convocation, he proceeds to the election of a king. Saul is elected. With which event some are displeased, but Saul holds his peace. These are the principal things contained in this chapter.
(1) В¶ 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?
The ceremony of pouring oil on the head, was the method appointed by way of inauguration into office. And this was used both in the anointing Priests and Kings. No doubt the ceremony itself was instituted with an eye to Jesus, who was anointed by the Holy Ghost into all his precious offices, as prophet, priest, and king. The holy anointing oil was made according to the Lord's own direction. See Exodus 30:22-33. Hence the church speaking of her beloved, saith, because of the savor of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth. Song of Solomon 1:3. Whether the vial of oil was of this kind is not said. But the signification was the same. And to show the good will of Samuel on this occasion, he accompanied the ceremony with a kiss. Precious Jesus! do thou grant me the anointings of thy blessed Spirit.