David Anointed by Samuel

Context & Setting

  • Main Biblical Reference: 1 Samuel 16:1–13
  • Historical Period: The era of Israel’s early monarchy, after Saul’s reign had begun
  • Geographic Location: Bethlehem (in Judah), at the house of Jesse
  • Key Characters: God (the LORD), Samuel, Jesse, David, David’s brothers

The Narrative

The Beginning:
After Saul’s disobedience, the LORD tells Samuel to stop mourning and to go to Bethlehem to anoint a new king from Jesse’s sons. Samuel fears Saul’s reaction, but the LORD provides a lawful reason for the journey: offering a sacrifice. Arriving in Bethlehem, Samuel calls Jesse and his sons to the sacrifice.

The Middle:
Samuel first sees Jesse’s older sons and assumes one of them must be the LORD’s chosen. The LORD corrects Samuel, teaching that divine choice is not based on outward appearance but on the heart. One by one, Jesse’s sons pass before Samuel, yet the LORD does not select them. Samuel asks if all the sons are present, and Jesse mentions the youngest, David, who is out tending the sheep.

The End:
David is brought in, and the LORD identifies him as the chosen one. Samuel anoints David with oil in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD comes upon David from that day forward. Samuel then returns to Ramah, while David’s future role as king is set in motion.

Theological Meaning

This account highlights God’s sovereign freedom in choosing leaders according to His purposes rather than human expectations. The anointing with oil publicly marks God’s selection, while the coming of the Spirit signifies God’s empowering presence for the calling ahead. The story advances the biblical theme that Israel’s kingship is accountable to God, and that God raises up a king aligned with His covenant purposes.

Historical & Cultural Insight

In the ancient Near East, anointing with oil functioned as a recognized act of setting someone apart for a special office—especially kingship—and could signal legitimacy and divine favor. Bethlehem’s identification with Judah also reflects how royal leadership in Israel would become closely associated with the tribe of Judah.

Key Memory Verse

"For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart." — 1 Samuel 16:7

Quizzes

Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.

1. Why did the LORD tell Samuel to go to Bethlehem?

2. What happened to David after Samuel anointed him with oil in the presence of his brothers?