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The First Book of Samuel tells the history of Israel during the entire 11th century B.C.
The account begins with the presentation of two people of faith: Hannah, who was childless and entrusts her plight to the Lord, and Samuel, her son, who is dedicated to the service of the Lord as the last Judge of Israel.
The people of Israel demand a king for Israel so that they might be like other nations. One can hear the debate for and against the monarchy through these chapters. Samuel chooses Saul, who starts out well, but quickly sins against the Lord and is rejected.
Samuel is then sent to anoint David in his place. David enters the court of Saul (there are two versions as to how this happens) where he is widely popular. He is acclaimed as a great warrior, greater than Saul. This drives Saul to fits of murderous paranoia. He repeatedly tries to kill David. David, who on the other hand, refuses to harm Saul, is an anointed of the Lord. The Book closes with the death of Saul and his sons in battle and the beginning of the reign of David.
The First Book of Samuel may be divided as follows:
I: The Last Judges: Eli and Samuel (1:1—7:17)
II: The Inauguration of the Monarchy (8:1—12:25)
III: The Reign of Saul and the Introduction of David (13:1—31:13)