15:23 rebellion . . . divination . . . idolatry. Witchcraft and idolatry were especially serious sins.

Because you have rejected . . . he has also rejected. As Samuel comes to the announcement of judgment upon Saul, he expresses it in a manner that makes plain the justice of God’s verdict. Offense and punishment correspond (2:27–36 note). While Saul’s failure in ch. 13 meant the end of any hopes for his dynasty (13:14), his disobedience in the present context means the end of his personal right to be king. The next chapter recounts the anointing of David and the departure of the Spirit of the Lord from Saul (16:13, 14).