Books of Samuel: Difference between revisions

Samuel answers the description of the "prophet like Moses" predicted in Deuteronomy 18:15-22: like Moses, he has direct contact with [[Yahweh]], the godGod of the [[Israelites]], acts as a judge, and is a perfect leader who never makes mistakes.<ref>Beytenbrach, pp.53-55</ref> Samuel's successful defence of the Israelites against their enemies demonstrates that they have no need for a king (who will, moreover, introduce inequality), yet despite this the people demand a king. But the king they are given is Yahweh's gift, and Samuel explains that kingship can be a blessing rather than a curse if they remain faithful to their God. On the other hand, total destruction of both king and people will result if they turn to wickedness.<ref>Klein, p.317</ref>