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Who Was Saul in the Bible?
The short version, the key verse, and three quiz questions to check what you remember.
Saul was Israel’s first king.
Tall and impressive, Saul was anointed by Samuel as Israel’s first king. He began well but disobeyed God, and the kingdom was given to David. Jealous of David, Saul repeatedly tried to kill him. He died in battle against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa.
Key verse
And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD ? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.1 Samuel 15:22 (KJV)
Where to read about Saul
1 Samuel 9–31
Quick quiz
1. Who anointed Saul king?
Samuel.
2. Which young man did Saul become jealous of?
David.
3. Where did Saul die?
Mount Gilboa (1 Samuel 31).
Next: David · Previous: Samuel