True or False: The books of 1 and 2 Samuel were originally one single book.

The assertion that the books of 1 and 2 Samuel were originally one single book is true. In the context of ancient Hebrew literature, many of the books in the Old Testament were initially composed as one continuous text and were later divided for ease of reading and reference. This practice was common due to the limitations of writing materials and the desire to maintain the integrity of the narrative.

In fact, the division of what we now call 1 and 2 Samuel occurred later in the history of the biblical text when the Hebrew Scriptures were translated into Greek (the Septuagint), and during the compilation of the Masoretic Text, where it was helpful to have shorter scrolls. Despite the division, 1 and 2 Samuel tell a coherent story regarding the establishment of the monarchy in Israel, focusing on key figures such as Samuel, Saul, and David.

The consolidated narrative approach allows readers to follow the flow of events without interruption, emphasizing the continuity of God's work and the unfolding history of Israel during this pivotal period. Thus, the correct understanding is that 1 and 2 Samuel were indeed originally one book.