Who was the first king of Israel?

The first king of Israel was Saul, who was anointed by the prophet Samuel as the inaugural monarch to unite the tribes of Israel and lead them against their enemies. Saul's rise to kingship marked a significant transition in Israel's governance, as prior to this, Israel was led by judges. The anointing of Saul signified God’s selection for a leader to provide stability and military leadership during a time of external threats, particularly from the Philistines.

The narrative surrounding Saul's reign can be found in 1 Samuel, where his initial success and charisma are highlighted, alongside the challenges he faced that ultimately led to his rejection by God in favor of David. Understanding Saul's role as the first king provides a foundational context for the later kings of Israel and the establishment of the monarchy in the biblical narrative.