Biblical Israel's Monarchial System

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Although modern Israel is characterized by a parliamentary style of government, Biblical Israel adopted a monarchial system. The ancient Israeli monarchy came into usage due to the many tribes of the state. Much like Renaissance Italy, Israeli citizens clamored for a unified country, which would in turn cause Israel to be less susceptible to invasions. From citizens’ wishes, the monarchy was formed. The monarchy witnessed the reigns of Saul, David, and Solomon, with each ruler wielding great power over the Israeli state. Developed as a response to multiple invasions and meant to promote a more unified Israel, the Biblical Israeli monarchy was able to flourish due to the reigns of Kings David, and Solomon, despite the failures of King Saul. …show more content…

Samuel, the ruling prophet at the time, stepped down so Saul could become King. Samuel was hesitant to hand over power to Saul and lectured the Israeli citizen’s about their new request for a King (2). Saul’s reign often consisted of him clashing with the head prophet at the time. One such instance is a Biblical narritve found in 1 Samuel:13-15. To seek divine assitnce in battle, Samuel says that he will make a sacrifice to Yahweh on the seventh day. Feeling impatuient and worried about the morale of his troops, Saul elects to make the sacrifice himself. Theologians claim that this a clear violation of Saul’s kingship (2). Since Samuel is acting on behalf of God, by defying the prophet Saul is also defying the will of God. Saul never noticed this, and as a result he defied God yet again. Instead of wiping out all of the residents of Amalek, Saul elects to spare the best cattle and men for sacrificial purposes (2). Saul proceeded to fall out of favor with God due to his failure to heed God’s word. In summary, despite Saul’s military prowess, his ineptitude at heeding directions paved the way for David to take the

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