11:15 made Saul king. A person’s rise to leadership in ancient Israel can be analyzed as following a three-step process: (a) designation as the Lord’s choice; (b) demonstration of valor and of having the Lord’s power through performing a heroic feat; and (c) confirmation by the people. Saul was designated by Samuel, and he had a prophetic experience (ch. 10). Although he might immediately have attacked the Philistine garrison at Gibeah (10:5, 8), he soon after gains an important victory by delivering Jabesh-gilead (v. 13). He is then crowned at Gilgal.

peace offerings. See note 10:8.