1 Samuel 8

1 he made his sons, etc. This was done apparently without Divine direction and approval.

3 perverted judgement. A direct violation of the law in Deut. xvi. 19, the words of which are here repeated.

5 make us a king. The original constitution of the Jewish state did not require, though it would admit of, a succession of generals or judges, or a race of kings. As the appointment of the former arose from the frequent relapses of the people into idolatry, and their consequent subjugation by their enemies, so the regal institution originated in their culpable desire to resemble the nations around them (see ver. 20). A kingly government was by no means evil in itself, and indeed it had been provided for in Deut. xvii. 14. But for the nation to be immediately under the command of God, and to be, by His special interposition, in answer to fervent prayer, rescued from peril and trouble, was far better. Instead, however, of seeking the restoration of their national prosperity by sincere repentance, the Israelites chose to give up the peculiar privileges of the theocracy, and to resort to the principles and policy of other nations. So naturally does man prefer his own resources to dependence upon God’s help.

6 the thing displeased Samuel. There was everything to distress him. That, after the solemn lesson taught him long ago in Eli’s family, his own sons should have gone astray, must have been deeply humiliating. He must at the same time have keenly felt the disregard shown him by the people, after long years spent in their service. But still, in his displeasure he betook himself to God.

11. This will be the manner of the king. The following is a description not of what the king would have a right to do (for it is quite contrary to the law of Moses, Deut. xvii. 14-20), but of the practice of kings of the surrounding nations; and it agrees exactly with Eastern despotism where it exists still.

12 to ear. That is, “plough”: see note on Gen. xlv. 6.

13 confectionaries. “Perfumers.”

20 judge us, in time of peace; go out before us, in time of war.