1st Samuel 12 records a sad and foreboding “farewell” for one of ancient Israel’s most influential prophets and judges. The leaders tell Shmuel (Samuel) to retire, because they want a powerful ruler like the other nations.
This treatment is similar to the rebellion centuries earlier against Moses (Numbers 16–18) and centuries later against Yeshua the Mashiakh (Jesus the Christ).
The “Snake” of Ammon picks a fight with Israel, giving Saul his first test as leader. His success cemented his authority. Yet some despising of him mirrors the rejection of Yeshua as God’s Messiah.
What do the strange references to donkeys, goats, bread, wine and musical instruments have to do with the anointing of Saul as ruler? What do these symbols have to do with the Messiah?
There seems to be a messianic prophecy underlying the strange account of Saul going to search for donkeys. It may help explain why Yeshua the Messiah has two roles in His first coming and second coming.
The LORD predicted this time would come, when His people would tire of His leadership and representative government with occasional leadership via judges and prophets. Sadly, the LORD allows His people to make a huge mistake in putting their trust in a dictator rather than Him, with the aim of finally establishing the ultimate in benevolent strong leadership, the Messiah.
In another fulfillment of the prophetess Hannah’s prayer (1st Samuel 2), Israel repents from bringing false gods into the nation, and Philistia is routed in battle.
https://hallel.info/wp-content/uploads/file/081115%201st%20Samuel%205-6%20-%20Philistia%20figures%20out%20God%20wants%20the%20ark%20returned%20to%20Israel.mp3Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 50:16 — )Subscribe: RSSIsrael sadly lost the Ark of God’s Testimony in battle with Philistia by treating it as a talisman of victory rather then depending on God Himself. In this passage, Philistia learned unpleasantly that the God of Israel superseded their god Dagon.