The answer is: False

1 Samuel 10 - Saul was anointed as the first king

Let’s dive a little deeper into the fascinating story of kings and kingdoms! Most people remember David as the iconic king who slayed Goliath and united the tribes of Israel, but did you know he was not the first royal ruler? That honor actually belongs to Saul!

Saul's anointing is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative. In 1 Samuel 10, the prophet Samuel finds Saul and bestows on him a divine blessing, signifying that Saul is chosen by God to lead the Israelites. Interesting, huh? This approval wasn't just about playing kingly games; it was about leading God's chosen people, a concept that influences kingship literature for ages.

Here’s a quick fun fact: Saul had a tall stature, which many perceived as a symbol of his strength and potential, a sharp contrast to David, who was a humble shepherd. Despite being first, Saul’s reign ended tragically, plagued by personal struggle and a rift with Samuel.

Another echo in this story is the theme of divine selection; later philosophers and theologians often parallel the journey of the kings as a prototype for leadership traits: how to rule with wisdom, ethics, and integrity. David, after uniting the tribes, admired this moral compass despite his weaknesses—a constant theme, reminding us that every leader is wonderfully human in their flaws as well. So while David rocked the spiritual and musical side of leadership with psalms, it all started with Saul forging the path ahead!