David Anointed at Bethlehem

Following the rejection of Saul as king, the Lord instructs Samuel to fill his horn with oil and travel to Bethlehem to visit Jesse, for a king has been provided among his sons (1 Samuel 16:1). Samuel expresses concern that Saul will kill him if he hears of the mission, so the Lord directs him to take a heifer and claim he has come to sacrifice. Upon his arrival, the elders of Bethlehem tremble and ask if he comes peaceably, to which Samuel confirms his intent to sacrifice and invites Jesse and his sons to the ritual (1 Samuel 16:4-5).

When Jesse’s sons arrive, Samuel observes Eliab and assumes he is the Lord’s anointed due to his appearance. However, the Lord informs Samuel not to look at his countenance or height, stating that man looks at the outward appearance but the Lord looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Jesse proceeds to present seven of his sons to Samuel, including Abinadab and Shammah, but the Lord does not choose any of them. Samuel then asks Jesse if all his children are present. Jesse indicates that the youngest remains, and he is currently tending the sheep (1 Samuel 16:11).

Samuel refuses to sit down until the youngest son arrives. The text describes David as ruddy, with a beautiful countenance and goodly to look at. The Lord commands Samuel to arise and anoint him, for he is the one (1 Samuel 16:12). Samuel takes the horn of oil and anoints David in the presence of his brothers, and the spirit of the Lord comes upon David from that day forward. Meanwhile, the spirit of the Lord departs from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubles him (1 Samuel 16:14). The text does not say whether Jesse or the brothers understood the full significance of the anointing at that moment.