King Saul (Hebrew)

Saul, Hebrew Shaʾul, (flourished 11th century BCE, Israel), first king of Israel (c. 1021–1000 BCE). According to the biblical account found mainly in 1 Samuel, Saul was chosen king both by the judge Samuel and by public acclamation. Saul was similar to the charismatic judges who preceded him in the role of governing. His chief contribution, however, was to defend Israel against its many enemies, especially the Philistines.