Author

Samuel, Nathan, and Gad

Written

~1050–930 BC

Testament

Old Testament

Chapters

31

Key Theme

The transition from judges to monarchy — God's sovereignty over human kingship.

Written For

The people of Israel

Introduction of 1 Samuel

First Samuel is named after the prophet who bridges the period of the judges and the monarchy. Traditionally linked to Samuel or an early prophet and composed around the 10th–8th centuries BC, the book follows the dramatic transition from tribal leadership to kingship. Key figures include the prophet-judge Samuel, the tragic King Saul, and the young David. From Hannah’s prayer to Goliath’s defeat and Saul’s tormented decline, the narrative pulses with ambition, jealousy, and divine purpose. At its core is the rising figure of David — the shepherd boy whose destiny will shape Israel forever.