As a biblical scholar with a deep understanding of religious texts, I can provide a detailed account of Samuel, a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible.

Samuel is a prophet and the last of the judges in the narrative of the Hebrew Bible. He is renowned for his role in the transition from the period of the judges to the monarchy in ancient Israel. Samuel's life and deeds are primarily recounted in the biblical book named after him, which is divided into two parts: 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel.

Birth and Early Life:
Samuel was born to a woman named Hannah, who was barren and prayed to the Lord for a child. In response to her prayer, Hannah conceived and gave birth to Samuel, whom she dedicated to the service of the Lord from a young age. As a young boy, Samuel served in the tabernacle under the guidance of the high priest, Eli.

Call to Prophecy:
Samuel's call to prophecy is a pivotal moment in the narrative. While he was still a child, the Lord called to him in the night, and he initially mistook the voice for Eli's. However, Eli recognized the divine call and instructed Samuel to respond, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening." This marked the beginning of Samuel's prophetic ministry.

Judgment and Anointing of Kings:
Samuel played a crucial role in the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. He anointed the first two kings of Israel: Saul and David. Initially, he anointed Saul, who was chosen by the people and was the first to reign over a united monarchy of Israel. However, Saul's disobedience led to his rejection by God, and Samuel subsequently anointed David, who became the second king and is celebrated for his righteousness and his lineage, from which the Messiah was prophesied to come.

**Samuel's Rejection of the People's Request for a King:**
Before anointing Saul, Samuel was deeply troubled by the Israelites' request for a human king to rule over them, as it was seen as a rejection of God's sovereignty. He warned them of the burdens and potential abuses of power that a king might impose. Nonetheless, the people persisted in their request, and God instructed Samuel to anoint a king, marking a significant shift in the political structure of Israel.

Legacy and Influence:
Samuel's legacy is profound. He is remembered not only for his role in the transition to monarchy but also for his prophetic ministry. His life serves as a testament to faithfulness and obedience to God's will, even when it goes against the desires of the people or the leaders. Samuel's influence is also seen in his relationship with David, whom he mentored and anointed, shaping the future king's character and leadership.

In conclusion, Samuel is a central figure in the religious and political history of ancient Israel. His life and actions have left an indelible mark on the biblical narrative, and his legacy continues to inspire and guide those who study the scriptures.

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Although he is mentioned in the Qur'an, his name is not given, but he is instead referred to as "a Prophet." According to Islamic history, the Israelites, after the time of the prophet Moses, wanted a king to rule over their country. Thus, God sent the prophet Samuel to anoint Saul as the first king for the Israelites.read more >>