Saul

Who was Saul?

According to the Bible, Saul was the first king of a united Kingdom of Israel. He was anointed by the prophet Samuel and reigned from Gibeah. He fell on his sword to avoid capture in the battle against the Philistines at Mount Gilboa, during which three of his sons were also killed. The succession to his throne was contested by Ish-bosheth, his only surviving son, and his son-in-law David, who eventually prevailed.

The main account of Saul's life and reign is found in the biblical Books of Samuel; the historicity of his kingdom has been called into question by historians.