Image Details

©Sonia Halliday and Laura Lushington

Saul, scene 1. The first chapter of 1 Samuel records Hannah’s prayer for a son and her promise to give him up to the priesthood if her wish is granted. In this stained glass from Canterbury Cathedral in England, Hannah’s son, Samuel, is already a growing boy when his parents bring him to the priest Eli and dedicate him to God’s service. This dedication is crucial to the future kingship of Saul, for it is the prophet Samuel who will find Saul and anoint him king over Israel. The story of Saul, according to author White, is played out over seven scenes in 1 Samuel.