שמואל א, פרק י׳, פסוק ט״ו

A private encounter with a prominent figure naturally draws attention, especially from close family members. Upon returning from his meeting with Samuel, Saul faces an inquisitive uncle who is eager to learn exactly what transpired between them. The uncle hopes that by gently guiding the conversation, he might uncover the true, underlying reason for the meeting [מלבי״ם]. Furthermore, observing that Saul's face is glowing with joy, the uncle directly presses him to share the details of their private, face-to-face discussion [חומת אנך, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

In response, Saul shares only a fraction of the story. He mentions the recovery of their lost donkeys to explain his obvious happiness, framing it simply as relief that his father's anxiety has been eased. While he does not lie, since Samuel did indeed speak about the donkeys, he carefully conceals the monumental news of his upcoming kingship [חומת אנך]. He also keeps quiet about all the accompanying details, including the three confirming signs the prophet had given him [מלבי״ם].

The commentators offer complementary reasons for this deliberate secrecy. Primarily, it stems from Saul's deep, inherent modesty. This defining character trait would eventually be passed down to his descendant, Queen Esther, who similarly concealed her people and homeland [אברבנאל, חומת אנך]. Additionally, Samuel had never authorized Saul to share the news. The prophet had intentionally sent Saul's servant away earlier to ensure the matter remained completely secret [אברבנאל, חומת אנך]. Finally, this silence does not indicate any hesitation or doubt. Saul fully recognized Samuel as a true prophet speaking for God and believed His message with absolute faith, even before the signs were fulfilled. His choice to keep the news to himself was driven purely by his profound humility [חומת אנך].