שמואל א, פרק י׳, פסוק י״ח

Moments before the crowning of the first king over Israel, the prophet Samuel gathers the nation to deliver a sharp message from God. These words are not meant as a scolding for their request for a monarch, but rather as a historical clarification and a warning [אברבנאל, מלבי״ם]. Because some time has passed since they initially asked for a king, Samuel wants to prevent any misconception that crowning a human leader is his own initiative or God's original desire. He reminds the people that a similar message was given to them at the very beginning of their journey, when they first made their demand [רד״ק].

God emphasizes His direct involvement to make it clear that the nation has no justification for seeking an alternative savior. God has not lost His ability to rescue them, and His desire to protect the Israelites has not changed since the Exodus [מלבי״ם]. This divine salvation has occurred constantly over time [ביאור שטיינזלץ], encompassing all levels of reality. God overcame the laws of nature and the established destiny of Egypt, which dictated that a slave could never break free. He defeated the spiritual prince of Egypt in the heavens, while personally managing the physical wars on earth against other nations [אלשיך]. This rescue extended to every kingdom that pressured and harassed the Israelites [מצודת ציון].

The clear conclusion from this history is that the Israelites never needed a human intermediary or a mortal hero to win their wars [אלשיך]. The designated king is not an existential need, but rather the direct result of the people choosing to reject God's direct, heavenly rule. Samuel is now preparing to cast lots and choose a king for them solely to fulfill their demand [אברבנאל, מלבי״ם].