שמואל א, פרק ט׳, פסוק כ׳

In the fateful first encounter between the prophet Samuel and Saul, a remarkable exchange takes place. Before Saul can even voice his concern, Samuel addresses his unasked question, immediately proving his prophetic abilities. Samuel brings up the lost donkeys, noting the three days that have passed. This timeframe does not necessarily refer to how long the animals have been missing, but rather to the duration of Saul's exhausting search [רד״ק]. Samuel instructs him to stop worrying and abandon the search [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The prophet offers two complementary reasons for this instruction. The first is highly practical: the donkeys have already been found. By revealing this specific information before a single question is asked, Samuel firmly establishes his authority and vision as a prophet [ביאור שטיינזלץ, אברבנאל].

The second reason carries a much deeper meaning. Samuel hints at the future by referencing the desire and treasures of Israel, which encompass the nation's wealth, assets, and honor [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Commentators agree that this serves as a clear indication of Saul's impending kingship. Samuel is essentially asking why Saul would trouble himself over a few lost animals when the entire kingdom and all the riches of Israel are about to fall into his and his family's hands [מלבי״ם, מצודת דוד, אברבנאל].

This sudden suggestion of future greatness deeply startles Saul. He finds it difficult to accept such a destiny, knowing he comes from a young family within the small tribe of Benjamin. Rather than offering verbal reassurance, Samuel responds with immediate action. He brings Saul directly into the dining hall, publicly granting him royal honors for all the guests to witness [אברבנאל].