שמואל א, פרק ט׳, פסוק כ״ה

Following the sacrificial meal, the setting shifts from the public space of the altar to the city itself. In accordance with the customs of the time, the meal likely took place at night, after which Samuel and Saul walked down to Samuel's home in the city [מצודת דוד, אברבנאל, מלבי״ם]. Their subsequent conversation takes place on the roof of the house. In ancient times, roofs were flat, wide, and open, providing a comfortable space to stroll and speak at ease [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. However, the choice of this location holds a deeper public and symbolic meaning. Because the roof was visible to all, it served as a stage to publicly honor Saul before the city residents who had not been invited to the earlier meal. When the crowds saw the man of God openly showing respect to Saul and conversing with him, Saul's status was immediately elevated in their eyes [אלשיך].

The exact details of what was said during this exchange remain unrecorded, leading to different perspectives on the nature of their discussion [אברבנאל]. One approach suggests that the conversation focused on the events of Saul's recent journey and the matter of his lost donkeys. By addressing these concerns, Samuel fulfilled his earlier promise to tell Saul everything that was on his mind [אברבנאל]. Conversely, another perspective views this dialogue as a profound spiritual preparation for Saul's upcoming kingship. Rather than discussing everyday matters, Samuel used this time to guide Saul and teach him the fear of God [רש״י], while also revealing deep wisdom and elevated divine concepts to prepare him for the heavy responsibilities ahead [מלבי״ם].