Class Description:
One of the pivotal — and enigmatic — moments in Jewish history was the moment that Shmuel HaNavi anointed a king over the Jewish people, dramatically changing the entire landscape of national life. From among all of the Jewish people, Shaul was deemed worthy for this new and important position. And, yet, the details of his behavior as king perplexes the casual reader of the Tanach. In this course we will analyze the reign of Shaul HaMelech. We will begin by identifying the traits that made Shaul worthy of being chosen by G-d for this important role. We will then analyze Shaul’s behavior as king as he navigated the many conflicting responsibilities and daunting challenges which he confronted. In the process, we will come to a greater appreciation of the nobility of character that the Torah expects [read: demands] from every member of Klal Yisrael, not just its leaders. This course will draw on sources from the classical commentaries (Rishonim and Acharonim), relevant Aggadita, and the Ba’alei Mussar.