Samuel

(sam'u-el.) (Script.) A prophet and judge of Israel, of the tribe of Levi, was called in his youth, while attending Eli the high-priest. He consecrated Saul king of Israel, and was afterwards commanded to anoint David. After governing Israel either alone or in conjunction with Saul during 50 years, he died in the 90th year of his age, B. c. 1072.- The canonical books of the Old Testament are ascribed to him, and form with the books of Kings a continued history of the reigns of the kings of Israel and Judah.- The first book of S. comprehends the transactions under the governments of Eli and S., and under Saul the first king; and also the acts of David while he lived under Saul. The second book is wholly occupied in relating the transactions of David's reign. [s. 793]