9:16 anoint him. See note 2:10.

prince. The word appears to be a title for “one designated to rule” (cf. its use with reference to Solomon as crown prince in 1 Kin. 1:35). Saul’s assignment in the immediate context is to deliver Israel from the Philistines, and against the background of ch. 8 the logical assumption is that he will go on to become king.

Philistines. See note 4:1.