Question

What did the recurring statement, "there was no king in Israel," really mean? Use complete sentences.

Answer 1

The phrase 'there was no king in Israel' reflects a time before the establishment of a unified monarchy, indicating the lack of centralized leadership before kings Saul, David, and Solomon.

Step-by-step explanation:

The recurring statement 'there was no king in Israel' signifies a period of decentralized tribal leadership before the establishment of the monarchy. The phrase is indicative of a time of disorganization and the absence of central authority in the Hebrew Bible. This era preceded the reigns of Saul, David, and Solomon, which marked the commencement of the united monarchy. Post-Solomon, resentment due to his excessive taxation and labor demands led to the division into two kingdoms, with Israel in the north and Judah in the south. The united monarchy period, followed by the division and criticism of subsequent northern kings, underscored the significance of centralized leadership during that time.

Answer 2

Not only did the nation of Israel not yet have a king, but everyone lived as if they had no guidance or leadership. If you read the next part of that sentence as recorded in the Book of Judges, you'll see the meaning: "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25 New American Standard Version).

The days when God sent judges (leaders) to intervene in Israel's history were days when the people forgot the leadership of God and lived like they had no leadership. They needed strong leaders from God (the judges) to guide them back to strength and to faithfulness.