Why was Israel’s request for a king a problem?

Israel did not have a royal line from which to choose a king.

The people groups during this time did not have kings.

Israel was currently in exile and could not establish a kingdom.

Asking for a king was a rejection of God.

1 answer

The primary reason that Israel’s request for a king was a problem is that asking for a king was a rejection of God. In the biblical context, Israel was meant to be a theocracy, with God as their ultimate ruler. By requesting a king, the Israelites were choosing to rely on a human leader rather than trusting in God's guidance and sovereignty. This request is addressed in the book of 1 Samuel, where God tells the prophet Samuel that their desire for a king is tantamount to rejecting Him as their king.