Why should Saul ask for Samuel above all others? The prophet had been the guide and mentor of the king, and had given several predictions at the time of Saul’s anointing that brought joy and peace when Saul saw them fulfilled. But as quickly as his despotic temperament began to show itself, his respect for divine counsel lessened. This attitude, in turn, developed into an indifference and even hatred, until the king neglected every administrative responsibility in his attempt to exterminate his rival. With the memory of David’s kindness on two different occasions still rankling in his diseased mind, Saul began to realize that he had failed in the eyes of many of his subjects whom he saw deserting him and fleeing to David. Greatly irritated because of Heaven’s silence, he sought some method of forcing a reply.