Ancient Israel’s first three kings prophetically reveal the stages of our national development in modern times:
1. Shaul (Zionism) is primarily focused on Israel’s material success – security, economy, national unity, etc. – and for the most part envisions Israel as a nation like other nations.
2. David (Spiritual Nationalism) benefits from Shaul’s material accomplishments and focuses on the nation’s spiritual identity and connection to the Creator. David is also actively involved in fighting Israel’s wars and expanding our borders.
3. Shlomo (Hebrew Universalism) benefits from the successes of both Shaul and David but is focused less on Israel and more on humanity. Shlomo primarily sees Israel as a powerful tool (thanks to Shaul and David) to correct the world in partnership with the Creator.
What do these first three kings teach us about the stages of Israeli society’s development today?
