HEBREW WORD: נָגִיד (Nagid, ‘leader/ruler’).
When Saul is first chosen, he is searching for lost donkeys—an accidental hero with no ambitions for power. The word nagid doesn’t mean king in the absolute sense, but ‘one set apart to lead’. Saul’s surprise—"Am I not from the least?"—reflects genuine humility before the task ahead.
Personal Insight: Sometimes your purpose finds you precisely when you’re looking for something else.
Connection: Consider moments when you were entrusted with responsibility unexpectedly. How did you respond? Leadership, in any form, often begins with humility and self-doubt.
Reflection: Where in your life are you being called to step up, even if you feel unprepared?
For more questions, feel free to reach out: Ask Rabbi Ari about leadership beginnings.
