The people of Israel was composed of several different tribes (e.g., Benjamin) which had different clans (e.g., Matri) that were made up of families (e.g., Kish).1 The selection of Benjamin as the tribe from which the first king would come accords with the people’s desire for a king like the nations who can lead them in battle (1 Samuel 8:20). The men of Benjamin were renowned for being excellent warriors (see Judges 20:1–48).2
19 But today you have rejected your God, who saves you from all your calamities and your distresses, and you have said to him, ‘Set a king over us.’ Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes and by your thousands.”