The beginnings of the monarchy witnessed the emergence of a prophetic group known as the sons of the prophets
(1 Kings 20:35). These groups could have been quite large in number (2 Kings 2:7; 1 Kings 18:4, 1 Kings 18:13; 2 Kings 4:43) and were associated with Ramah (1 Samuel 19:18–20), Bethel (2 Kings 2:3), Jericho, and Gilgal.1 Men from these groups would serve as counsellors of kings, historians of the nation, and instructors of the people (2 Kings 4:13; 2 Kings 6:9; 1 Chronicles 29:29).2 Some commentators propose that these prophetic groups would enter into a trance state or some other form of altered consciousness. However, given their instructional role in wider Israelite society (see 2 Kings 4:13; 2 Kings 6:9; 1 Chronicles 29:29), this seems improbable. More likely they were particularly zealous for the Lord and obedient to his commands. As such, their prophesying had more to do with singing songs of praise3 and encouraging fellow Israelites to walk in God’s ways.4
20 Then Saul sent messengers to take David, and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as head over them, the Spirit of God came upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied.