The story begins after Mûsâ (peace be upon him), among the leaders of the Children of Israel.
Have you not considered the leaders of the Children of Israel after Mûsâ,
when they said to a prophet of theirs: “Raise up a king for us, and we will fight in Allah's way”?
The verse does not name this prophet. Ibn Kathîr reports that Mujâhid said it was Shamwîl.
Their prophet asked them: “And if fighting is prescribed for you, might you not refuse to fight?”
They answered: “Why would we not fight in Allah's way, when we have been driven from our homes and our children?”
But when fighting was prescribed for them, they turned away, except a few of them.
They had asked to fight themselves. When the fighting came, most of them turned away.
And their prophet said to them: “Allah has raised up Tâlût for you as king.”
They said: “How can he have kingship over us, when we are more worthy of it than he is,
and he has not been given abundant wealth?”
Ibn Kathîr explains: Tâlût was not from the family of their kings, and he was poor.
Some commentators said he carried water for people, others that he dyed hides. Allah knows best.
He said: “Allah has chosen him over you, and increased him greatly in knowledge and in body.
And Allah gives His kingdom to whom He wills.”
They spoke of lineage and money. The answer spoke of Allah's choice, of knowledge and of strength.
They had lost their homes and their children. They asked for a king to lead them.
Allah gave them one. And their first word was: why him?
They judged a king by his purse. Allah looked at his knowledge and his strength.
Tonight, think of someone you underestimated for what they lack, and look at what they have.