Samuel now serves the nation as defacto leader as well as prophet and priest. He appoints his sons as judges over Israel, though they rule over the people with bribes, oppression, and disobedience to Yahweh. The people come to Samuel and demand he appoint a king, just like the nations around them. Though it is not God's plan, he directs Samuel to give the people what they wish for, and appoints Saul, the first King of Israel.