What are the three commandments Israel was obligated to fulfill upon entering the Land?
The Rambam opens with these three sequential mitzvot: appoint a king, eradicate Amalek, and build God's Chosen House.
Question 2
Why must a king NOT be appointed from converts?
Deuteronomy 17:15 requires a king from 'your brethren' — one whose mother is a native-born Israelite. This applies to all positions of authority.
Question 3
What happens when a king's son inherits the throne but lacks his father's wisdom?
If the son has yirat shamayim (fear of God), he is placed in his father's position and taught. Wisdom alone without fear disqualifies a candidate entirely.
Question 4
Why did God disapprove of Israel's request for a king from Samuel?
Though appointing a king is a mitzvah, God said 'they have not rejected you but Me' — their intent was to reject Samuel, not to fulfill the divine commandment.
Question 5
Under what circumstances is a king's son anointed at his coronation?
A son who peacefully inherits his father's throne is not anointed. Anointing is used to resolve dispute — as with Solomon (Adoniyahu's claim) and Yoash (Atalyah's usurpation).