Saul, born to a wealthy family from the tribe of Benjamin, was the first king of the United Monarchy of Israel and Judah. Known for his imposing stature and leadership, Saul’s life took a dramatic turn on the road to Damascus. After a divine encounter with Jesus Christ, Saul was transformed into Paul, a fervent apostle who spread the gospel with unwavering dedication.

Saul, whose name in Hebrew is שָׁאוּל (Šāʾūl), meaning “asked/prayed for”, was a monarch of ancient Israel and Judah and the first king of the United Monarchy, according to the Hebrew Bible and Old Testament. Saul was the son of Kish from the tribe of Benjamin. He came from a wealthy family and was described as tall, dark, and handsome. In the New Testament, Saul of Tarsus (Acts 8–9) was known for persecuting the disciples of the Lord.

**Saul Becomes Paul**:
The transformation of Saul to Paul is a significant event in the New Testament. Saul’s journey to Damascus was a turning point. As he journeyed, he was surrounded by a light from heaven. He fell to the earth and heard a voice saying unto him, “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?” He replied, “Who art thou, Lord?” The Lord said, “I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.”

Saul, trembling and astonished, asked, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” The Lord instructed him to go into the city, where it would be told what he must do. After this encounter, Saul was blind for three days and did not eat or drink. A disciple named Ananias was instructed by the Lord in a vision to find Saul and restore his sight. Ananias found Saul, laid his hands on him, and Saul received his sight, was filled with the Holy Ghost, and was baptized.

From then on, Saul started preaching that Jesus is the Son of God. It’s important to note that Saul’s name was also Paul. The custom of dual names was common in those days. Acts 13:9 describes the apostle as “Saul, who was also called Paul.” From that verse on, Saul is always referred to in Scripture as “Paul”. Contrary to popular belief, Saul did not drop his Jewish name to fully embrace his new life and vocation as a Christian missionary to the Gentiles.

So, the transformation of Saul to Paul is more about his spiritual conversion and mission rather than a change of name. His life serves as a powerful testimony of repentance and grace.

• Acts 9:1-19
• Acts 13:9
• Acts 9:4-6
• Acts 22:7
• Acts 9:42
• Acts 13:9-11