Their prophet said to them, "God has sent Saul to you as a king." They said, "How can he have the kingship when we are more deserving than him, and he has not been given an abundance of wealth?" He said, "God has chosen him over you and increased him in knowledge and stature." God grants His sovereignty to whom He chooses; and God is Encompassing, Knowledgeable.
Translation endnotes
[2:247] It seems that knowledge and health are two important characteristics needed for leadership. The expectation of wealth for appointed/elected leaders is criticized. The Old Testament, 1 Samuel 10:27, critically reports the materialistic value system of the society. 1 Samuel 9:7 also reflects the society's expectation of a false value system through the perception of Saul.