23. Rebellion against him is as bad as witchcraft, and arrogance is as sinful as idolatry. Because you rejected the Lord's command, he has rejected you as king.”
24. “Yes, I have sinned,” Saul replied. “I disobeyed the Lord's command and your instructions. I was afraid of my men and did what they wanted.
25. But now I beg you, forgive my sin and go back with me, so that I can worship the Lord.”
26. “I will not go back with you,” Samuel answered. “You rejected the Lord's command, and he has rejected you as king of Israel.”
27. Then Samuel turned to leave, but Saul caught hold of his cloak, and it tore.
28. Samuel said to him, “The Lord has torn the kingdom of Israel away from you today and given it to someone who is a better man than you.