1 And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.

2 And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no more home to his father's house.

3 Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul.

4 And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle.

5 And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him, and behaved himself wisely: and Saul set him over the men of war, and he was accepted in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul's servants.

6 And it came to pass as they came, when David was returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, that the women came out of all cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with tabrets, with joy, and with instruments of musick.

7 And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.

8 And Saul was very wroth, and the saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom?

9 And Saul eyed David from that day and forward.

10 And it came to pass on the morrow, that the evil spirit from God came upon Saul, and he prophesied in the midst of the house: and David played with his hand, as at other times: and there was a javelin in Saul's hand.

11 And Saul cast the javelin; for he said, I will smite David even to the wall with it. And David avoided out of his presence twice.

12 And Saul was afraid of David, because the Lord was with him, and was departed from Saul.

13 Therefore Saul removed him from him, and made him his captain over a thousand; and he went out and came in before the people.

14 And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the Lord was with him.

15 Wherefore when Saul saw that he behaved himself very wisely, he was afraid of him.

16 But all Israel and Judah loved David, because he went out and came in before them.

17 And Saul said to David, Behold my elder daughter Merab, her will I give thee to wife: only be thou valiant for me, and fight the Lord's battles. For Saul said, Let not mine hand be upon him, but let the hand of the Philistines be upon him.

18 And David said unto Saul, Who am I? and what is my life, or my father's family in Israel, that I should be son in law to the king?

19 But it came to pass at the time when Merab Saul's daughter should have been given to David, that she was given unto Adriel the Meholathite to wife.

20 And Michal Saul's daughter loved David: and they told Saul, and the thing pleased him.

21 And Saul said, I will give him her, that she may be a snare to him, and that the hand of the Philistines may be against him. Wherefore Saul said to David, Thou shalt this day be my son in law in the one of the twain.

22 And Saul commanded his servants, saying, Commune with David secretly, and say, Behold, the king hath delight in thee, and all his servants love thee: now therefore be the king's son in law.

23 And Saul's servants spake those words in the ears of David. And David said, Seemeth it to you a light thing to be a king's son in law, seeing that I am a poor man, and lightly esteemed?

24 And the servants of Saul told him, saying, On this manner spake David.

25 And Saul said, Thus shall ye say to David, The king desireth not any dowry, but an hundred foreskins of the Philistines, to be avenged of the king's enemies. But Saul thought to make David fall by the hand of the Philistines.

26 And when his servants told David these words, it pleased David well to be the king's son in law: and the days were not expired.

27 Wherefore David arose and went, he and his men, and slew of the Philistines two hundred men; and David brought their foreskins, and they gave them in full tale to the king, that he might be the king's son in law. And Saul gave him Michal his daughter to wife.

28 And Saul saw and knew that the Lord was with David, and that Michal Saul's daughter loved him.

29 And Saul was yet the more afraid of David; and Saul became David's enemy continually.

30 Then the princes of the Philistines went forth: and it came to pass, after they went forth, that David behaved himself more wisely than all the servants of Saul; so that his name was much set by.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Jonathan's friendship for David.
The friendship of David and Jonathan was the effect of Divine grace, which produces in true believers one heart and one soul, and causes them to love each other. This union of souls is from partaking in the Spirit of Christ. Where God unites hearts, carnal matters are too weak to separate them. Those who love Christ as their own souls, will be willing to join themselves to him in an everlasting covenant. It was certainly a great proof of the power of God's grace in David, that he was able to bear all this respect and honour, without being lifted up above measure.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Loved him - For his excellent virtues and endowments, which shone forth both in his speeches and actions; for the service he had done to God and to his people; and for the similitude of their age and qualities.
McArther Bible Commentary
Jonathan loved him. Jonathan loved David with a loyalty and devotion indicative of covenantal love (1Sa 18:3). Hiram of Tyre had much the same covenantal love for David (cf. 2Sa 5:11; 1Ki 5:1; 1Ki 9:11). David's later reign from Jerusalem is marked by loyalty to his covenant with Jonathan (2Sa 9:1).
Bible Cross References
Genesis 44:30 Deuteronomy 13:6 1 Samuel 19:1 1 Samuel 20:17 2 Samuel 1:26

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Jonathan's friendship for David.
The friendship of David and Jonathan was the effect of Divine grace, which produces in true believers one heart and one soul, and causes them to love each other. This union of souls is from partaking in the Spirit of Christ. Where God unites hearts, carnal matters are too weak to separate them. Those who love Christ as their own souls, will be willing to join themselves to him in an everlasting covenant. It was certainly a great proof of the power of God's grace in David, that he was able to bear all this respect and honour, without being lifted up above measure.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Took him, &c. - By which it appears, that before this David had not his constant residence at court.
McArther Bible Commentary
would not let him go home. Saul's interest in keeping David in his household was more self-serving than a token of generous hospitality. Saul was aware of his promise of wife and wealth (1Sa 17:25) and, no doubt, the stirrings of anxiety/fear were in his heart toward David, who appeared as a threat. Saul preferred to have David in the court to keep a watchful eye on the young upstart.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 17:15 1 Samuel 19:7

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Jonathan's friendship for David.
The friendship of David and Jonathan was the effect of Divine grace, which produces in true believers one heart and one soul, and causes them to love each other. This union of souls is from partaking in the Spirit of Christ. Where God unites hearts, carnal matters are too weak to separate them. Those who love Christ as their own souls, will be willing to join themselves to him in an everlasting covenant. It was certainly a great proof of the power of God's grace in David, that he was able to bear all this respect and honour, without being lifted up above measure.
McArther Bible Commentary
covenant. See verse 1Sa 18:1. Further mention of this honorable relationship is made in 1Sa 19:1; 1Sa 20:8, 1Sa 20:13-17, 1Sa 20:42; 1Sa 22:8; 1Sa 23:18.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 20:8 1 Samuel 20:41 1 Samuel 22:8 1 Samuel 23:18 2 Samuel 21:7

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Jonathan's friendship for David.
The friendship of David and Jonathan was the effect of Divine grace, which produces in true believers one heart and one soul, and causes them to love each other. This union of souls is from partaking in the Spirit of Christ. Where God unites hearts, carnal matters are too weak to separate them. Those who love Christ as their own souls, will be willing to join themselves to him in an everlasting covenant. It was certainly a great proof of the power of God's grace in David, that he was able to bear all this respect and honour, without being lifted up above measure.
McArther Bible Commentary
robe … belt. Jonathan willingly and subserviently relinquished the outer garments and instruments that signified his position as prince of Israel and heir to the throne. Jonathan, a godly worshiper of Yahweh, quickly discerned that David was God's anointed and, without reservation, offered the robe of succession to the true king of Israel.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 41:42 1 Samuel 17:38 1 Samuel 18:5 2 Samuel 1:22 Esther 6:8

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Jonathan's friendship for David.
The friendship of David and Jonathan was the effect of Divine grace, which produces in true believers one heart and one soul, and causes them to love each other. This union of souls is from partaking in the Spirit of Christ. Where God unites hearts, carnal matters are too weak to separate them. Those who love Christ as their own souls, will be willing to join themselves to him in an everlasting covenant. It was certainly a great proof of the power of God's grace in David, that he was able to bear all this respect and honour, without being lifted up above measure.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Went - Upon military expeditions, of which that word is often used.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 18:4 1 Samuel 18:6 1 Samuel 18:16 1 Samuel 18:30 2 Samuel 5:2 Psalm 101:2

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul seeks to kill David.
David's troubles not only immediately follow his triumphs, but arise from them; such is the vanity of that which seems greatest in this world. It is a sign that the Spirit of God is departed from men, if, like Saul, they are peevish, envious, suspicious, and ill-natured. Compare David, with his harp in his hand, aiming to serve Saul, and Saul, with his javelin in his hand, aiming to slay David; and observe the sweetness and usefulness of God's persecuted people, and the barbarity of their persecutors. But David's safety must be ascribed to God's providence.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 15:20 Exodus 15:21 Judges 11:34 1 Samuel 18:5 2 Samuel 1:20 2 Samuel 6:5 Psalm 68:11 Psalm 68:25 Psalm 149:3 Isaiah 30:32

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul seeks to kill David.
David's troubles not only immediately follow his triumphs, but arise from them; such is the vanity of that which seems greatest in this world. It is a sign that the Spirit of God is departed from men, if, like Saul, they are peevish, envious, suspicious, and ill-natured. Compare David, with his harp in his hand, aiming to serve Saul, and Saul, with his javelin in his hand, aiming to slay David; and observe the sweetness and usefulness of God's persecuted people, and the barbarity of their persecutors. But David's safety must be ascribed to God's providence.
McArther Bible Commentary
David his ten thousands. This is a song that Saul grew to hate (cf. 1Sa 21:11; 1Sa 28:5) because it exalted David over him.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 15:21 1 Samuel 21:11 1 Samuel 29:5 2 Samuel 6:5 2 Samuel 18:3

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul seeks to kill David.
David's troubles not only immediately follow his triumphs, but arise from them; such is the vanity of that which seems greatest in this world. It is a sign that the Spirit of God is departed from men, if, like Saul, they are peevish, envious, suspicious, and ill-natured. Compare David, with his harp in his hand, aiming to serve Saul, and Saul, with his javelin in his hand, aiming to slay David; and observe the sweetness and usefulness of God's persecuted people, and the barbarity of their persecutors. But David's safety must be ascribed to God's providence.
McArther Bible Commentary
the kingdom? Saul's jealousy and malice toward David were now explicit. By his own statement, Saul acknowledged that David was the rightful heir to the throne and the one of whom Samuel spoke in Gilgal (1Sa 15:28).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 15:28 1 Samuel 18:9 1 Samuel 19:1

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul seeks to kill David.
David's troubles not only immediately follow his triumphs, but arise from them; such is the vanity of that which seems greatest in this world. It is a sign that the Spirit of God is departed from men, if, like Saul, they are peevish, envious, suspicious, and ill-natured. Compare David, with his harp in his hand, aiming to serve Saul, and Saul, with his javelin in his hand, aiming to slay David; and observe the sweetness and usefulness of God's persecuted people, and the barbarity of their persecutors. But David's safety must be ascribed to God's providence.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 18:8 1 Samuel 18:10 1 Samuel 19:1

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul seeks to kill David.
David's troubles not only immediately follow his triumphs, but arise from them; such is the vanity of that which seems greatest in this world. It is a sign that the Spirit of God is departed from men, if, like Saul, they are peevish, envious, suspicious, and ill-natured. Compare David, with his harp in his hand, aiming to serve Saul, and Saul, with his javelin in his hand, aiming to slay David; and observe the sweetness and usefulness of God's persecuted people, and the barbarity of their persecutors. But David's safety must be ascribed to God's providence.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The evil spirit, &c. - His fits of frenzy returned upon him. The very next day after he conceived envy at David, the evil spirit was permitted by God to seize him again. Such is the fruit of envy and uncharitableness. Prophesied - That is, he used uncouth gestures, and signs, as the prophets often did.
McArther Bible Commentary
the distressing spirit. The painful descent and eventual demise of Saul was marked by the persistent vexing of this spirit. See 1Sa 16:14. prophesied. This means to speak before people, not predict the future. Saul's speeches in the midst of the house were the ravings of a person troubled by an evil spirit like other false prophets (cf. 1Ki 22:19-23).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 16:14 1 Samuel 16:16 1 Samuel 16:23 1 Samuel 18:9 1 Samuel 19:7 1 Samuel 19:9 1 Samuel 19:23 1 Samuel 19:24 1 Kings 22:22

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul seeks to kill David.
David's troubles not only immediately follow his triumphs, but arise from them; such is the vanity of that which seems greatest in this world. It is a sign that the Spirit of God is departed from men, if, like Saul, they are peevish, envious, suspicious, and ill-natured. Compare David, with his harp in his hand, aiming to serve Saul, and Saul, with his javelin in his hand, aiming to slay David; and observe the sweetness and usefulness of God's persecuted people, and the barbarity of their persecutors. But David's safety must be ascribed to God's providence.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And Saul cast the javelin - Being now quite under the power of that evil spirit. Twice - Once now, and another time upon a like occasion, (1 Samuel 19:10) .
McArther Bible Commentary
David escaped … twice. As Saul's behavior was becoming increasingly violent, he made more than one attempt on David's life with the javelin. It was evident that God was with David, as it would be no small feat to dodge a javelin cast by such an experienced warrior as Saul.
Bible Cross References
Hebrews 11:34 1 Samuel 19:9 1 Samuel 19:10 1 Samuel 20:33

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Afraid - Lest as he had gained the favour of God and of all the people, he should also take away his kingdom.
McArther Bible Commentary
Saul was afraid of David. Saul, faced with the same conclusion reached by Jonathan in verses 1Sa 18:1-4, reacted with fear. Saul, a man who viewed life from a human perspective rather than a divine viewpoint, could see David only as a personal threat, rather than a blessing to Israel.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 16:13 1 Samuel 16:14 1 Samuel 16:18 1 Samuel 18:15 1 Samuel 18:29 1 Samuel 20:13 1 Samuel 28:15

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Removed him from him - From his presence and court; which he did, because he feared lest David should find an opportunity to kill him, as he had designed to kill David; because his presence now made him more sad than ever his musick made him chearful: and principally, that hereby he might expose him to the greatest hazards.
McArther Bible Commentary
captain over a thousand. Saul gave David a military commission, intended as kind of honorable exile. But this duty only served to give David opportunity to display his remarkable character and to strengthen his hold on the people's affections.
Bible Cross References
Numbers 27:17 1 Samuel 18:16 2 Samuel 5:2

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
Bible Cross References
Genesis 39:2 Genesis 39:3 Joshua 6:27 1 Samuel 16:18 1 Samuel 18:15 2 Kings 18:7 Psalm 101:2

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 18:12 1 Samuel 18:14 1 Samuel 18:16

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
McArther Bible Commentary
loved David. The writer of Samuel, inspired by the Holy Spirit, offers an editorial comment full of truth.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 18:5 1 Samuel 18:13 1 Samuel 18:15

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
McArther Bible Commentary
Merab. Lit. "compensation" or "substitute" (cf. 1Sa 14:49). Saul's later retraction of the betrothal to Merab (1Sa 18:19) was similar to Laban's trickery with Jacob and Rachel (Gen 29:25). fight the Lord's battles. A phrase Saul knew would appeal to David. Saul made the offer out of a treacherous heart, desiring evil and calamity for David. Notice the similarity between Saul's treachery and that of David with Uriah (2Sa 11:15).
Bible Cross References
Numbers 21:14 1 Samuel 14:49 1 Samuel 17:25 1 Samuel 17:36 1 Samuel 17:47 1 Samuel 18:21 1 Samuel 18:25 1 Samuel 18:27 1 Samuel 25:28 1 Samuel 30:26

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
What is my life - How little is my life worth, that by the exposing of that to some hazard, I should purchase a king's daughter! In these expressions David sheweth not only his humility, but also his wisdom, in discovering so deep a sense of his own meanness, that Saul might see how far he was from aspiring at the kingdom.
McArther Bible Commentary
son-in-law. The familial lineage was crucial when marrying into the king's family. David asked, "Who am I … or my father's family in Israel, that I should be son-in-law to the king?" Saul had asked of David's lineage three times previously (1Sa 17:55-56, 1Sa 17:58).
Bible Cross References
Exodus 3:11 1 Samuel 9:21 1 Samuel 18:23 2 Samuel 7:18

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Adriel - The son of Bar - zillai, as he is called, (2 Samuel 21:8) . This was an act of great injustice; and accordingly this marriage was accursed by God, and the children begotten in it, were, by God's appointment cut off, (2 Samuel 21:8-9) .
McArther Bible Commentary
Adriel the Meholathite. Merab married this man and bore children, five of whom were sons later executed by David as punishment for Saul's disregard of Joshua's covenant with the Gibeonites (2Sa 21:8; cf. Jos 9:20).
Bible Cross References
Judges 7:22 2 Samuel 21:8 1 Kings 19:16

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
McArther Bible Commentary
Michal. Lit. "Who is like God?" Michal sincerely loved David and perhaps was aware, as Jonathan, of his certain ascent (and right) to the throne. Ironically, Saul offered her to David, not from a benevolent heart, but as a "snare" (1Sa 18:21).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 14:49 1 Samuel 18:28 2 Samuel 3:13

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
Bible Cross References
Exodus 10:7 1 Samuel 18:17 1 Samuel 18:22 1 Samuel 18:26

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 18:21 1 Samuel 18:23

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
Bible Cross References
Genesis 29:20 Genesis 34:12 1 Samuel 18:18 1 Samuel 18:22 1 Samuel 18:24

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 18:23 1 Samuel 18:25

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
McArther Bible Commentary
dowry. Lit. "price." Saul resorted to the same treachery in his offer of betrothal to Merab, plotting to eliminate David by placing him in jeopardy with the Philistines. David, already having proved himself wise in many things (1Sa 16:18), was aware, to some extent, of Saul's intent and acted obediently, valiantly, and wisely.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 34:12 Exodus 22:17 1 Samuel 14:24 1 Samuel 18:17 1 Samuel 18:24 2 Samuel 3:14

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The days - That is, the time allowed by Saul to David for the execution of this exploit.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 19:12 1 Samuel 18:21

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Two hundred - He doubled the number required; to oblige Saul the more to the performance of his promise; and to shew his great respect and affection to Saul's daughter.
McArther Bible Commentary
his men. Cf. 1Sa 22:2; 1Sa 25:12-13; 2Sa 23:8-39.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 14:49 1 Samuel 18:17 1 Samuel 18:28 1 Samuel 25:44 2 Samuel 3:14

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 18:20 1 Samuel 18:27 1 Samuel 18:29

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
McArther Bible Commentary
Saul became David's enemy. All of Saul's plans came to naught. Saul asked for 100 Philistine foreskins; David brought 200. Saul offered Michal as a "snare"; Michal loved David as did Saul's own son, Jonathan. There remained nothing else for Saul to contrive except open hatred toward David.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 18:12 1 Samuel 18:28 1 Samuel 18:30

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul's fear of David.
For a long time David was kept in continual apprehension of falling by the hand of Saul, yet he persevered in meek and respectful behaviour towards his persecutor. How uncommon is such prudence and discretion, especially under insults and provocations! Let us inquire if we imitate this part of the exemplary character before us. Are we behaving wisely in all our ways? Is there no sinful omission, no rashness of spirit, nothing wrong in our conduct? Opposition and perverseness in others, will not excuse wrong tempers in us, but should increase our care, and attention to the duties of our station. Consider Him that endured contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be weary and faint in your minds, (Hebrews 12:3). If David magnified the honour of being son-in-law to king Saul, how should we magnify the honour of being sons to the King of kings!
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Went forth - To war against the Israelites, being provoked by their former losses, and especially by that act of David's.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 18:5 1 Samuel 18:29 1 Samuel 26:24 2 Samuel 11:1