1 Samuel 19:15

And Saul sent the messengers [again] to see David, saying, Bring him up to me in the bed, that I may slay him.

And Saul {H7586} sent {H7971} the messengers {H4397} again to see {H7200} David {H1732}, saying {H559}, Bring him up {H5927} to me in the bed {H4296}, that I may slay {H4191} him.

Sha'ul sent the messengers to see David with the order, "Bring him up to me, bed and all, so that I can kill him."

But Saul sent the messengers back to see David and told them, “Bring him up to me in his bed so I can kill him.”

And Saul sent the messengers to see David, saying, Bring him up to me in the bed, that I may slay him.

Commentary

1 Samuel 19:15 reveals King Saul's escalating and desperate attempts to murder David, driven by intense jealousy and an evil spirit. Despite his daughter Michal's clever ruse to help David escape, Saul's murderous intent remains unwavering, prompting him to send messengers a second time to ensure David is brought before him, even if he is bedridden.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse occurs during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, where King Saul's reign is marked by erratic behavior and a deep-seated animosity towards David, whom God had chosen to succeed him (1 Samuel 16:13). Saul had already made several attempts on David's life, including throwing a javelin at him (1 Samuel 18:11, 1 Samuel 19:10). Michal, David's wife and Saul's daughter, had just helped David flee by placing a household idol (teraphim) in his bed to simulate his presence, claiming he was sick (1 Samuel 19:13). Saul's command here shows his relentless pursuit and refusal to believe the initial report, demanding to see David himself.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Escalating Malice: Saul's insistence on bringing David "in the bed" underscores the depth of his hatred and his willingness to kill David even in a supposedly helpless state. This reflects the destructive power of unchecked envy and paranoia.
  • Divine Protection: Despite Saul's fervent efforts, God consistently provides a way of escape for David, demonstrating His faithfulness to His chosen one. David's life is preserved through various means, including Michal's quick thinking. This highlights the theme of divine providence and protection.
  • Human Deception for Good: Michal's actions, while involving deception, are motivated by her love for David and a desire to save his life from her murderous father. This presents a complex moral situation within the narrative.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "sent the messengers [again]" emphasizes the repeated nature of Saul's command, indicating his suspicion and determination. The Hebrew text simply says "sent messengers," but the context clearly implies a second sending after the first report was given. The word "slay" (Hebrew: harag) is a direct and forceful term for killing, leaving no doubt about Saul's ultimate intent.

Practical Application and Reflection

The account in 1 Samuel 19:15 reminds us that even when facing intense opposition or threats, God can provide unexpected means of deliverance. It also serves as a stark warning about the corrupting influence of jealousy and bitterness, which can lead to destructive and irrational behavior. For believers, it reinforces the truth that God is sovereign over all circumstances and can protect His people even from the most determined adversaries, often through surprising turns of events, much like David's miraculous escapes (see Psalm 18, a psalm attributed to David concerning his deliverance from Saul).

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Romans 3:15

    Their feet [are] swift to shed blood:

  • 1 Samuel 19:6

    And Saul hearkened unto the voice of Jonathan: and Saul sware, [As] the LORD liveth, he shall not be slain.

  • Job 31:31

    If the men of my tabernacle said not, Oh that we had of his flesh! we cannot be satisfied.

  • Psalms 37:12

    The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth.

  • Proverbs 27:3

    ¶ A stone [is] heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath [is] heavier than them both.

  • Proverbs 27:4

    Wrath [is] cruel, and anger [is] outrageous; but who [is] able to stand before envy?
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