Jonathan Befriends David 1After David had finished speaking with Saul, the souls of Jonathan and David were knit together, and Jonathan loved him as himself. 2And from that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return to his father’s house. 3Then Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. 4And Jonathan removed the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, his sword, his bow, and his belt. Saul Envies David 5So David marched out and prospered in everything Saul sent him to do, and Saul set him over the men of war. And this was pleasing in the sight of all the people, and of Saul’s officers as well. 6As the troops were returning home after David had killed the Philistine, the women came out of all the cities of Israel to meet King Saul with singing and dancing, with joyful songs, and with tambourines and other instruments.a 7And as the women danced, they sang out: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.” 8And Saul was furious and resented this song. “They have ascribed tens of thousands to David,” he said, “but only thousands to me. What more can he have but the kingdom?” 9And from that day forward Saul kept a jealous eye on David. 10The next day a spirit of distressb sent from God came upon Saul, and he prophesied inside the house while David played the harp as usual. Now Saul was holding a spear, 11and he hurled it, thinking, “I will pin David to the wall.” But David eluded him twice. 12So Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with David but had departed from Saul. 13Therefore Saul sent David away and gave him command of a thousand men. David led the troops out to battle and back, 14and he continued to prosper in all his ways, because the LORD was with him. 15When Saul saw that David was very successful, he was afraid of him. 16But all Israel and Judah loved David, because he was leading them out to battle and back. David Marries Michal 17Then Saul said to David, “Here is my older daughter Merab. I will give her to you in marriage. Only be valiant for me and fight the LORD’s battles.” But Saul was thinking, “I need not raise my hand against him; let the hand of the Philistines be against him.” 18And David said to Saul, “Who am I, and what is my family or my father’s clan in Israel, that I should become the son-in-law of the king?” 19So when it was timec to give Saul’s daughter Merab to David, she was given in marriage to Adriel of Meholah. 20Now Saul’s daughter Michal loved David, and when this was reported to Saul, it pleased him. 21“I will give her to David,” Saul thought, “so that she may be a snare to him, and the hand of the Philistines may be against him.” So Saul said to David, “For a second time now you can be my son-in-law.” 22Then Saul ordered his servants, “Speak to David privately and tell him, ‘Behold, the king is pleased with you, and all his servants love you. Now therefore, become his son-in-law.’” 23But when Saul’s servants relayed these words to David, he replied, “Does it seem trivial in your sight to be the son-in-law of the king? I am a poor man and lightly esteemed.” 24And the servants told Saul what David had said. 25Saul replied, “Say to David, ‘The king desires no other dowry but a hundred Philistine foreskins as revenge on his enemies.’” But Saul intended to cause David’s death at the hands of the Philistines. 26When the servants reported these terms to David, he was pleased to become the king’s son-in-law. Before the wedding day arrived, 27David and his men went out and killed two hundred Philistines. He brought their foreskins and presented them as payment in full to become the king’s son-in-law. Then Saul gave his daughter Michal to David in marriage. 28When Saul realized that the LORD was with David and that his daughter Michal loved David, 29he grew even more afraid of David. So from then on Saul was David’s enemy. 30Every time the Philistine commanders came out for battle, David was more successful than all of Saul’s officers, so that his name was highly esteemed. Footnotes: 6 a Possibly three-stringed instruments or cymbals or lutes or lyres 10 b Or a harmful spirit 19 c Or But when it was time Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  1 Samuel 18 Summary Jonathan Befriends DavidVerses 1–4 – Jonathan and David’s Covenant of Brotherhood Verses 5–9 – David’s Rise and Saul’s Growing Jealousy Verses 10–16 – Saul’s First Murder Attempts and David’s Continued Success Verses 17–19 – The Failed Offer of Merab Verses 20–27 – Michal, the Bride Price, and One Hundred Foreskins Verses 28–30 – Ongoing Conflict and David’s Fame 1 Samuel 18 unveils the beautiful yet complex relationship dynamics among Saul, David, and Jonathan. This chapter unfolds the deepening bond between Jonathan and David, stemming from admiration and respect, while simultaneously revealing Saul's mounting jealousy and fear towards David. Saul's envy is driven by David's victories, popularity, and God's favor upon him, ultimately leading to plots against David's life. Historical Setting 1 Samuel 18 unfolds during the early Iron Age (11th century BC). Israel, a loose tribal confederation, faces constant Philistine pressure from the coastal plain. Kingship is new; Saul, Israel’s first king, is still consolidating authority. Archaeological digs at Gibeah (Tell el-Ful) expose a fortress dated to Saul’s era, matching the royal residence where David played the harp and dodged spears. David and Jonathan: Covenant Loyalty • Jonathan’s gift exchange mirrors treaty rituals in which a stronger ruler bestows tokens of protection. Yet here, the heir yields to a younger warrior, signaling humble submission to God’s choice (compare 1 Samuel 23:17). • Similar friendships appear later: Elijah–Elisha (2 Kings 2), Paul–Timothy (Philippians 2:22). Each centers on shared faithfulness to God’s plan. Saul’s Jealousy in Ancient Near Eastern Context Kings guarded honor fiercely. Praise songs could sway public support. Clay tablets from Mari and Ugarit show royal courts where bards shaped opinion. Saul reads the women’s refrain as political polling. His insecurity, not the lyrics, inflames hatred. “An Evil Spirit from God” The text states: “the next day an evil spirit from God came powerfully upon Saul” (18:10). Scripture affirms God’s sovereignty over all spirits (Judges 9:23; Job 1:12). The spirit heightens Saul’s instability but never overrides his responsibility; he chooses to hurl spears. In the New Testament, demons likewise tremble before Jesus’ authority (Luke 8:28–31). Marriage Alliances: Merab and Michal Royal marriages forged political loyalty. Saul dangles his daughters to bind David to the royal house while exposing him to battle risk. Merab’s sudden transfer to Adriel hints at Saul’s manipulation. Later, Adriel’s sons are among those surrendered to the Gibeonites (2 Samuel 21:8), a grim footnote to Saul’s broken promises. The Bride Price of One Hundred Foreskins Philistine foreskins provided proof of enemy casualties, much like battlefield tallies elsewhere in antiquity. Saul sets the number high—double the typical bride price—to invite David’s death. David exceeds it, a sign of courageous faith and God’s favor. Psalm 18, written later, echoes this bold reliance: “With my God I can scale a wall” (v 29). Military Campaigns and Archaeological Insights • Valley of Elah pottery, sling stones, and iron weapon fragments corroborate Israel-Philistine clashes. • The title “commander of a thousand” (Heb. “sar eleph”) matches inscriptions at Beth-Shemesh referencing local militia leaders. • Philistine cities like Gath and Ekron show mixed Aegean and Canaanite culture, aligning with David’s later service under Achish of Gath (1 Samuel 27). Foreshadowing of Christ David, the anointed yet hunted king-in-waiting, previews Christ, rejected by authorities yet favored by God (John 1:11; Matthew 3:17). Jonathan’s self-emptying gestures resemble John the Baptist’s words: “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). Character Studies Saul: gifted, tall, initially humble (1 Samuel 10:22), now eroded by envy. His life warns that outward success cannot replace inward obedience. Jonathan: a warrior (14:6–15) yet gentle, surrendering status joyfully. David: tactful, brave, musical, dependent on the LORD. He models servant leadership—never grasping the throne, waiting for God’s timing. Key Themes • God opposes pride and exalts the humble (Proverbs 3:34; 1 Peter 5:5). • Covenant loyalty (Heb. ḥesed) binds true friends, stronger than bloodlines or politics. • Spiritual warfare involves unseen forces, but God limits their reach. • Obedience brings favor; jealousy corrodes the soul. Connections Elsewhere in Scripture • Joshua 1:7–9—prosperity linked to obedience parallels David’s success. • Psalm 59—perhaps composed while David is watched by Saul’s men (see title). • Acts 13:22—Paul cites David as “a man after My own heart,” underscoring enduring divine approval despite human plots. • Mark 15:10—Pilate notes the chief priests’ envy, echoing Saul’s motive. Practical Applications • Applaud others’ victories; jealousy imprisons the heart. • Trust God’s timing when recognition delays—He can open more doors than any earthly king. • Cultivate covenant friendships grounded in faith; they steady us in turbulence. • Exchange fear for worship—music soothed Saul temporarily, but wholehearted repentance would have healed him permanently. Closing Reflection In 1 Samuel 18, two paths diverge: Saul’s self-preservation versus Jonathan’s self-giving and David’s God-centered courage. The chapter invites every reader to trade the spear of envy for the robe of covenant love, confident that “the LORD was with David” (v 12)—and is with all who walk humbly with Him today. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 17:17A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. This verse underscores the steadfast nature of true friendship. James 3:16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice. This highlights the destructive nature of jealousy. Philippians 2:3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. This encourages humility and selflessness. Teaching Points The Covenant FriendshipJonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself (1 Samuel 18:3). This covenant signifies a deep, selfless love that mirrors the love Christ calls us to have for one another. Saul's Jealousy Saul was very angry, and this song displeased him. 'They have ascribed tens of thousands to David,' he said, 'but only thousands to me. What more can he have but the kingdom?' (1 Samuel 18:8). Saul's jealousy blinds him to David's loyalty and service. David's Success and Humility David continued to prosper in all his ways, for the LORD was with him (1 Samuel 18:14). Despite his success, David remains humble and faithful, a testament to his character and God's favor. The Role of Fear When Saul saw that David was very successful, he was afraid of him (1 Samuel 18:15). Fear can distort our perception and lead to irrational actions, as seen in Saul's behavior. Practical Applications Cultivate Godly FriendshipsSeek relationships that are rooted in mutual love and respect, like that of David and Jonathan, and strive to be a friend who loves selflessly. Guard Against Jealousy Recognize and address feelings of jealousy before they take root and cause harm to relationships and personal well-being. Embrace Humility In times of success, remember to give glory to God and maintain a humble spirit, acknowledging that all achievements are by His grace. Trust in God's Plan When faced with fear or uncertainty, trust in God's sovereignty and His plan for your life, as David did. People 1. DavidDavid is the central figure in 1 Samuel 18, known for his victory over Goliath and his rising popularity in Israel. He is described as a skilled warrior and musician, and he becomes a close friend of Jonathan, King Saul's son. The chapter highlights David's success and the resulting jealousy from Saul. The Hebrew root for David's name, דָּוִד (Dawid), means "beloved." 2. Jonathan Jonathan is the son of King Saul and becomes a close friend of David. Their friendship is marked by a covenant, and Jonathan gives David his robe, armor, sword, bow, and belt as a sign of their bond. Jonathan's loyalty to David is significant, as it contrasts with his father's growing animosity towards David. 3. Saul King Saul is the first king of Israel and the father of Jonathan. In 1 Samuel 18, Saul's jealousy and fear of David's success and popularity become evident. Saul's attempts to harm David are a central theme in the chapter. The Hebrew root for Saul's name, שָׁאוּל (Sha'ul), means "asked for" or "prayed for." 4. Michal Michal is Saul's daughter who falls in love with David. Saul uses this to his advantage, offering her to David as a wife with the hope that it will lead to David's downfall. Michal's affection for David plays a role in the unfolding events of the chapter. 5. The Servants of Saul The servants of Saul are mentioned as those who relay Saul's intentions and plans to David. They play a role in communicating Saul's offers and schemes, particularly regarding the marriage to Michal. 6. The Philistines The Philistines are the enemies of Israel, and their ongoing conflict with Israel is a backdrop to the events of 1 Samuel 18. David's success in battles against the Philistines contributes to his rising fame and Saul's jealousy. Places 1. GibeahThis is the city where King Saul's palace is located. It serves as the central location for much of Saul's reign and is where David spends considerable time after becoming part of Saul's court. The Hebrew root for Gibeah (גִּבְעָה) means "hill," indicating its geographical feature. 2. The Field While not named specifically, the field is a general location where David and Jonathan meet to discuss Saul's intentions. It represents a place of secrecy and trust between the two friends. 3. The House of Saul This refers to the royal household or palace where Saul resides. It is a place of both political power and personal conflict, as David navigates his relationship with Saul and Jonathan. Events 1. Jonathan's Covenant with DavidJonathan, the son of King Saul, forms a deep bond with David. The scripture states, "Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself" (1 Samuel 18:1). This covenant signifies a strong, brotherly alliance, rooted in the Hebrew concept of "chesed," meaning loving-kindness or loyalty. 2. David's Success and Saul's Jealousy David gains favor in Saul's eyes and is set over the men of war. The people and Saul's servants are pleased with David's leadership (1 Samuel 18:5). However, Saul becomes jealous when the women sing, "Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands" (1 Samuel 18:7). The Hebrew word "qana" (קָנָא) reflects Saul's intense jealousy. 3. Saul's Attempt to Kill David An evil spirit from God comes upon Saul, and he tries to pin David to the wall with a spear, but David escapes twice (1 Samuel 18:10-11). The Hebrew term "ra'ah" (רָעָה) for "evil" indicates a harmful or distressing spirit. 4. David's Continued Success Despite Saul's fear and hostility, David continues to succeed because "the LORD was with him" (1 Samuel 18:12). The Hebrew word "tsalach" (צָלַח) for "succeed" implies prospering or thriving under divine favor. 5. Saul's Deceptive Offer of Marriage Saul offers his daughter Merab to David, hoping to ensnare him, but she is given to another man (1 Samuel 18:17-19). Saul's deceitful intentions are evident in the Hebrew word "nashah" (נָשָׁא), meaning to deceive or lead astray. 6. Michal's Love for David Saul's daughter Michal loves David, and Saul sees this as an opportunity to trap David by making him his son-in-law (1 Samuel 18:20-21). The Hebrew root "ahav" (אָהַב) for "love" indicates genuine affection. 7. David's Bride Price and Victory over the Philistines Saul demands a bride price of a hundred Philistine foreskins, hoping David will fall in battle. Instead, David brings back double the amount, securing his marriage to Michal (1 Samuel 18:25-27). The Hebrew "mohar" (מֹהַר) for "bride price" reflects the cultural practice of a dowry. 8. Saul's Growing Fear of David Saul becomes increasingly afraid of David, recognizing that "the LORD was with David but had departed from Saul" (1 Samuel 18:28). The Hebrew "yare" (יָרֵא) for "fear" conveys a deep, reverential fear or dread. 9. David's Esteem Among the People David's reputation continues to grow, and he becomes highly esteemed among the Israelites and Saul's servants (1 Samuel 18:30). The Hebrew "yakar" (יָקַר) for "esteemed" suggests being valued or honored. Topics 1. Jonathan and David's CovenantJonathan, the son of King Saul, forms a deep bond with David, leading to a covenant between them. This covenant is marked by Jonathan giving David his robe, armor, sword, bow, and belt, symbolizing a transfer of loyalty and support (1 Samuel 18:1-4). The Hebrew word for "covenant" (בְּרִית, ^berit^) signifies a solemn agreement or promise, highlighting the seriousness of their relationship. 2. David's Success and Saul's Jealousy David's military successes earn him favor among the people and Saul's servants, but also incite Saul's jealousy. The women sing, "Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands" (1 Samuel 18:7), which angers Saul and causes him to view David as a threat. The Hebrew root for "jealousy" (קָנָא, ^qana^) reflects an intense emotional response, often leading to destructive behavior. 3. Saul's Attempt to Kill David Saul's jealousy turns into murderous intent as he tries to kill David with a spear while David is playing the harp (1 Samuel 18:10-11). The Hebrew verb used for "hurled" (וַיָּטֶל, ^vayatel^) indicates a deliberate and forceful action, underscoring Saul's growing hostility. 4. David's Continued Success and Saul's Fear Despite Saul's attempts to harm him, David continues to succeed in his endeavors, which only increases Saul's fear of him. The text notes, "David was prospering in all his ways, for the LORD was with him" (1 Samuel 18:14). The Hebrew word for "prospering" (מַשְׂכִּיל, ^maskil^) implies wisdom and success, often associated with divine favor. 5. Saul's Schemes to Entrap David Saul devises a plan to have David killed by the Philistines by offering his daughter Michal in marriage, requiring David to bring back a dowry of Philistine foreskins (1 Samuel 18:17-25). Saul's intention is to have David fall by the hand of the Philistines, reflecting his cunning and deceitful nature. 6. David Marries Michal David fulfills Saul's requirement and marries Michal, Saul's daughter, further solidifying his position within the royal family (1 Samuel 18:27). The Hebrew term for "love" (אָהַב, ^ahav^) used to describe Michal's feelings for David indicates a deep affection, which plays a significant role in the unfolding narrative. 7. Saul's Growing Fear and Enmity Saul's fear of David intensifies as he realizes that the LORD is with David and that Michal loves him. Saul becomes David's enemy continually (1 Samuel 18:28-29). The Hebrew word for "enemy" (אוֹיֵב, ^oyev^) denotes an adversary or foe, highlighting the deepening conflict between Saul and David. 8. David's Reputation and Leadership David's reputation continues to grow as he leads his men successfully against the Philistines, earning the respect and admiration of the people (1 Samuel 18:30). The Hebrew root for "wisely" (שָׂכַל, ^sakal^) in describing David's behavior suggests prudence and insight, qualities that contribute to his rising prominence. Themes 1. Friendship and Covenant LoyaltyThe deep friendship between David and Jonathan is a central theme in 1 Samuel 18. Jonathan's soul is described as being "knit" to David's, and he makes a covenant with David, signifying loyalty and love (1 Samuel 18:1-3). The Hebrew word for "knit" (קָשַׁר, qashar) implies a strong, binding connection, highlighting the depth of their bond. 2. Jealousy and Fear Saul's jealousy and fear of David become evident as David gains favor with the people and the Lord. Saul's anger is kindled when he hears the women singing, "Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands" (1 Samuel 18:7). The Hebrew word for jealousy (קִנְאָה, qinah) reflects an intense, consuming emotion that drives Saul's subsequent actions. 3. Divine Favor and Success David's success is attributed to the Lord's presence with him. The text repeatedly notes that "the LORD was with him" (1 Samuel 18:12, 14), indicating divine favor. The Hebrew word for "with" (עִם, im) suggests a close, accompanying presence, underscoring the source of David's success. 4. Political Maneuvering and Deception Saul's attempts to manipulate and harm David through deceitful means are a recurring theme. Saul offers his daughters in marriage to David, using them as a snare (1 Samuel 18:17, 21). The Hebrew root for "snare" (מוֹקֵשׁ, moqesh) conveys the idea of a trap, highlighting Saul's duplicitous intentions. 5. Public Acclaim and Popularity David's growing popularity among the people is contrasted with Saul's declining favor. The people love David, and he is successful in all his endeavors (1 Samuel 18:16, 30). The Hebrew word for "love" (אָהַב, ahav) indicates a deep affection and approval from the people, further isolating Saul. 6. Divine Protection and Providence Despite Saul's attempts to kill David, the Lord's protection over David is evident. Saul's plans are thwarted, and David continues to prosper (1 Samuel 18:11, 28). The theme of divine providence is underscored by the Hebrew understanding of God's sovereignty and protective care over His chosen ones. Answering Tough Questions 1. 1 Samuel 18:5–7: Did the women’s song about David killing “ten thousands” reflect historical reality or an exaggeration? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the friendship between David and Jonathan challenge your understanding of loyalty? 2. In what ways can we see God's favor in David's life in this chapter? 3. How does Saul's jealousy of David mirror modern-day scenarios? Can you think of any personal examples? 4. How did Saul's jealousy evolve into fear, and what does this tell us about the nature of envy? 5. How do you interpret Saul's attempts to harm David? 6. Discuss David's attitude towards Saul's hostility. How would you react in a similar situation today? 7. In what ways do you relate to David, Jonathan, and Saul's characters in this chapter? 8. How can you apply the lessons from David's and Jonathan's friendship in your own relationships? 9. What role does the people's praises play in fueling Saul's jealousy? 10. Saul used his own daughter Michal as bait in a trap for David. What does this reveal about his character? 11. How did God protect David in the face of Saul's envy and malicious intentions? 12. How can the story of Saul's jealousy towards David be a cautionary tale for us today? 13. How do you deal with jealousy or envy in your own life? 14. How does 1 Samuel 18 reflect the statement that “Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7)? 15. How does David's growing reputation among Israel and other nations parallel the growth of Christianity today? 16. In spite of repeated success, David remains humble. How can we practice humility in our victories today? 17. Saul’s paranoia led him to make irrational decisions. How can we guard our hearts and minds from paranoia? 18. Saul misused his position of power out of fear and jealousy. How can we use our positions responsibly today? 19. How does David’s faith in God impact his actions throughout the chapter? 20. Jonathan gave up his royal garments and weapons to David. What can we learn from his act of selflessness and surrender? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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