2 Samuel 6:20

As soon as David returned home to bless his own household, Saul's daughter Michal came out to meet him. "How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today!" she said. "He has uncovered himself today in the sight of the maidservants of his subjects, like a vulgar person would do."

Study Bible

When David returned home to bless his own household
David's return home signifies a moment of personal and familial importance following a public religious event. In the context of 2 Samuel 6, David had just brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, a significant religious and national event. The act of blessing his household reflects the patriarchal role of the head of the family in ancient Israel, responsible for the spiritual well-being of his family. This mirrors the priestly blessing found in Numbers 6:24-26, emphasizing the importance of God's presence and favor in the home.

Saul’s daughter Michal came out to meet him
Michal, as Saul's daughter, represents a connection to the previous dynasty. Her actions and words are often seen as a reflection of her loyalty to her father's house rather than to David. This meeting outside the home suggests a confrontation, as it was customary for women to remain inside. Michal's lineage and her relationship with David are complex, marked by political alliances and personal strife, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:20-29 and 1 Samuel 19:11-17.

“How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today!” she said
Michal's words are laden with sarcasm. The term "distinguished" is used ironically, as she criticizes David's behavior during the procession of the Ark. This highlights the tension between royal dignity and religious fervor. The king's role was to uphold the honor of the nation, and Michal's critique suggests that David's actions were unbecoming of a king. This tension between royal protocol and spiritual expression is a recurring theme in the narratives of Israel's monarchy.

“He has uncovered himself today in the sight of the maidservants of his subjects”
Michal accuses David of exposing himself, which can be understood both literally and figuratively. The literal interpretation suggests a breach of decorum, while the figurative interpretation points to a loss of royal dignity. The mention of "maidservants" emphasizes the perceived inappropriateness of David's actions, as it was considered shameful for a king to appear undignified before the lower classes. This incident contrasts with the humility and vulnerability that David often displayed before God, as seen in Psalm 51.

like a vulgar person would do”
The term "vulgar" implies a lack of refinement or propriety, often associated with commoners or those outside the covenant community. Michal's comparison of David to a "vulgar person" underscores her disdain for his behavior, which she views as unbecoming of a king. This critique highlights the cultural expectations of kingship in ancient Israel, where the king was expected to embody the nation's ideals and maintain a certain level of decorum. David's actions, however, reflect a different understanding of kingship, one that prioritizes devotion to God over societal norms. This foreshadows the New Testament portrayal of Jesus, who often challenged social conventions in favor of spiritual truths.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, known for his heart for God and his leadership. In this passage, he is returning home after bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem.

2. Michal
The daughter of Saul and wife of David. She confronts David with sarcasm and disdain for his behavior during the celebration.

3. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence with His people. Its arrival in Jerusalem was a significant event.

4. Jerusalem
The city of David, where he brought the Ark, making it the religious and political center of Israel.

5. The Celebration
A joyous event where David danced before the Lord with all his might, wearing a linen ephod, which Michal perceived as undignified.

Teaching Points

The Heart of Worship
David's actions demonstrate that true worship is about the heart's posture before God, not outward appearances or societal expectations.

Misunderstanding Worship
Michal's reaction shows how worship can be misunderstood by those who do not share the same spiritual perspective or relationship with God.

The Cost of Disdain
Michal's disdain for David's worship had personal consequences, reminding us to be cautious about judging others' expressions of faith.

Joy in God's Presence
The celebration of the Ark's arrival teaches us the importance of rejoicing in God's presence and the freedom found in worship.

Balancing Dignity and Devotion
While worship should be reverent, it should also be genuine and heartfelt, even if it appears undignified to others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's expression of worship challenge our own perceptions of what is appropriate in worship today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is focused on God rather than the opinions of others, as seen in David's example?

3. How can Michal's reaction serve as a warning against judging others' expressions of faith and worship?

4. What parallels can we draw between David's celebration and the New Testament teachings on worship and joy in the Spirit?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of worship that balances reverence and joy, as demonstrated by David in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 15
Provides a parallel account of the Ark's arrival in Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of worship and the presence of God.

1 Samuel 18
Details the relationship between David and Michal, including her love for him and the political implications of their marriage.

Psalm 150
Encourages worship with music and dance, highlighting the appropriateness of David's actions in celebrating God's presence.

Ephesians 5:19-20
Encourages believers to speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, making music to the Lord, which aligns with David's expression of worship.