Michal, the daughter of King Saul and the first wife of David, is a figure whose relationship with David is marked by both love and conflict. Her contempt for David is most notably recorded in 2 Samuel 6:16-23, during the event of the Ark of the Covenant being brought to Jerusalem.

Background

Michal's early relationship with David began with love and admiration. She is introduced in 1 Samuel 18:20, where it is noted that she loved David. Saul, aware of her affection, used it as a political tool, offering her in marriage to David with the hope that she would be a snare to him (1 Samuel 18:21). Despite Saul's intentions, Michal's love for David was genuine, as evidenced by her actions in 1 Samuel 19:11-17, where she helps David escape from Saul's attempt on his life.

The Incident of Contempt

The incident of Michal's contempt occurs when David brings the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. David, filled with joy and reverence, dances before the LORD with all his might, wearing a linen ephod (2 Samuel 6:14). This act of worship is significant, as it demonstrates David's humility and devotion to God, prioritizing spiritual celebration over royal dignity.

Michal, observing from a window, despises David in her heart (2 Samuel 6:16). Her disdain is later verbalized when she confronts David, saying, "How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today, uncovering himself in the sight of the slave girls of his servants as any vulgar fellow would!" (2 Samuel 6:20). Michal's words reflect her concern for royal decorum and her perception of David's actions as unbecoming of a king.

David's Response

David's response to Michal is firm and reveals his priorities. He replies, "It was before the LORD, who chose me rather than your father or anyone from his house when he appointed me ruler over the LORD’s people Israel—I will celebrate before the LORD" (2 Samuel 6:21). David emphasizes that his actions were an expression of worship to God, who had chosen him as king. He further states, "I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes. But by these slave girls you spoke of, I will be held in honor" (2 Samuel 6:22). David's response underscores his willingness to humble himself for the sake of honoring God, contrasting with Michal's focus on human honor and dignity.

Consequences

The narrative concludes with a note on the consequences of Michal's contempt: "And Michal the daughter of Saul had no children to the day of her death" (2 Samuel 6:23). This detail is significant, as it implies a divine judgment on Michal, reflecting the seriousness of her disdain for David's worship and, by extension, her lack of reverence for God.

Theological Implications

Michal's contempt for David highlights the tension between human pride and divine worship. Her focus on royal dignity and social norms contrasts sharply with David's heart for God. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing spiritual devotion over worldly status and the potential consequences of failing to honor God.