Phalti, also known as Phaltiel, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the tumultuous events surrounding King David's rise to power. His account is intertwined with the complex relationships and political maneuvers of the time, particularly involving King Saul and David.

Biblical References:

Phalti is introduced in the First Book of Samuel. He is the son of Laish from Gallim, a town in the territory of Benjamin. His primary mention occurs in the narrative concerning Michal, the daughter of King Saul and the first wife of David. After David fled from Saul's court to escape the king's wrath, Saul gave Michal to Phalti as a wife. This act was likely intended to sever the bond between David and Saul's family, as Saul viewed David as a threat to his throne.

The relevant passage in 1 Samuel 25:44 states: "But Saul had given his daughter Michal, David’s wife, to Phalti son of Laish, who was from Gallim."

Later, after Saul's death and during the consolidation of David's kingship, David demanded the return of Michal as part of his negotiations with Abner, the commander of Saul's army. This demand is recorded in 2 Samuel 3:14-16 : "Then David sent messengers to say to Ish-bosheth son of Saul, 'Give me my wife Michal, whom I betrothed to myself for a hundred Philistine foreskins.' So Ish-bosheth sent and took her from her husband Paltiel son of Laish. Her husband followed her, weeping all the way to Bahurim. Then Abner said to him, 'Go back.' So he returned."

Historical and Theological Context:

Phalti's involvement in the biblical narrative highlights the political and personal complexities of the time. His marriage to Michal, though likely orchestrated by Saul for political reasons, appears to have been genuine on his part, as evidenced by his emotional response when Michal was taken from him. This episode underscores the personal cost of the political machinations surrounding the transition of power from Saul to David.

From a theological perspective, the account of Phalti and Michal serves to illustrate the divine favor and destiny of David. Despite human attempts to thwart God's plan, as seen in Saul's actions, God's purposes prevail. David's reclaiming of Michal can be seen as a restoration of what was rightfully his, in accordance with God's anointing of him as king.

Cultural and Literary Significance:

Phalti's brief but poignant appearance in the biblical text provides insight into the customs and societal norms of ancient Israel, particularly regarding marriage and political alliances. His account is a reminder of the personal sacrifices and emotional turmoil experienced by individuals caught in the larger narrative of God's unfolding plan for Israel.

In the broader literary context, Phalti's narrative contributes to the rich tapestry of the Davidic saga, offering a glimpse into the human dimensions of biblical history. His character, though not central, adds depth to the understanding of the era's social and political dynamics.Phalti

(my deliverance), the son of Laish of Gallim, to whom Saul gave Michal in marriage after his mad jealousy had driven David forth as an outlaw. (1 Samuel 25:4-1) In (2 Samuel 3:15) he is called PHALTIEL. With the exception of this brief mention of his name, and the touching little episode in (2 Samuel 3:16) nothing more is heard of Phalti. (B.C. 1061.)

Deliverance of the Lord, the son of Laish of Gallim (1 Samuel 25:44)= Phaltiel (2 Samuel 3:15). Michal, David's wife, was given to him. PHALTI

fal'-ti (palTi).>.

See PALTI.

6406. Palti -- "escape," two Israelites
... NASB Word Usage Palti (2). Palti, Phalti. From palat; delivered; Palti, the name
of two Israelites -- Palti, Phalti. see HEBREW palat. 6405, 6406. ...
/hebrew/6406.htm - 6k

How David, when He had Twice the Opportunity of Killing Saul did ...
... married from the city Abesar; for as to Michal, the daughter of king Saul, who had
been David's wife, her father had given her in marriage to Phalti, the son ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 13 how david when.htm

Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses.
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/of antichrist and his ruin .htm

Phalti (1 Occurrence)
... him. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. PHALTI. fal'-ti (palTi).>. See
PALTI. Multi-Version Concordance Phalti (1 Occurrence). 1 ...
/p/phalti.htm - 7k

Laish (8 Occurrences)
... It has been supposed to be the modern el-Isawiyeh, about a mile north-east of
Jerusalem. (3.) The father of Phalti (1 Samuel 25:44). Int. ...
/l/laish.htm - 10k

Gallim (2 Occurrences)
... Heaps, (1 Samuel 25:44; Isaiah 10:30). The native place of Phalti, to whom Michal
was given by Saul. It was probably in Benjamin, to the north of Jerusalem. ...
/g/gallim.htm - 8k

Michal (18 Occurrences)
... Meanwhile she was given in marriage to another man, Phalti or Phaltiel of Gallim
(1 Samuel 25:44), but David afterwards formally reclaimed her as his lawful ...
/m/michal.htm - 16k

Phalluites (1 Occurrence)

/p/phalluites.htm - 6k

Phaltiel (2 Occurrences)

/p/phaltiel.htm - 7k

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