Saul, the first king of Israel, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the books of 1 Samuel. His relationship with David, the future king, is marked by jealousy, fear, and repeated attempts to entrap and eliminate him. Saul's schemes against David are a significant narrative that highlights themes of divine favor, human jealousy, and the providence of God.

Jealousy and Initial Attempts

Saul's animosity towards David began after David's victory over Goliath, which earned him widespread acclaim. The women of Israel sang, "Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands" (1 Samuel 18:7). This praise incited Saul's jealousy and fear, as he perceived David as a threat to his throne. The Bible records, "So Saul eyed David from that day forward" (1 Samuel 18:9).

Saul's initial attempts to harm David were indirect. He offered David his daughter Merab in marriage, hoping that David would be killed in battle against the Philistines (1 Samuel 18:17). However, David humbly declined, and Merab was given to another man.

Michal and the Bride Price

Saul's next scheme involved his younger daughter, Michal, who loved David. Saul saw this as an opportunity to ensnare David, thinking, "I will give her to him, that she may be a snare to him, and that the hand of the Philistines may be against him" (1 Samuel 18:21). Saul demanded a bride price of one hundred Philistine foreskins, hoping David would fall in battle. Instead, David succeeded and brought back double the required amount, marrying Michal and further solidifying his position.

Direct Attempts on David's Life

Saul's schemes escalated to direct attempts on David's life. He ordered his servants and even his son Jonathan to kill David (1 Samuel 19:1). However, Jonathan, who had formed a deep friendship with David, warned him of Saul's intentions, allowing David to escape.

Saul's own attempts to kill David were thwarted by divine intervention. On one occasion, while David played the harp to soothe Saul's troubled spirit, Saul hurled a spear at him, but David evaded it (1 Samuel 19:9-10). Saul's relentless pursuit continued, but each attempt was foiled, often through the loyalty and intervention of others, including Michal, who helped David escape through a window (1 Samuel 19:12).

Pursuit and Divine Protection

Saul's pursuit of David extended beyond the palace. He chased David into the wilderness, where David became a fugitive. Despite Saul's efforts, David was protected by God's providence. On several occasions, David had the opportunity to kill Saul but refrained, demonstrating his respect for Saul's position as the Lord's anointed (1 Samuel 24:6, 26:9).

Saul's schemes to entrap David ultimately highlight the futility of opposing God's chosen servant. Despite Saul's persistent efforts, David's life was preserved, and he continued to grow in favor with God and the people of Israel. Saul's tragic downfall serves as a cautionary tale of the destructive power of jealousy and the sovereignty of God's plans.