The narrative of Saul's attempts to kill David is a significant episode in the biblical account of the early monarchy in Israel, illustrating themes of jealousy, divine favor, and the providential protection of God's anointed. This account is primarily found in the First Book of Samuel, chapters 18 through 26, and it highlights the deteriorating relationship between King Saul and David, who would later become king.

Background

David, the youngest son of Jesse, rose to prominence after his victory over Goliath, the Philistine giant, as recorded in 1 Samuel 17. This victory brought David into the service of King Saul, where he initially found favor. David's success in battle and his growing popularity among the people, however, soon incited Saul's jealousy and fear. Saul recognized that "the LORD was with David but had departed from Saul" (1 Samuel 18:12), which exacerbated his insecurity about his kingdom.

Saul's Attempts on David's Life

1. The Spear Incident: Saul's first overt attempt to kill David occurred when an evil spirit from God came upon Saul as he was prophesying in his house. David was playing the harp to soothe Saul, but Saul, in a fit of rage, hurled his spear at David, intending to pin him to the wall. David evaded the attack twice (1 Samuel 18:10-11).

2. Marriage and Deception: Saul sought to ensnare David by offering his daughter Michal in marriage, hoping that the Philistines would kill David. Saul demanded a dowry of a hundred Philistine foreskins, thinking David would fall in battle. However, David succeeded and married Michal, further increasing Saul's fear (1 Samuel 18:20-29).

3. Michal's Intervention: Saul ordered his men to kill David in his bed, but Michal, David's wife, warned him and helped him escape through a window. She deceived the men by placing an idol in the bed, buying David time to flee (1 Samuel 19:11-17).

4. Jonathan's Advocacy: Jonathan, Saul's son and David's close friend, intervened on David's behalf. He spoke well of David to Saul, temporarily reconciling them. However, Saul's jealousy soon resurfaced, and he again sought David's life (1 Samuel 19:1-7).

5. Pursuit in the Wilderness: David fled to various locations, including Nob, Gath, and the wilderness of Ziph. Saul pursued him relentlessly, but David was protected by divine intervention and the loyalty of his followers. On two notable occasions, David had the opportunity to kill Saul but refrained, demonstrating his respect for Saul as the LORD's anointed (1 Samuel 24:6, 26:9).

Theological Significance

The account of Saul's attempts to kill David underscores the sovereignty of God in the affairs of men. Despite Saul's efforts, God's purpose for David's life prevailed. David's restraint in not killing Saul, even when given the chance, highlights his faith in God's timing and justice. This narrative also serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of jealousy and the importance of obedience to God's will.

Key Verses

· "Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with David but had departed from Saul." (1 Samuel 18:12)
· "The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD’s anointed, or lift my hand against him; for he is the LORD’s anointed." (1 Samuel 24:6)

This episode in David's life is a testament to his character and faith, setting the stage for his eventual rise to kingship and establishing a model of godly leadership and reliance on divine providence.