1 Samuel 18:21

"I will give her to David," Saul thought, "so that she may be a snare to him, and the hand of the Philistines may be against him." So Saul said to David, "For a second time now you can be my son-in-law."

Study Bible

I will give her to him
This phrase reveals King Saul's intention to use his daughter as a political tool. In the Hebrew context, marriage alliances were often used to secure political power or to manipulate situations. Saul's offer is not out of goodwill but a strategic move. The Hebrew word for "give" (נָתַן, natan) often implies a transfer of possession or responsibility, indicating Saul's view of his daughter as a means to an end rather than a beloved child.

so that she may be a snare to him
The word "snare" (מוֹקֵשׁ, moqesh) in Hebrew refers to a trap or a device meant to ensnare. Saul's intention is malicious; he hopes that his daughter will lead David into danger or downfall. This reflects Saul's growing jealousy and fear of David, who is gaining favor and success. The use of a familial relationship as a trap underscores the depth of Saul's desperation and moral decline.

and the hand of the Philistines may be against him
Saul's plan involves external enemies, the Philistines, who were a constant threat to Israel. The "hand" (יָד, yad) symbolizes power or control. Saul hopes that by marrying his daughter, David will be drawn into conflicts with the Philistines, leading to his demise. This reflects the historical context of ongoing battles between Israel and the Philistines, highlighting the political instability of the time.

So Saul said to David
This phrase marks a direct interaction between Saul and David. Saul's words are manipulative, cloaked in the guise of an offer. The Hebrew narrative often uses direct speech to reveal character intentions and dynamics. Here, Saul's duplicity is evident as he presents a dangerous opportunity as a gift.

Today you have a second opportunity
The phrase "second opportunity" suggests a previous offer or chance. Saul had earlier promised his elder daughter, Merab, to David, but reneged on that promise. This reflects Saul's unreliable nature and his attempts to control David's fate. The repetition of opportunity indicates Saul's persistence in his schemes.

to become my son-in-law
Becoming the king's son-in-law would elevate David's status and integrate him into the royal family. However, Saul's offer is not genuine; it is a calculated move to entrap David. The familial term "son-in-law" (חָתָן, chatan) is laden with irony, as Saul's intentions are anything but familial or loving. This highlights the tension between David's rising favor with God and the people, and Saul's deteriorating moral and spiritual state.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who becomes increasingly jealous and fearful of David's rising popularity and success.

2. David
A young shepherd anointed by God to be the future king of Israel, known for his faithfulness and bravery, particularly in defeating Goliath.

3. Michal
Saul's daughter, whom Saul offers to David as a wife, intending to use her as a snare.

4. Philistines
A perennial enemy of Israel, whom Saul hopes will be the downfall of David.

5. Marriage Proposal
Saul's offer of his daughter Michal to David, which is a strategic move rather than a genuine gesture of goodwill.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Manipulation
Saul's use of his daughter as a pawn highlights the destructive nature of manipulation and deceit. Believers are called to act with integrity and honesty, avoiding using others for selfish gain.

God's Sovereignty Amidst Human Schemes
Despite Saul's intentions, God's plan for David's life prevails. This reminds us that God's purposes cannot be thwarted by human schemes, and we can trust Him to work all things for good.

The Importance of Discernment
David's situation calls for discernment in relationships and alliances. Christians should seek God's wisdom in discerning the motives of others and making decisions that align with His will.

Faithfulness in Adversity
David's continued faithfulness, even when faced with Saul's plots, serves as an example of steadfastness. Believers are encouraged to remain faithful to God, even when facing trials and opposition.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's manipulation of his daughter Michal reflect the dangers of using relationships for personal gain? Can you identify similar situations in today's world?

2. In what ways does David's experience with Saul and Michal demonstrate the need for discernment in our relationships? How can we apply this in our own lives?

3. How does the account of David and Saul illustrate the concept of God's sovereignty over human plans? Can you think of a time when you saw God's plan prevail despite human intentions?

4. What can we learn from David's response to adversity and opposition? How can we apply his example of faithfulness in our own challenges?

5. How do the events in 1 Samuel 18:21 connect with the broader account of David's life and God's promises to him? How does this encourage you in your own walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:17
Earlier, Saul had offered his elder daughter Merab to David, with similar intentions of using her as a snare.

1 Samuel 19:11-17
Michal's loyalty to David is demonstrated when she helps him escape from Saul's attempt to kill him.

Psalm 59
Traditionally attributed to David during this period of Saul's pursuit, expressing trust in God's deliverance.

2 Samuel 3:13-14
David later demands Michal's return as his wife, indicating the complex nature of their relationship and political alliances.