David’s Deliverance: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on 1 Samuel 19

Executive Summary

1 Samuel 19 unveils a dark chapter in the saga of Saul and David, a stark contrast between divine favor and human jealousy. Saul, consumed by paranoia and malice, repeatedly attempts to murder David, despite Jonathan’s fervent intercession. The chapter highlights the themes of betrayal, divine protection, and the enduring power of faith in the face of adversity. Through Jonathan’s loyalty and Michal’s quick thinking, David escapes Saul’s wrath, demonstrating God’s unwavering commitment to His chosen servant. This narrative is a powerful reminder of the spiritual battles we face, the importance of unwavering faith, and the assurance that God is always with us, even in the darkest of times. We see, in David’s plight, a reflection of Christ’s persecution and the trials faced by His Church. Ultimately, this chapter reminds us that even in moments of intense persecution, God’s will prevails, and His chosen ones will be delivered.

In this critical juncture in their relationship, David’s Deliverance from Saul’s vengeful pursuit serves as a profound lesson in trusting in God’s unwavering protection. We delve into the intricate layers of loyalty, betrayal, and divine intervention that shape this narrative. Each verse offers a unique lens through which we can examine our own faith, resilience, and relationship with God amidst trials.

Commentary Sections

1 Samuel 19:1 (KJV)

KJV: And Saul spake to Jonathan his son, and to all his servants, that they should kill David.

NKJV: So Saul spoke to Jonathan his son and to all his servants, that they should kill David.

Saul, now completely overtaken by jealousy and fear, explicitly commands his own son, Jonathan, and his servants to assassinate David. This marks a dramatic escalation in Saul’s animosity. He is no longer acting out of impulse, but rather a premeditated plan of murder. This command is not only a violation of the oath he swore to David but also a corruption of his authority as king. We see the destructive power of unchecked envy and its ability to warp even the closest relationships. Consider this: the very king who benefited from David’s courage and skill now seeks his demise. This mirrors the betrayal Christ faced, even from those closest to him.

Spiritual Application: We are called to examine our own hearts, ensuring that envy and jealousy do not take root. Just as Saul’s envy poisoned his relationship with David and drove him to sinful actions, these negative emotions can hinder our spiritual growth and damage our relationships with others. We must actively cultivate love, gratitude, and humility to combat these destructive forces.

1 Samuel 19:2 (KJV)

KJV: But Jonathan Saul’s son delighted much in David: and Jonathan told David, saying, Saul my father seeketh to kill thee: now therefore, I pray thee, take heed to thyself until the morning, and abide in a secret place, and hide thyself:

NKJV: But Jonathan, Saul’s son, delighted much in David. So Jonathan told David, saying, “My father Saul seeks to kill you. Therefore please be on your guard until morning, and stay in a secret place and hide.”

Jonathan, in stark contrast to his father, demonstrates unwavering loyalty and love for David. Despite being the heir apparent to the throne, he places his friendship with David above his own ambition. Jonathan bravely warns David of Saul’s murderous intentions, urging him to seek safety. This act of selflessness and courage foreshadows the ultimate act of love and sacrifice demonstrated by Christ. Jonathan’s actions can be seen as a type of “intercession,” mirroring Christ’s intercession for us before the Father.

Patristic Insight: St. Basil the Great, in his homilies, often speaks of the importance of true friendship and the virtues of loyalty and selflessness. While not directly commenting on this passage, his teachings resonate strongly with Jonathan’s character. He highlights that true friendship is rooted in virtue and a shared love of God. “Ἡ φιλία οὖν ἡ ἀληθὴς, ἐν τῇ ὁμοψυχίᾳ τῶν ἀρετῶν ἔγκειται” (True friendship, therefore, lies in the harmony of virtues). (St. Basil, *Homiliae*, PG 29, 353).

Spiritual Application: We are called to be like Jonathan, standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular. True friendship is not merely based on convenience or personal gain, but on mutual respect, love, and a commitment to support one another in the pursuit of righteousness. We should emulate Jonathan’s courage by defending those who are unjustly persecuted and speaking truth to power.

1 Samuel 19:3-4 (KJV)

KJV: And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto him, Let not the king sin against his servant, against David; because he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works have been to thee-ward very good: For he did put his life in his hand, and slew the Philistine, and the Lord wrought a great salvation for all Israel: thou sawest it, and didst rejoice: wherefore then wilt thou sin against innocent blood, to slay David without a cause?

NKJV: Thus Jonathan spoke well of David to Saul his father, and said to him, “Let not the king sin against his servant, against David, because he has not sinned against you, and because his works have been very good toward you. For he took his life in his hands and killed the Philistine, and the Lord brought about a great deliverance for all Israel. You saw it and rejoiced. Why then will you sin against innocent blood, to kill David without a cause?”

Jonathan bravely confronts his father, appealing to his conscience and reminding him of David’s past service and loyalty. He argues that David has not sinned against Saul and that his actions have only benefited Israel. He uses logic and reason to try and dissuade Saul from his murderous intent. This passage highlights the importance of speaking truth to power and advocating for justice, even when it is difficult. Jonathan, though a prince, humbly defends David, showcasing true humility and righteousness. Consider this also in the context of the early church fathers who would regularly rebuke emperors and rulers.

Spiritual Application: We are called to be peacemakers, seeking to resolve conflicts through dialogue and understanding. We should be willing to stand up for those who are unjustly accused or persecuted, even if it means risking our own comfort or safety. Jonathan’s example encourages us to use our voices to advocate for justice and to challenge those in positions of authority when they act unjustly.

1 Samuel 19:5 (KJV)

KJV: And Saul hearkened unto the voice of Jonathan: and Saul sware, As the Lord liveth, he shall not be slain.

NKJV: So Saul heeded the voice of Jonathan, and Saul swore, “As the Lord lives, he shall not be killed.”

For a brief moment, Jonathan’s intervention seems to succeed. Saul, swayed by his son’s words, makes a solemn oath, swearing “As the Lord liveth, he shall not be slain.” This oath, made in the name of God, should have been inviolable. However, as we will see, Saul’s words prove to be hollow. This verse provides a temporary reprieve, but it also foreshadows the brokenness of Saul’s character and his inability to keep his promises. It is a stark reminder of the unreliability of human words when not grounded in genuine repentance and a commitment to God’s will. The very phrase, “As the Lord Liveth”, is supposed to be the ultimate affirmation; and yet, Saul makes it so very shallow.

Spiritual Application: We must be careful about the promises we make, ensuring that we are committed to fulfilling them. Our words should be trustworthy and aligned with our actions. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of making promises lightly, especially those made in the name of God. We are called to be people of integrity, whose words are true and reliable.

1 Samuel 19:6-7 (KJV)

KJV: And Jonathan called David, and Jonathan shewed him all those things. And Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he was in his presence, as in times past. And there was war again: and David went out, and fought with the Philistines, and slew them with a great slaughter; and they fled from him.

NKJV: Then Jonathan called David and told him all these things. So Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he was in his presence as in times past. And there was war again; and David went out and fought with the Philistines, and struck them with a mighty blow, and they fled from him.

Jonathan, acting as a mediator, brings David back into Saul’s presence. For a time, it seems that reconciliation has been achieved. David resumes his duties, once again serving Saul and fighting against the Philistines. He continues to be successful in battle, driving back the enemies of Israel. This reinforces the idea that God’s blessing is upon David, even as Saul plots against him. The phrase “as in times past” is deeply poignant, reflecting the brokenness of their relationship and the impossibility of truly returning to what once was. Consider the urban setting and environmental conditions of this time: David was on the run for quite sometime. This section highlights the environmental hazards he had to endure, and the lack of security he experienced. But through it all, David remained faithful.

Spiritual Application: We should strive for reconciliation in our relationships, but we must also be aware that not all wounds can be fully healed. Even when we make an effort to forgive and reconcile, the scars of past hurts may remain. We must approach such situations with wisdom, discernment, and a reliance on God’s grace.

1 Samuel 19:9-10 (KJV)

KJV: And the evil spirit from the Lord was upon Saul, as he sat in his house with his javelin in his hand: and David played with his hand. And Saul sought to smite David even to the wall with the javelin; but he slipped away out of Saul’s presence, and he smote the javelin into the wall: and David fled, and escaped that night.

NKJV: Now the evil spirit from the Lord came upon Saul as he sat in his house with his spear in his hand. And David was playing music with his hand. Saul sought to pin David to the wall with the spear, but he slipped away from Saul’s presence; and he drove the spear into the wall. So David fled and escaped that night.

The evil spirit, sent by the Lord as a consequence of Saul’s disobedience, returns, intensifying his paranoia and driving him to another attempt on David’s life. While David is playing music, likely attempting to soothe Saul’s troubled mind, Saul hurls his javelin at him, seeking to pin him to the wall. David miraculously escapes, and this marks the final breaking point in their relationship. This passage underscores the importance of recognizing spiritual warfare and the influence of demonic forces on human behavior. It also highlights the protective hand of God, which shields David from Saul’s murderous rage. The imagery of the javelin being thrust into the wall is powerfully symbolic of Saul’s thwarted intentions and the futility of his attempts to resist God’s will. Consider the archaeological context of this passage. Javelins were not casually thrown. They were weapons used in combat, and that Saul would so casually throw it shows the depths of his depravity. Also, visit dohost.us to see what we can do for you!

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius, in his writings on the incarnation, often discusses the power of Christ to overcome demonic forces. He highlights that Christ’s victory over death and sin also extends to the realm of spiritual warfare. While he does not directly comment on this passage, his teachings provide a framework for understanding the presence of evil spirits and the need for divine protection. “διὰ γὰρ τὴν σάρκωσιν τοῦ Λόγου, ἡ νίκη κατὰ τοῦ διαβόλου ἐδωρήθη” (For through the incarnation of the Word, victory over the devil was granted). (St. Athanasius, *De Incarnatione*, PG 25, 192).

Spiritual Application: We must be vigilant in our spiritual lives, recognizing the reality of spiritual warfare and the influence of demonic forces. We should arm ourselves with prayer, fasting, and the sacraments, seeking God’s protection against evil. David’s miraculous escape reminds us that God is always with us, shielding us from harm and delivering us from danger. Just as David relied on God’s protection, we must also trust in His unwavering love and care.

1 Samuel 19:11-12 (KJV)

KJV: Saul also sent messengers unto David’s house, to watch him, and to slay him in the morning: and Michal David’s wife told him, saying, If thou save not thy life to night, to morrow thou shalt be slain. So Michal let David down through a window: and he went, and fled, and escaped.

NKJV: Saul also sent messengers to David’s house to watch him and kill him in the morning. And Michal, David’s wife, told him, saying, “If you do not save your life tonight, tomorrow you will be killed.” So Michal let David down through a window. And he went and fled and escaped.

Saul, no longer trusting in his own ability to capture David, sends messengers to David’s house to ambush him in the morning. Michal, David’s wife and Saul’s daughter, demonstrates remarkable courage and loyalty. She warns David of the impending danger and helps him escape through a window. This act of defiance against her own father highlights the power of love and loyalty, even in the face of familial conflict. Michal’s actions are reminiscent of Rahab, who protected the Israelite spies in Jericho (Joshua 2), risking her own life for the sake of God’s people. This escape is a significant moment, marking David’s transformation from a court musician and warrior to a fugitive, constantly on the run from Saul’s wrath.

Spiritual Application: We are called to be courageous in defending those who are unjustly persecuted, even if it means facing opposition or risking our own safety. Michal’s example reminds us that loyalty to God and to those He has placed in our lives should take precedence over familial or societal pressures. We must be willing to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular.

1 Samuel 19:13-17 (KJV)

KJV: And Michal took an image, and laid it in the bed, and put a pillow of goats’ hair for his bolster, and covered it with a cloth. And when Saul sent messengers to take David, she said, He is sick. And Saul sent the messengers again to see David, saying, Bring him up to me in the bed, that I may slay him. And when the messengers were come in, behold, there was an image in the bed, with a pillow of goats’ hair for his bolster. And Saul said unto Michal, Why hast thou deceived me so, and sent away mine enemy, that he is escaped? And Michal answered Saul, He said unto me, Let me go; why should I kill thee?

NKJV: And Michal took an idol and laid it in the bed, put a cover of goats’ hair for his head, and covered it with a cloth. When Saul sent messengers to take David, she said, “He is sick.” Then Saul sent the messengers again to see David, saying, “Bring him up to me in the bed, that I may kill him.” But when the messengers had come in, there was an idol in the bed, with a cover of goats’ hair for his head. And Saul said to Michal, “Why have you deceived me so, and sent away my enemy, that he has escaped?” So Michal answered Saul, “He said to me, ‘Let me go! Why should I kill you?’”

Michal deceives Saul’s messengers by placing an idol in David’s bed and claiming he is sick. This act of deception, while morally questionable, is born out of her love for David and her desire to protect him from her father’s murderous intentions. When Saul discovers the ruse, he confronts Michal, who defends her actions by claiming that David threatened to kill her if she did not help him escape. This passage raises complex ethical questions about the use of deception in situations of extreme danger. The use of an ‘image’ is particularly poignant. There is something very sad about Michal, Saul’s own daughter, having to deceive him with a false image, reminiscent of the false idols that Israel had also chased after.

Spiritual Application: While deception is generally condemned, this passage highlights the complexities of ethical decision-making in situations of extreme duress. Michal’s actions, driven by love and a desire to protect innocent life, can be seen as an act of mercy. This does not excuse the deception, but it provides a context for understanding her motivations. We are called to seek God’s guidance in all our decisions, striving to act with integrity and compassion, even in difficult circumstances.

1 Samuel 19:18-24 (KJV)

KJV: So David fled, and escaped, and came to Samuel to Ramah, and told him all that Saul had done to him. And he and Samuel went and dwelt in Naioth. And it was told Saul, saying, Behold, David is at Naioth in Ramah. And Saul sent messengers to take David: and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as appointed over them, the Spirit of God was upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied. And when it was told Saul, he sent other messengers, and they prophesied likewise. And Saul sent messengers again the third time, and they prophesied also. Then went he also to Ramah, and came to a great well that is in Sechu: and he asked and said, Where are Samuel and David? And one said, Behold, they be at Naioth in Ramah. And he went thither to Naioth in Ramah: and the Spirit of God was upon him also, and he went on, and prophesied, until he came to Naioth in Ramah. And he stripped off his clothes also, and prophesied before Samuel in like manner, and lay down naked all that day and all that night. Wherefore they say, Is Saul also among the prophets?

NKJV: So David fled and escaped, and went to Samuel at Ramah, and told him all that Saul had done to him. And he and Samuel went and stayed in Naioth. Now it was told Saul, saying, “Take note, David is at Naioth in Ramah!” Then Saul sent messengers to take David. And when they saw the group of prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as leader over them, the Spirit of God came upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied. And when they told Saul, he sent other messengers, and they prophesied likewise. Then Saul sent messengers again the third time, and they prophesied also. Then he also went to Ramah, and came to the great well that is at Sechu. So he asked, “Where are Samuel and David?” And someone said, “Indeed they are at Naioth in Ramah.” So he went there to Naioth in Ramah. Then the Spirit of God came upon him also, and he went on and prophesied until he came to Naioth in Ramah. And he also stripped off his clothes and prophesied before Samuel in like manner, and lay down naked all that day and all that night. Therefore they say, “Is Saul also among the prophets?”

David seeks refuge with Samuel at Ramah, seeking guidance and protection. Saul, upon learning of David’s whereabouts, sends messengers to capture him. However, each time Saul sends messengers, the Spirit of God comes upon them, causing them to prophesy, rendering them unable to carry out their mission. Finally, Saul himself goes to Ramah, but he too is overcome by the Spirit of God, prophesying and stripping off his clothes, lying naked all day and night. This passage demonstrates the overwhelming power of God and His ability to thwart the plans of those who oppose Him. Saul’s humiliating experience serves as a public display of his diminished authority and his inability to resist God’s will. The phrase “Is Saul also among the prophets?” becomes a proverb, highlighting the unexpected and ironic nature of Saul’s experience. This entire section serves as a divine interruption of Saul’s plans, showcasing God’s active involvement in protecting David and humbling Saul. It’s a powerful demonstration of divine intervention. The geographical shift from a city to the wilderness is also significant. It represents a shift away from Saul’s authority and closer to God’s presence.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentaries on the Old Testament, often speaks of the power of the Holy Spirit and the transformative effects of divine grace. He highlights that the Spirit of God can work in unexpected ways, even upon those who are opposed to Him. While he does not directly comment on this passage, his teachings provide a framework for understanding the events that unfold in 1 Samuel 19. “τὸ γὰρ Πνεῦμα τὸ Ἅγιον, δύναται καὶ τοὺς ἐχθροὺς μεταστρέφειν” (For the Holy Spirit is able to transform even enemies). (St. Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentarii in Prophetas Minores*, PG 71, 105).

Spiritual Application: We must recognize the sovereignty of God and His ability to work in mysterious ways. Even when we face opposition or persecution, we can trust that God is in control and that He will protect us. Saul’s experience reminds us that no one can ultimately resist God’s will. We should submit ourselves to His authority and seek His guidance in all our endeavors. This passage also highlights the importance of humility, as Saul’s pride and arrogance were ultimately exposed and humbled by God’s power.

Subtopic Sections

The Enduring Power of Loyalty

1 Samuel 19 showcases the profound impact of loyalty, particularly in the characters of Jonathan and Michal. Their unwavering support for David highlights the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.

• Jonathan’s Selflessness: He prioritizes his friendship with David over his own ambition.
• Michal’s Courage: She risks her life to protect her husband from her father’s wrath.
• Loyalty as a Virtue: This passage reinforces the importance of loyalty as a core virtue in our relationships.
• Standing for Truth: Jonathan and Michal demonstrate the importance of standing for truth and justice.
• Sacrificial Love: Their actions exemplify sacrificial love, putting the needs of others before their own.
• A Reflection of Christ: Their loyalty reflects Christ’s unwavering love and faithfulness to His followers.

The Destructive Nature of Envy

Saul’s actions are driven by unchecked envy and paranoia, leading him to make increasingly irrational and destructive decisions.

• Envy as a Poison: Envy poisons Saul’s heart and mind, blinding him to reason and justice.
• Irrational Behavior: His actions become increasingly irrational as he is consumed by jealousy.
• Broken Relationships: Envy destroys his relationships with David and Jonathan.
• Loss of Authority: His envy leads to a loss of authority and respect.
• Spiritual Blindness: Saul’s envy blinds him to God’s hand at work in David’s life.
• A Cautionary Tale: Saul’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked envy.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about 1 Samuel 19:

• Q: Why did Saul hate David so much?
  A: Saul’s hatred stemmed from envy and fear. He was jealous of David’s popularity and military success, fearing that David would usurp his throne.
• Q: What does Jonathan’s loyalty to David teach us?
  A: Jonathan’s loyalty teaches us the importance of true friendship and standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular.
• Q: Why did the Spirit of God come upon Saul’s messengers?
  A: The Spirit of God came upon Saul’s messengers as a demonstration of God’s power and His protection of David. It thwarted Saul’s plans and prevented him from harming God’s chosen servant.
• Q: Is it ever right to deceive someone, as Michal did?
  A: While deception is generally condemned, Michal’s actions were motivated by a desire to protect innocent life. This passage raises complex ethical questions about the use of deception in extreme circumstances.

Conclusion

David’s Deliverance from Saul’s relentless persecution is a testament to God’s unwavering protection and the power of faith in the face of adversity. The narrative highlights the contrasting characters of Saul, driven by envy and paranoia, and David, sustained by faith and divine favor. Jonathan’s loyalty and Michal’s courage underscore the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of danger. Saul’s humbling experience at Ramah demonstrates the futility of resisting God’s will. Ultimately, 1 Samuel 19 reminds us that God is always with us, shielding us from harm and delivering us from danger. It is a call to trust in His protection, to cultivate virtues like loyalty and courage, and to guard against the destructive forces of envy and jealousy. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we see in David’s story a prefigurement of Christ’s own suffering and ultimate triumph.

Tags

1 Samuel 19, Saul, David, Jonathan, Michal, Envy, Loyalty, Divine Protection, Prophecy, Coptic Orthodox, Biblical Commentary

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Explore David’s Deliverance in 1 Samuel 19: a Coptic Orthodox commentary on Saul’s jealousy, Jonathan’s loyalty, and God’s protection. Discover spiritual applications for modern life.