1 Samuel 18:5-9: Saul's Jealousy Toward David
The Rise of David's Popularity
In 1 Samuel 18:5-9, we see the beginning of Saul's jealousy toward David, which would eventually lead to a severe consequences. This passage is a pivotal moment in the story of David, as it marks the beginning of his rise to fame and Saul's descent into madness.
The Celebration of David's Victory
5 And it was so, whenever the spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and played it with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him.
After David's victory over Goliath, he became the center of attention in Israel. The people celebrated his victory by singing and dancing in the streets. Even Saul, who had been plagued by an evil spirit, was refreshed and freed from its grasp whenever David played his harp.
Saul's Jealousy Arises
6 When the woman came to Saul and told him, saying, In-quire, behold, the people come to anoint David king;
However, not everyone was pleased with David's newfound fame. Saul, who had once been the people's hero, began to feel threatened by David's rising popularity. He started to believe that the people were plotting to anoint David as king.
7 And it came to pass as they came, when David returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, that the women came out of all cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with tabrets, with joy, and with instruments of musick.
The people's celebration of David's victory only fueled Saul's jealousy. He saw how the women sang and danced in the streets, praising David's bravery, and it filled him with anger and resentment.
8 And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.
The people's praise of David was not limited to his victory over Goliath. They also compared his military prowess to Saul's, saying that David had slain ten thousands, while Saul had only slain thousands.
9 And Saul eyed David from that day and forward.
Saul's jealousy had reached a boiling point. From that day forward, he eyed David with suspicion and resentment, marking the beginning of a long and tumultuous period in their relationship.
In conclusion, 1 Samuel 18:5-9 sets the stage for the dramatic events that would unfold in the story of David and Saul. David's rise to fame and Saul's jealousy would lead to a series of conflicts that would change the course of their lives forever.
