This verse describes the fulfillment of a deal David struck with King Saul in order to marry Saul's daughter, Michal. Let's break it down:
"David arose and went, he and his men, and killed two hundred men of the Philistines.": Saul had originally demanded a dowry of 100 Philistine foreskins as payment for Michal's hand in marriage. This was Saul's attempt to get David killed by the Philistines, since they were enemies of Israel. Instead, David successfully led his men to kill 200 Philistines, exceeding the requirement. This demonstrates David's military prowess and favor with God.
"Then David brought their foreskins, and they gave them in full number to the king...": David presented the required proof (foreskins) to King Saul. This act served as concrete evidence of David's victory over the Philistines and, importantly, fulfilled the agreement made with Saul.
"...that he might be the king’s son-in-law. Then Saul gave him Michal his daughter as wife.": With the dowry paid in full, Saul was obligated to keep his promise. David became Saul's son-in-law by marrying Michal. This solidified David's position within the royal family and increased his standing in Israel.
In summary, the verse highlights:
David's bravery and military success: He willingly faced danger and defeated the Philistines, surpassing the king's expectation.
Saul's manipulative intentions backfiring: Saul intended for David to be killed, but David's success only served to elevate him.
The fulfillment of a bargain: The verse underscores the cultural context of dowries and arranged marriages in ancient Israel. It shows the fulfillment of an agreement based on a violent and unusual dowry.
David's rise in status: Marrying Michal brought David closer to the throne, although it was an uneasy alliance given Saul's growing jealousy and distrust.
The verse is part of a larger narrative that illustrates the complex relationship between David and Saul, marked by respect, jealousy, and ultimately, conflict. It is also a reminder of the violent realities of the time.
This verse describes the fulfillment of a deal David struck with King Saul in order to marry Saul's daughter, Michal. Let's break it down:
"David arose and went, he and his men, and killed two hundred men of the Philistines.": Saul had originally demanded a dowry of 100 Philistine foreskins as payment for Michal's hand in marriage. This was Saul's attempt to get David killed by the Philistines, since they were enemies of Israel. Instead, David successfully led his men to kill 200 Philistines, exceeding the requirement. This demonstrates David's military prowess and favor with God.
"Then David brought their foreskins, and they gave them in full number to the king...": David presented the required proof (foreskins) to King Saul. This act served as concrete evidence of David's victory over the Philistines and, importantly, fulfilled the agreement made with Saul.
"...that he might be the king’s son-in-law. Then Saul gave him Michal his daughter as wife.": With the dowry paid in full, Saul was obligated to keep his promise. David became Saul's son-in-law by marrying Michal. This solidified David's position within the royal family and increased his standing in Israel.
In summary, the verse highlights:
David's bravery and military success: He willingly faced danger and defeated the Philistines, surpassing the king's expectation.
Saul's manipulative intentions backfiring: Saul intended for David to be killed, but David's success only served to elevate him.
The fulfillment of a bargain: The verse underscores the cultural context of dowries and arranged marriages in ancient Israel. It shows the fulfillment of an agreement based on a violent and unusual dowry.
David's rise in status: Marrying Michal brought David closer to the throne, although it was an uneasy alliance given Saul's growing jealousy and distrust.
The verse is part of a larger narrative that illustrates the complex relationship between David and Saul, marked by respect, jealousy, and ultimately, conflict. It is also a reminder of the violent realities of the time.