He took Jerusalem from the Jebusites by force and made it his capital (2 Samuel 5:1-16). And when she saw King David leaping and dancing before the Lord, she despised him in her heart. But lets start near the end of Michals story. Sheffield, England: 1991. The Women of the Bible Speak: The Wisdom of 16 Women and Their Lessons His next move is to go home and bless his household. Some manuscripts therefore read Merab in place of Michal, for Merab was the wife of Adriel. BibleProject on the App Store These two scenes, the only ones in which Michal plays an active role, are framed by scenes in which Michal is acted upon:1 Samuel 19,where she actively takes Davids part against her father Saul, is framed by scenes in which she is acted upon by her father(1 Sam 18:2029and 25:44); and Samuel 6, where she takes the part of her fathers house against her husband, David, is framed by scenes in which she is acted upon by her husband(2 Sam 3:13and 21:89). Livestream: Zambia Reformed Family Conference 2020. Much of Micahs book revolves around two significant predictions: one of judgment on Israel and Judah (Micah 1:13:12), the other of the restoration of Gods people in the millennial kingdom (4:15:15). With Gods strength, he defeats the enemy and his life as a soldier, a warrior begins. Lockyer's All the Women of the Bible - Michal . Even though he is now very much a stranger, David breaks up Michals marriage. Between Michal and RachelReflection of Misery. In Beit Mikra: Journal for the Study of the Bible and its World 48, 289-301. Its evident from the text that Saul was both mentally and emotionally unstable. In her spare time, you will find her in the kitchen or at her laptop, hoping to pen the next great novel. Or perhaps it was a strategic political move. Michal is identified as Sauls daughter, for she speaks as the representative of her fathers house, and, by doing so, forfeits her role in the house of King David. The festive day was the happiest in Davids life. Michal missed it, missed the celebration, missed the worship, missed the blessing because she seemed to be more concerned about what other people might think? Her remarks had to deflate Davids joy, collapse his enthusiasm. hero and King. <>/Metadata 149 0 R/ViewerPreferences 150 0 R>> If you remember when Goliath was threatening Israel, Saul offered his daughter in addition to great wealth and a tax break as the reward for killing Goliath. Much of Micahs indictment against Israel and Judah involves these nations injustice toward the lowlyunjust business dealings, robbery, mistreatment of women and children, and a government that lived in luxury off the hard work of its nations people. and kill David. a) She became David's wife (1SA 18:27). And when she saw King David leaping and dancing before the Lord, she despised him in her heart (2 Samuel 6:16). way they reacted to Sauls persecution (19:11-17). But Michelangelo saw something in that rock; by 1504 he had taken that rough piece of stone and transformed it into a masterpiece called David. Instead, David rebukes her and it pretty much seals their doomed union. The David stories alternate between a presentation of the private man and the public figure, so that in the end family affairs and affairs of state are intermingled, each having an effect (influence) upon the other.3 Adele Berlin. She was then used by her husband, as a means of escape from the clutches of the murderous Saul. 4 Lessons Michal Has for Building a Healthy Marriage The next time we see her with David things have dramatically changed in their marriage. Quick thinking on Michals part saved his life8. Michal, King David's First Wife - Learn Religions No doubt the memories of his first the story might have ended if only Michal had been a woman after Gods Michal lies to her father to conceal her involvement; that she took a great risk is indicated by the parallel to her brother Jonathan, whom Saul tries to kill for abetting David(1 Sam 20:3033). The Cross And Christs Suffering For Sins (1 Peter 3:18-22), 6. Who Is Anointed By God? <> In 1 Chronicles 15:29-- It states that "Michal" is Saul's daughter and that she saw King David out of a window and she despised him. L. Kachelman, Jr. may be reproducted for non-commercial purposes at no 2 Samuel 3:13-16 paints a very poignant picture of Michals husband following her. to the Kings palace. It is this same failing that is responsible for many marriages Rise Up, O Judge of the Earth. Teen shepherd boy defeats giant and wins hand of Princess Michal, daughter of King Saul. We know she had previously been in love with him. Saul is initially impressed with Davids skill so he says David you are going into the army soldier! He was not the kind of father to nurture his child in building a relationship with God. to another man as his wife (2 Sa 3:13-16). Their quarrel raises another important issue by repeatedly referring to the kingship: the rejection of the house of Saul in favor of the house of David. Then the Philistines attacked, and the Lord gave David the victory over themnot once, but twice (5:17-25). Women in Scripture. This bitterness would soon lead them into another What do I do about calling a priest father at my Catholic University? Saul is Israel's first king. Many who begin marriage with a strong faith and love for God This little plan of Michals was used of God for eternal purposes. She rescued the husband she loved from certain death. The Marital Problems Michal despised David (6:16). This is such a critical lesson we can learn from Michal. Many people do not look at that side. Sauls violence had Why Does God Compare Our Relationship with Him to That of a Bride and Groom? I grew sick of the way I would use words to hurt him and others. The Cross And Separation From The World (1 Peter 4:1-6), 7. Perhaps The great affection these newly weds shared is evident in the She has not seen his hand of provision. your first year. Micah stated in his introduction to the book that he prophesied during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah in Judah, failing to mention the simultaneous string of dishonorable kings that closed out the northern kingdom of Israel. Abigail stands out for a number of reasons. I know that seems confusing, but I will make it clear shortly. endobj Do not let mans misdeeds prevent you from seeing Gods goodness. News reached this ridicule gave David the insight to write Psalms 52:2; 57:4; 120:3. Just as it took years to chisel away at the rough edges of the marble to smooth the sculptures surface to perfection, there were also years of refining, testing, training for the man of God to be Gods King of Israel and our women of influence were part of Gods plan for David. Yet, the bible has recorded their names, and glimpses of their lives for a purpose. And theyre remarkably influential. Copyright 1999 by John This is a difficult switch for many people to make, but it is a necessary switch. Here was her husband, the king no less, divesting himself of his royal robes and wholeheartedly celebrating God. Is it really a mystery that she was not moved by watching him worship God? Its because only in his presence can our sinful nature and human failures be overwhelmed by his grace. Now Sauls daughter Michal was in love with David, and when they told Saul about it, he was pleased (1 Samuel 18:20). Look at the verse above and compare that to the way Michal is mentioned in the verse below. Help us elevate the voices of Jewish women. What Kind of Friend Was the Apostle Paul? Surrounding Micahs prophecy of Jesuss birth is one of the most lucid pictures of the worlds future under the reign of the Prince of Peace (5:5). David also gets help from the prophet Samuel and most importantly: God. This is critical to any marriage if it is going to be successful. But no man (or woman) could ever fully represent the greatness and purity and mystery of the God who created the heavens and the earth. is the strongest term in Hebrew that expresses contempt toward another. Michal is often regarded as the shrew who did not approve of Davids exuberant worship. 1) Merab, Michal's older sister, was offered to David as wife to in order to endanger him (1SA 18:17). N-Kt#+X]n'%aKVb/Xc2. Fragmented Women; Feminist (Sub)versions of Biblical Narratives. 2. Sheffield, England: 1991. Last thing we know about her, a tragic statement for her, living in her times. mi'-kal (mikhal, contracted from mikha'el, "Michael" (which see); Melchol): Saul's younger daughter (1 Samuel 14:49), who, falling in love with David after his victory over Goliath (1 Samuel 18:20), was at last, on the payment of double the dowry asked, married to him (1 Samuel 18:27).Her love was soon put to the test. The Cross And Unjust Suffering (1 Peter 2:19-25), Women of Influence Surrounding the Life of David, In the Bible we first meet David when the Lord sends the prophet Samuel on a mission to find and. Read the latest from JWA from your inbox. King David's Wives and Marriages in the Bible - Learn Religions A victim of infidelities. 3. Michal apparently did not understand Davids reasons for bringing the ark into Jerusalem. David did this because of the promise he had made to Jonathan in the Lord's name. While we are clear that Michal was in love with David, it is never mentioned that David was in love with Michal. son, but there would never again be the unity and allegiance that Saul When Saul discovered that Michal was in love with David, he offered her to David, but only after David delivered 100 Philistine foreskins. Such x\[o8~}X*bHN:vv-v8Mf.uj[EQ|B7etItuxP%kwY[j~xlyx7HFlwWDt.3Qf FY~?mk1rZu7y;;mt"7F-|xp&hKaM[ Klein, Lillian R. Michal, the Barren Wife. In A Feminist Companion to Samuel and Kings, second series, edited by Athalya Brenner, 37-46. They would have surely pierced my heart. Our job is to discover that purpose. When Saul in his jealousy sent for David, she was quick to discern . Then Michal took an idol and laid it on the bed, covering it with a garment and putting some goats hair at the head (1 Samuel 19:11-13). Stop again for just a moment. But God was someone she knew nothing about. 2 0 obj But Saul had given his daughter Michal, Davids wife, to Paltiel son of Laish, who was from Gallim (1 Samuel 25:44). How tragic to think that there are loving relationships in the Series: David - A Man After God's Own Heart: Part 5: When A Woman Loves A Man (Mother's Day . This was about the way she had been treated by David prior to this moment. The Bitter Michal. Many Christians have been de-spiritualized by this action. I had an annual physical recently. This is part of the reason that the ultimate redeemer of the Jewish people and the world will descend from Davids line- he will be Messiah son of David.2. As David becomes more successful, Saul becomes more jealous of him and this hatred forces David to flee and become a fugitive, running away from Sauls death threats. King Saul in the Historiography of Judah. Tissot Michal Watching David from a Window,18961902, byJames Tissot. In homes where joy ought to reign, many are filled during this period. David's marriage to Michal (17-30) I. Jonathan befriends David (1-4) Discussion Questions. David accepts, but on one condition. Although the statement that Michal loves David is the only time a woman is described as loving a man in the Bible, Michals stories are defined by the desires of the men around her, whether David or Saul. He wandered in the wilderness. . His heart yearns to bring the ark of God to Jerusalem. Truth: Our words have the power to help or harm. When you read this again, we see that David wanted Michal back. He likes the idea of being the kings son-in-law; and were sure Michal likes the deal. While David was playing the lyre, 10 Saul tried to pin him to the wall with his spear, but David eluded him as Saul drove the spear into the wall. a marriage becomes when love is absent. If there is only one lesson we can learn from Michal in the Bible, it is that true love is demonstrated by your actions. Summary of the Book of Micah. She was taken from a man who loved her and given to a man who didnt. We view David, on the other hand, as an icon of what worship should look like. However Sauls jealousy, fear, and a host of other complex evils led the Do you want to go deeper in your walk with the Lord but cant seem to overcome the stuff that keeps getting in the way? The story up to this point was nothing short of tragic. Michal serves as a warning against fixating on our suffering. 18:20 ). Thanks for the good work you do. I cant say this definitively, but it is food for thought. Michals appearances in 12 Samuel reflect her confinement as a woman caught in the fierce struggle over the kingship between her father, Saul, and her husband, David. A notable exception is Michals protest against Davids actions after Sauls death, which she deems vulgar. humility and pious enthusiasm as he joined with Israel to celebrate (2 These had seemed so small and insignificant. Here's a list of biblical womensome familiar, some notwhich can provide invaluable learning. . Love is not just about what you say with your mouth, but more importantly about what you do with your actions. As we mentioned earlier, even when David requested her back, it doesnt seem to come from a sense of love for her but because he had paid a price to get her. affection is being replaced by unforgiveness, self-centeredness, pride, He repented. David then returns and sends for Michal. Nothing really, he was covered, in a linen ephod, but he was not in his kingly robes and he was dancing in the streets. Exum, J. Cheryl. events have not yet occurred, we look forward to the millennial kingdom at some undetermined time in the future. 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 - Sermon Writer 1. Only be valiant for me and fight the LORD's battles." For Saul thought, "Let not my hand be against him, but let the hand of the Philistines be against him." And David said to Saul, "Who am I, and who are my relatives, my father's clan in Israel, that I should . In this story God used Michal to save His anointed future King David. Truth: Loving others well cooperates with Gods eternal purposes. This wasnt about Davids worship. [89] He had believed the human king was the ultimate authority and that everyone should honor him. Since David killed Goliath, Saul offered his older daughter Merab, but David did not feel worthy to be the kings son-in-law. As a child, you must also recognize that once married, your first obligation is to your spouse and not your parents. It appears to be quite evident that Paltiel loved Michal in a way that David didnt. Arise to help me; look on my plight! 2 We all stumble in many ways. She answered not so good. Surprised, I asked her why? This was about the way she had been treated. She has not been a part of the victories David accumulated from his reliance on God. So the king took Armoni and Mephibosheth, the two sons of Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, whom she bore to Saul; and the five sons of Michal the daughter of Saul, whom she brought up for Adriel the son of Barzillai the Meholathite (emphasis mine). What Does Michal Mean? Bible Definition and References She went from being in love with David to despising him. Tragedy and Biblical Narrative: Arrows of the Almighty. When he was established in Jerusalem, known as the City of David, when his army is off at war, David spies a beautiful woman named Bathsheba who is our third influential woman. After Saul was killed, his throne was passed on to his surviving met and married. So, lets look at the women surrounding the life of David, the man after Gods own heart. Davids rude reply is his only speech addressed to her in the narrative. Lets allow the words of Micah to break us out of our apathy about extending justice and kindness to others and press on toward a world the world and the other seeks God. Copyright 2023, Bible Study Tools. 31 Days of Women from Scripture: Day Thirteen: Lessons from Michal But rather than leave Gods people with the fear and sting of judgment, the book of Micah concludes with the prophets call By referring to Michal as the daughter of Saul (v. 16) the writer linked her attitude with her fathers. Was she happy with him? After that, things get messy. return of Michal to him (2 Sa 3:13). We will always fall short. When we focus on God and Gods glory, there is very little room for anything else. 11 Biblical Women We Can Learn From - Crosswalk.com David ended with a godly blessing for all the people, sent them away with take home boxes of more food. Women of Influence can affect their world, their loved ones, their neighbors, their workplace for good or bad. The book of Micah provides one of the most significant prophecies of Jesus Christ's birth in all the Old Testament, pointing some seven hundred years before Christ's birth to His birthplace of Bethlehem and to His eternal nature ( Micah 5:2 ). There seems to be only one fault that was responsible for the As you do this, that love continues to grow, helping you not just to start out in love but to stay in love throughout the years till death do you part. What was wrong with his clothes? At one time, having vented all the reproaches upon him that her Please note, our website requires JavaScript to be supported. Life of David Inductive Bible Study - 1 Samuel 18 - Study and Obey Sa 2:12ff). }GBu$*,H H*RAh#c*"!klwGIHNTIc5p;x 'P.zV5 8h.Cx'UdEW'$f~RqB`Y(;/+Mh7Y}(&6 Such an ending could They abandon us so we find worshiping impossible. Gd dispatched the prophet Samuel to Jesse 's house to anoint one of his sons future king of Israel. It starts as a fairytale romance. How does love turn to hurt? Fierce men conspire against me for no offense or sin of mine, Lord.4 I have done no wrong, yet they are ready to attack me. New York: 2000. 3 Lessons from Jochebed - Hebrews 12 Endurance Her father and her brother, Jonathan (Davids BFF), died the same day in battle (1 Sam 31). How about you? Michal is important in biblical history because she fell in love with David, even though her older sister, Merab, had been promised to David as a wife as a prize for killing Saul's enemies ( 1 Samuel 18:17 ). Her rebuke, accusing him of sexual vulgarity, gives vent to her anger over his treatment of her (it also isolates her from David and from the servant women she speaks of as witnessing his cavorting). When David fled from Sauls ambush, Michal was taken and given Whether you are married or thinking about getting married, you should do everything you can to make sure your spouse knows that you truly love them. He is the author ofThe Pursuit of Purpose which will help you understand how God leads you into his will. When Saul realized that the Lord was with David and that his daughter Michal loved David, Saul became still more afraid of him, and he remained his enemy the rest of his days (1 Samuel 18:28-29). Bath-shua ( Bathsheba) the daughter of Ammiel The Number, Location, and Mothers of David's Children David was married to Ahinoam, Abigail, Maacha, Haggith, Abital, and Eglah during the 7-1/2 years he reigned in Hebron as king of Judah. She is not part of the celebration; she is watching from a window; watching with disgust. They both want to protect David from their father, King Saul. THE CONTEXT: Following the deaths of Saul and his sons (1 Samuel 31; 2 Samuel 4), David became king over both Israel and Judah. stream Foolish during the separation. But we do know God was using her to accomplish His plans. Their love for their child was greater than the fear they had . Let us know. Bitterness I want that for my life, dont you? A good illustration is provided by an incident Gay rights are civil rights. But I demand one thing of you: Do not come into my presence unless you bring Michal daughter of Saul when you come to see me. Then David sent messengers to Ish-Bosheth son of Saul, demanding, Give me my wife Michal, whom I betrothed to myself for the price of a hundred Philistine foreskins (2 Samuel 3:13-14). together is replaced by resentment and bitterness. If you are in a relationship or considering getting married, then you may want to pay close attention to this article. Rejected. 2 Samuel 3:13-14 Good, said David. To blame God for mans shortcomings is almost equivalent to reducing God to an imperfect being. I Samuel 19:9-16 But an evil spirit from the Lord came on Saul as he was sitting in his house with his spear in his hand. In in any relationship (especially in the Lords Church) that parts because "Michal: Bible." For Saul said to himself, 'I will not raise . each one (18:10). the kingly garments for the dress of the ordinary citizen. Here are five lessons from Michal's bitterness. This one sentence, verse 20, drips with sarcasm, ridicule and criticism. Michal wanted the life of royalty; she wanted nothing to do This little escape saved the lineage of the Messiah. Michal had reckless words to David; words that pierced him like a sword. I Samuel 18:28-29 When Saul realized that the Lord was with David and that his daughter Michal loved David,29 Saul became still more afraid of him, and he remained his enemy the rest of his days. However, she made the right decision because she chose her husband. Resources. David Marries Michal - Then Saul said to David, "Here is my elder daughter Merab. The first lesson we learn from Michal is dont marry someone who is not in love with you. In her rage she ran Lockyer's All the Women of the Bible. We have seen from this story that there is never any sense or confirmation that David truly loved Michal. While parents still can play an important role, the role must change and can no longer be the primary relationship in your life. Michal was the wife who found herself in the kind of family feud that many women face, except that Michal's family feud was on a scale that determined the future of Israel. This romance ends in disaster. been promised Sauls daughter, Merab, as a reward for killing the giant. is to compromise Gods will. Alter, Robert. What is fascinating about the story of Michal is that we are certain that she was in love with David because the Bible tell us. I wonder what Michal was feeling when she said goodbye to her husband Paltiel? With that definition, everyone in this room is an influential person. So, the oldest daughter Merab is given to another man. Because it seems like David never gave that type of love to Michal, eventually over time she went from being in love with him to despising him. Some commentators take the presence of teraphim as a sign that Michal holds to false religious beliefs, but it should be noted that the teraphim are in Davids house. His expectations must have been high but they were about to be Michal represents many church women who are hurting, misunderstood and rejected. He does not attempt to provide for her or take her with him, though he arranges for his parents safety in Moab and has other wives with him in the wilderness and in the land of the Philistines. also disagree on values of living. All Israel was there, celebrating with David, except Michal. 10 Dr. Thomas Constable, Constables Notes, NET Bible Study Suite www.NetBible.org. Parents, teachers, friends? But there is more to the narrative that culminates in Michals rejection of David. Save 30%! David comes back with proof of not 100 but 200 dead Philistines that he has killed. But then, later, her harsh words, flowing from a hard heart could not be taken back. That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh (Genesis 2:24). Basic Books, 2011. ben Ayun, Chaya. On the one hand, the prophecies announce judgment upon Israel . Discover more resources related to Micah. Not just love that is received, but also love that is given. Scripture tells us in the procession there were hundreds of priests, musicians with harps, cymbals, lyres, singers, trumpets, elders of Israel. 1. Copyright 2023 The Gospel Coalition, INC. All Rights Reserved. an idol and claiming it was David sick in bed. I grew up in a Christian home where I felt loved and would always be taken care of, but at times the climate was critical and judgmental of others. But Michal, Davids wife, warned him, If you dont run for your life tonight, tomorrow youll be killed.12 So Michal let David down through a window, and he fled and escaped. differences were not that noticeable as they were dating, and planning 7 Larry R. Helyer, Hero and Heroine Narratives in the Old Testament (Southern Baptist Journal of Theology, Vol. In this sequence, God reminds the people of His good works on their behalf, how He cared for them while they cared only for themselves. After ten long years The love story of David and Michal, the daughter of Saul, a This wasnt about Davids worship. happened because one loved God and the other loved the world. Michal is on her way back to David. Her character shows us that women of God can be humble, wise, and diplomatic. Two young lovers, multiple conflicts, intrigue, emotional peaks and valleys, danger, etc., all are a part of this narrative. was marked with superstition, formality, and coldness. of this escape in Psalm 59. In hope that David would be killed in the act, Saul offered his daughter Michal to David for the dowry of 100 killed . endobj Bible Lessons from Abigail, Bathsheba and Michal Abigail, Bathsheba and Michal were three of King David's wives. Michal at the Window: 5 Lessons from a Bitter Woman Standing at her window, looking down at David being undignified, Michal had every reason to be bitter. However, it doesnt seem to be motivated by love, but because of the price he paid for her. a3&"<>iL d_iPp\YUj[) _z#=K.eW=C[x\$?qM7%+@i;icNh~ 6~ |6z^%_ d\/ :W {R>iWSL 0\!p;M)n.=Zg0>BAp#3 bHA6cHX;Bg`*nUv#mg)` It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of ones life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. The Pursuit of Victory: How To Conquer Your Greatest Challenges and Win In Your Christian Life. Consider the various lessons we can learn from Jonathan's life . If you take away anything from Michals story, perhaps it will be this: Lynne is a member of Christ Church Midrand, Johannesburg, South Africa and serves within the Support Ministries Team in Griefshare. upstairs and emptied a pitcher of water upon his head. God has created us, as women, all of us, with purpose and the ability to affect our world for good or bad. Life of David: 11. Biblical art takes the story I read in Scripture and makes it real for me. but is necessary theologically, for Gods rejection of Saul precluded a descendant of his ever ruling over Israel. dashed to pieces. fury could suggest, Socrates went out and sat on his front steps. Dont just receive love, make sure you give it back demonstrated by what you say and do. Does God Really Work All Things Together for Good? PDF LIFE LESSONS FROM THE LADIES Michal: From Princess to Pawn: Lesson 11 Women of the Bible - Michal 1SA 18:17 "Saul said to David, 'Here is my older daughter Merab. For a brooding history linked her to this man, celebrating wildly in the streets. took the place of affection. I sensed God was saying to me: He is right and you need to really love this person. The Art of Biblical Narrative, 118-123. Exum, J. Cheryl. In Gods presence bitterness and scorn fade, to be replaced by peace and joy. Then Abner said to him, Go back home! So, he went back. Its at the end of his life that we meet the fourth woman, Abishag. She is a bookworm who loves to write. Before we look at the women, lets look at David. David and Michal are married, both for the first time. Before we leave this story, to get some insight into Davids thinking, we need to look at Psalm 59. Most of us dont decide daily to cut people down or find ways to carry out injustice. But David then abandoned Michal. themselves to a mutual love, yet they are pressing toward an eternity of These Another saved his career and reputation; one saved the Kingdom and the last woman saved him from pain and loneliness in his latter days. Thus, in the end, this is no fairytale romance. People hurt us so we turn away from God. So, what is the lesson we can learn from Michal in this aspect of her life? But the king protected Jonathan's son Mephibosheth. Let the Philistines do that!, Saul was hoping the Philistines would kill David and that would be the end of it.