1 Sa. 18: Saul Wants David Dead

1 Samuel 18:8 "Saul was very angry; this refrain galled him. 'They have credited David with tens of thousands," he thought, "but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?'"

I suppose its modern cynicism that makes me raise an eyebrow at Jonathan's friendship with David. It just reads in kind of a fruity way. When Jonathan meets David, he basically takes off his clothes and gives them to him. Sort of odd. Also, not something I want to believe about the two men whose namesake I bear. Can they just be good friends? Is it possible for two dudes to be really close, loving friends without the spectre of being homosexuals, something clearly forbidden in previous chapters? But that's the reaction I've been conditioned for. Too bad.

Saul begins to resent David's military victories, commissioned by himself, and granted by God. David keeps his faith, and this pleases God to keep giving David the victory. Songs are sung elevating David's prowess above Saul's, and in spite of David's calming presence in the king's court, Saul attempts twice to spear David to the wall.

So, Saul, unable to rid himself of David, continues to send him to war and make seemingly unreasonable demands on him, hoping the Philistines will kill him. Including bringing back 200 Philistine Phoreskins, the requirement being 100. Friggin' gross. He also throws in his daughter, Merab, as a prize if he keeps going to war. David finds it all very pretentious...as though someone had been tipping him to Saul's intentions...David refuses Merab, and eventually marries Michal.

Saul knew God was with David. Is there anything more disheartening than knowing, realizing that God has left you? No small wonder Saul would try anything to endanger or kill David.