1 Samuel 18:20

Authorized King James Version

And Michal Saul's daughter loved David: and they told Saul, and the thing pleased him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַתֶּֽאֱהַ֛ב
loved
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
#2
מִיכַ֥ל
And Michal
mikal, saul's daughter
#3
בַּת
daughter
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
#4
לְשָׁא֔וּל
Saul
shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites
#5
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
דָּוִ֑ד
David
david, the youngest son of jesse
#7
וַיַּגִּ֣דוּ
and they told
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
#8
לְשָׁא֔וּל
Saul
shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites
#9
וַיִּשַׁ֥ר
pleased
to be straight or even; figuratively, to be (causatively, to make) right, pleasant, prosperous
#10
הַדָּבָ֖ר
and the thing
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#11
בְּעֵינָֽיו׃
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing love fundamental to theology proper, revealing God's essential nature and character and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Samuel Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources