1 Samuel 19:14
And when Saul sent messengers to take David, she said, He is sick.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּשְׁלַ֥ח
sent
H7971
וַיִּשְׁלַ֥ח
sent
Strong's:
H7971
Word #:
1 of 9
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
שָׁא֛וּל
And when Saul
H7586
שָׁא֛וּל
And when Saul
Strong's:
H7586
Word #:
2 of 9
shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites
מַלְאָכִ֖ים
messengers
H4397
מַלְאָכִ֖ים
messengers
Strong's:
H4397
Word #:
3 of 9
a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Historical Context
Illness exempted individuals from many obligations and restricted visitors. Royal messengers would hesitate to force entry to a sick chamber without explicit authorization. Michal's quick thinking exploited social conventions to delay the arrest.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you evaluate actions taken to protect the innocent in morally complex situations?
- What does Michal's choice reveal about the impact of Saul's violence on his family?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And when Saul sent messengers to take David, she said, He is sick.
Michal's lie - 'He is sick' (choleh) - bought precious time for David's escape. The simple declaration deflected immediate action, as entering a sick person's chamber risked both contagion and ceremonial defilement. Michal chose deception over obedience to her father, prioritizing David's life over filial loyalty. While Scripture records her lie without explicit approval, it demonstrates how Saul's violence corrupted family relationships, forcing his daughter into moral complexity. God often preserves His servants through imperfect human instruments.