1 Samuel 18:5-9

Saul's Jealousy of David. 1 Samuel 18:5-9

5 And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him, and behaved himself wisely: and Saul set him over the men of war, and he Was accepted in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul's servants.

6 And it came to pass as they came, when David was returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, that the women came out of all cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with tabrets, with joy, and with instruments of music,
7 And the women answered one another as they played, and said,

Saul hath slain his thousands,
and David his ten thousands.

8 And Saul was very wroth, and the saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom?

9 And Saul eyed David from that day and forward.

5.

What caused Saul's anger after David had defeated the Philistines? 1 Samuel 18:7-8

The eulogies of the women who greeted the returning army roused the jealousy of Saul. He therefore removed David from service near his person and appointed him over a band of soldiers in the field. David's activity and discretion were such that his hold on the people increased, which increased also Saul's jealousy. Michal, the younger daughter of Saul fell in love with David; and Saul made this an occasion for exposing David to new dangers. David's success in this instance added to the king's dislike, which became a settled hatred. At one point we are told of Saul's attempt to murder David. At another point, we are told of Saul's unfulfilled promise to give his older daughter to David. All these are but expressions of Saul's growing hatred.

6.

What is the meaning of Saul's eyeing David? 1 Samuel 18:9

Saul was so jealous of David that he kept him under constant surveillance. He was especially cognizant of all honors bestowed on him and heard with displeasure the songs that the women sang about David. From that day forward, Saul watched David's every move. He was evidently watching to see if he could find some flaw in him. Had David made a wrong step, Saul would have been quick to condemn him and perhaps dishonor him or even kill him. Each of David's victories must have brought added displeasure and jealousy for Saul. Every favor bestowed on David must have given him acute mental anguish. He was indeed filled with an evil spirit.