1 Samuel 19:16
And when the messengers were come in, behold, there was an image in the bed, with a pillow of goates haire for his bolster. 1 Samuel 19:16 (KJV)
In order to understand the context of this verse, let us review the events leading up to it. In 1 Samuel 19 we see that Saul, the king of Israel, became jealous of David because of the increasing favour and success David enjoyed among the people. Saul sought to kill David and made several attempts on his life. Verses 11 and 14 record that Saul sent messengers to David’s house to watch him and to kill him in the morning.
David’s wife Michal, who was Saul’s daughter, warned him of the danger and helped him escape through a window. To deceive the messengers, Michal placed an image or idol in David’s bed, using a pillow made of goats’ hair as his bolster. The text makes clear that the use of an image here was not an act of worship but a ruse to buy time for David’s escape.
In ancient Israel it was common for households to keep small idols or statues associated with household gods, although the practice of idol worship is strictly prohibited in the Bible (Exodus 20:3‑6). The specific choice of a pillow of goats’ hair is noteworthy; goats’ hair was used in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings (Exodus 25:4; 26:7). By using such a pillow, Michal may have intended to make the deception appear convincing, perhaps suggesting that David was present and engaged in his religious duties.
This incident demonstrates the lengths to which Michal went to protect David. It also highlights the tension and conflict between Saul and David, as well as the resourcefulness and creativity displayed in evading Saul’s attempts on David’s life. From a broader perspective, the verse reminds us of the importance of trust and reliance on God’s providence even in dangerous circumstances. David’s life was in imminent danger, yet God protected him through Michal’s intervention and David’s quick thinking.
In conclusion, 1 Samuel 19:16 narrates how Michal deceived Saul’s messengers by placing an image in David’s bed and using a goats’ hair pillow as a bolster. This act was not an act of idol worship but a strategic ruse to facilitate David’s escape from Saul’s wrath. The passage serves as a reminder of God’s providence and the resourcefulness required to navigate perilous situations.
