“And Ishbosheth sent, and took her from her husband, even from Phaltiel the son of Laish.”
Context:This verse is part of the account of the political and military struggles that took place after the death of Saul, the first king of Israel. Ishbosheth, one of Saul’s sons, had been made king over Israel by the northern tribes, while David was anointed as king by the tribe of Judah. In this particular passage, Ishbosheth sends for David’s wife, Michal, who had been given to him by Saul.
Historical Background:
- Saul’s Reign: Saul was the first king of Israel, chosen by God through the prophet Samuel. However, Saul proved to be disobedient to God’s commands, and as a result, God rejected him as king.
- David’s Anointing: David, a shepherd and musician, was anointed by Samuel as the future king of Israel while Saul was still alive. David gained popularity and favour through his victories over the Philistines.
- Rivalry between Saul’s House and David: After Saul’s death, there was a power struggle between Saul’s descendants, led by Ishbosheth, and David, who was recognized as king by the tribe of Judah.
Ishbosheth’s Actions:
- Sending for Michal: Ishbosheth sends messengers to bring David’s wife, Michal, back to him. Michal was originally given to David as a wife by Saul, but she had been taken from him and given to another man named Phaltiel.
- Political Implications: Ishbosheth’s action could be seen as an attempt to assert his authority and legitimacy as king by taking back a wife that was previously married to David, the anointed king.
Michal’s Story:
- Michal and David’s Marriage: Michal, Saul’s daughter, loved David and became his wife. However, due to Saul’s jealousy and fear of David’s rising popularity, he gave Michal to another man, Phaltiel.
- Michal’s Return: The text does not provide details about Michal’s response or feelings regarding being sent back to Ishbosheth. However, it is known that later, after David became the undisputed king, Michal was returned to him (2 Samuel 6:20‑23).
Lessons and Application:
- Political Ambition and God’s Sovereignty:The struggles for power and political maneuverings among the human leaders of Israel highlight the complex dynamics of human ambition and God’s sovereign purposes. Despite the actions of Ishbosheth and others, God’s plan to establish David as king remained intact.
- The Importance of Fidelity:The fact that Michal was taken from David and given to another man reveals the lack of fidelity and respect for marriage vows in the political maneuverings of that time. It reminds us of the importance of faithfulness in marriage and the consequences of disregarding those commitments.
- God’s Faithfulness:Throughout the challenges and conflicts, God remained faithful to His promises. Despite the difficulties faced by David, he eventually ascended to the throne and fulfilled God’s purposes for him.
This verse serves as a glimpse into the political struggles and personal relationships of the time. It also invites us to reflect on the broader themes of God’s sovereignty, human ambition, and the importance of fidelity in our own lives.
