1 Samuel 18:6-9

David’s popularity with the people 18:6-9

These verses show how David had captured the affection of many Israelites by his victory over Goliath. Successful military heroes still do so today. Notwithstanding David’s popularity, not everyone was ready to join David’s fan club, as the text proceeds to clarify. He became a controversial figure in Israel. Apparently Saul suspected that with such popularity David might attempt to overthrow his government. However, it was personal jealousy that took root in Saul’s mind and led to his downfall. The women’s song did not intend to insult Saul. It is typical Hebrew parallelism in which both heroes received honor for slaying multitudes of Israel’s enemies, albeit David received the higher commendation. While David’s actions pleased the people (1 Samuel 18:5), they displeased the king (1 Samuel 18:8). The problem was Saul’s desire to be popular with the people more than with God. Contrast humble John the Baptist, who wanted Jesus to receive more honor than himself (John 1:26-27; John 3:30).