1 Samuel 19:13 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 19:13 mean?

1 Samuel 19:13 describes how Michal, David’s wife, took an image and placed it in David’s bed, using a pillow made of goats’ hair and covering it with a cloth to make it look like David was lying there. This was done to deceive those who were coming to capture David.

In this scene, Michal is trying to protect David from King Saul, who wants to kill him. She uses an “image” (likely a household idol or statue) and disguises it in the bed to buy David time to escape. The verse highlights Michal’s quick thinking and the danger David was in from Saul’s anger.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 19:13

• The word “image” is תְּרָפִים (terafim), which refers to household idols or figurines. Its use here suggests Michal used a life-sized or at least human-shaped object to mimic David’s presence in bed.
• The phrase “pillow of goats’ hair” uses the word כְּבִיר עִזִּים (k’vir izzim), meaning a cushion or woven pad made from goats’ hair. This detail adds realism to the disguise, as goats’ hair was commonly used for bedding.
• The word for “cloth” is בֶּגֶד (beged), meaning a garment or covering, which Michal used to complete the illusion of someone sleeping.

Why 1 Samuel 19:13 matters

• This verse clarifies that Michal was actively involved in helping David escape, showing her loyalty and resourcefulness.
• The mention of “terafim” (household idols) raises questions about the religious practices in Saul’s household, which some readers might overlook.
• The detail and care Michal takes in constructing the disguise highlights the seriousness of Saul’s intent to harm David and the real danger David faced.