13 And Michal took an image, [1] and laid it in the bed, and put a pillow of goats' hair for his bolster, and covered it with a cloth.

Other Translations of 1 Samuel 19:13

New International Version

13 Then Michal took an idol and laid it on the bed, covering it with a garment and putting some goats' hair at the head.

English Standard Version

13 Michal took an image and laid it on the bed and put a pillow of goats' hair at its head and covered it with the clothes.

The Message

13 Then Michal took a dummy god and put it in the bed, placed a wig of goat's hair on its head, and threw a quilt over it.

New King James Version

13 And Michal took an image and laid it in the bed, put a cover of goats' hair for his head, and covered it with clothes.

New Living Translation

13 Then she took an idol and put it in his bed, covered it with blankets, and put a cushion of goat's hair at its head.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:13

Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:11-24

(Read 1 Samuel 19:11-24)

Michal's stratagem to gain time till David got to a distance was allowable, but her falsehood had not even the plea of necessity to excuse it, and manifests that she was not influenced by the same spirit of piety which had dictated Jonathan's language to Saul. In flying to Samuel, David made God his refuge. Samuel, as a prophet, was best able to advise him what to do in this day of distress. He met with little rest or satisfaction in Saul's court, therefore went to seek it in Samuel's church. What little pleasure is to be had in this world, those have who live a life of communion with God; to that David returned in the time of trouble. So impatient was Saul after David's blood, so restless against him, that although baffled by one providence after another, he could not see that David was under the special protection of God. And when God will take this way to protect David, even Saul prophesies. Many have great gifts, yet no grace; they may prophesy in Christ's name, yet are disowned by him. Let us daily seek for renewing grace, which shall be in us as a well of water springing up into everlasting life. Let us cleave to truth and holiness with full purpose of heart. In every danger and trouble, let us seek protection, comfort, and direction in God's ordinances.