June 11, 2025 • 25 mins
# 169 - David Escapes Saul - In this episode of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein, we follow David’s narrow escape from Saul’s growing wrath in 1 Samuel 19, as jealousy turns a king into a hunter and a palace into a trap. Amid betrayal, fear, and a desperate flight through the night, we explore what it means to trust God when safety disappears and sin threatens to consume everything in its path.
Episode 169 of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein is inspired by the Book of Joshua.
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For more information about Yael Eckstein and IFCJ visit https://www.ifcj.org/
Today's opening prayer is inspired by Psalm 56:3, “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you”
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Show Notes:
(0_:__) Intro with Yael Eckstein
(0_:__) David Escapes Saul
(__:__) Reflection with Yael Eckstein
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Previously on the chosen people.
Speaker 2 (00:03):
As you have torn my robe, so the Lord has
torn the kingdom from you. He will have it to another.
The Lord has already chosen him. He is a man
that seeks after the heart of God more than the heart.
Speaker 3 (00:19):
Of the people.
Speaker 1 (00:22):
They sang a song, one that rippled through the crowd
like wildfire. Saul has sain his thousands, but David his
ten thousands.
Speaker 2 (00:33):
He will take it from me, myke my kingdom, my throne,
my legacy. I will not let him. I will not
let him.
Speaker 1 (00:48):
Saul rose from his throne, the spear held firmly in
his grasp. David's eyes fluttered open, just as Saul whispered
under his breath in.
Speaker 2 (01:00):
Him to the wall.
Speaker 1 (01:04):
Saul was already reaching for a third spear when David
darted to the window.
Speaker 4 (01:10):
I hope we can put our disagreement yesterday behind us.
You and McCall shall be wet before God. You will
be made my son, and all the privileges of the
kingdom will be yours.
Speaker 1 (01:24):
Saul felt his crown grow heavier with every year. His
son loved David, his daughter loved David, and his people
love David. Soon they would love him enough to make
him king.
Speaker 5 (01:45):
Shallo my friends from here in the Holy Land of Israel.
I'm ya l Exstein with the International Fellowship of Christians
and Jews, and welcome to the Chosen People. Each day
we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible, stories
filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the meaning
of life. Through Israel story, we will find this truth
(02:07):
that we are all chosen for something great.
Speaker 6 (02:11):
So take a moment.
Speaker 5 (02:12):
Today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling extra grateful
for these stories, we would love it if you left
us a review. I read every single one of them,
and if you're interested in hearing more about the prophetic,
life saving work of the Fellowship, you can visit IFCJ
dot org. Let's begin.
Speaker 1 (02:34):
The torchlight flickered against Saul's face, casting jagged shadows across
the war room walls. His breath came hard and fast,
his chest rising like a bellow's. He towered over the table,
his fingers curled into fists against the wood around him.
His most trusted men stood silent, their faces grim.
Speaker 2 (02:59):
The unity of our nation is under attack.
Speaker 1 (03:03):
No one dared to move. The tapestry behind Saul hung
heavy with the weight of history, twelve tribes embroidered in
gold thread, a symbol of the nation he had been
chosen to rule. Saul turned, drew his dagger, and in
one violent motion, slashed the fabric.
Speaker 2 (03:23):
Down the middle.
Speaker 1 (03:24):
The sound of tearing cloth echoed like a war cry.
Speaker 2 (03:29):
Don't you see what he's doing? They chant his name
in the streets. They looked to him instead of me.
The people praise him as though he were the lord himself.
Speaker 1 (03:46):
Murmurs passed between the elders and generals. Some nodded, their
faces twisted with concern. Others shifted uncomfortably, exchanging wary glances.
Speaker 2 (03:58):
If they do not trust me over David, we will
have a civil war in our hands. He will revolt
when the moment is right, and when he does, the
kingdom will be split in two.
Speaker 1 (04:14):
Still, no one spoke. Jonathan stood at the back of
the room, half hidden in the shadows, his arms crossed
over his chest. He had heard his father's rants before,
but never like this. This was something darker, something dangerous.
He saw the madness creeping behind his father's eyes, twisting
(04:38):
his mind like a thorny vine. Saul was pacing now,
his dagger dancing between his fingers.
Speaker 2 (04:46):
It must be done quietly. If the people suspect me,
they will turn against me. We will, we will make
it look like an accident, or or perhaps the Philistines
could take the blame. I feel well placed rumors, and
the people will believe they assassinated their precious giant slayer.
Speaker 1 (05:06):
Jonathan's heart pounded. His father was going to kill David.
Jonathan forced his face into a mask of indifference, waiting, listening.
Saul's voice became a distant hum as his mind raced.
He needed to get out, needed to warn David before
(05:26):
the assassins could be sent. The moment came when Saul
turned to speak to one of his commanders. Jonathan didn't hesitate.
He slipped into the shadows, moving quickly through the halls
of the palace. If he was fast enough, he could
save David before it was too late. The stars stretched
(05:48):
wide and endless over Gibea. A cool breeze slipped through
the narrow window of David's room, rustling the linen drapes
before brushing against his cheek. He stirred, drawing the blankets
tighter around him, instinctively shifting closer to Michal. For the
first time in what felt like years, David allowed himself
(06:11):
a moment of peace. He had earned this, this bed,
this home, this wife, who slept soundly at his side.
His dreams were soft, wrapped in the memories of his boyhood,
rolling hills, green and boundless. And then a firm hand
clamped over his mouth. David's body tensed. His fingers shot
(06:36):
toward the dagger beneath his pillow, ready to plunge steel
into flesh. He twisted only for the moonlight to catch
a familiar face, Jonathan. Jonathan pressed a finger to his lips.
Michal stirred beside him, but did not wake. David exhaled, sharply,
setting the dagger down. He slipped from the bed without
(06:59):
a sound and careful not to rouse his wife, and
follow Jonathan outside.
Speaker 6 (07:05):
What's this about, Jonathan, You're in danger, little brother.
Speaker 3 (07:09):
My father seeks your life. It could be tonight, it
could be next week. But his mind is made up.
He means to kill you. He's possessed by jealousy and delusion.
Speaker 1 (07:20):
David's jaw tightened. He gave the smallest of nods. Jonathan
peered at David, sensing something wasn't right.
Speaker 3 (07:29):
You don't seem surprised. Is there something you're not telling me?
Speaker 6 (07:33):
Your father has already tried to kill me? What he
threw a spear at me? When he missed, he threw another.
I left before he could try a third.
Speaker 2 (07:45):
Why didn't you tell me.
Speaker 6 (07:47):
He's still my king? I have to give him the
benefit of the doubt.
Speaker 3 (07:52):
David, there's a line between loyalty and madness. You should
have told me. You should have told Michael.
Speaker 6 (08:01):
Soul is troubled. I didn't think he was out of hatred.
Shortly after his attempt on my life, he gave me
Michael's hand in marriage.
Speaker 3 (08:10):
You were wrong to give him that much grace. He's
not in his right mind.
Speaker 6 (08:14):
Are you in danger for telling me this? I don't
want you in trouble.
Speaker 3 (08:19):
You and I made a covenant that bond is stronger
than blood. I'll protect you.
Speaker 6 (08:25):
I swear I'll follow your lead.
Speaker 3 (08:28):
Stay hid, and tonight in the morning, I will go
out with my father into the fields. I will speak
well of you and test his heart. Let me be
your advocate.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
Michell, cold from inside, David, where'd you go? David smiled
at Jonathan, though there was sorrow behind it. He pulled
Jonathan into a firm embrace, holding him tightly.
Speaker 6 (08:52):
There are friends who stick closer than brothers.
Speaker 3 (08:55):
There are fools who walk willingly into the lion's dead.
Speaker 1 (08:58):
David gave a final nod before slipping back inside to Michele.
He reached for his dagger the moment he stepped through
the door, keeping it closer than ever. Jonathan disappeared into
the night, weaving through the palace gardens with quiet urgency.
The morning sun cast a golden glow over the fields
(09:21):
of Gibea, the wheat swaying gently in the breeze like
ripples across a vast sea. Jonathan walked the fields beside
his father, speaking of the kingdom of Battle, of their family.
Speaker 3 (09:36):
Father, there is a matter I wish to discuss. Oh,
speak your anger against David. I don't understand it. What
has he done to deserve your hatred?
Speaker 1 (09:47):
Saul stopped slowly. He turned to face his son, his
expression unreadable.
Speaker 2 (09:54):
It is not what he has done, Jonathan, It is
what he will do. The people praise him. They cheer
his name louder than mine. They whisper of him in
the streets, and sing songs of his victories. It is
only a matter of time before they seek to give
him the kingdom your your kingdom.
Speaker 3 (10:16):
It's God's kingdom, Father, not mine or yours.
Speaker 1 (10:20):
Soul scoffed and waved the correction away like an annoying fly.
Speaker 2 (10:25):
You don't understand, Jonathan, this is about establishing a stable lineage.
If any shepherd boy or peddler from the streets can
come and challenge the throne, this nation will never be
an established kingdom.
Speaker 3 (10:40):
He isn't some peddler, Father, He's the one who slew Goliath.
Speaker 1 (10:44):
Jonathan did not back down, Desperate to find reason with
his father.
Speaker 3 (10:49):
I beg you do not sin against your servant, David.
His hands are clean, his heart loyal. His deeds have
brought nothing but prosperity to this nation, prosperity to you.
Why would you strike down one whom God has chosen
to bless.
Speaker 1 (11:05):
Saul said nothing, his gaze locked on the ground beneath
his feet. He felt as though he were standing on
shifting sand, unsteady, off balance. His mind had not felt
clear in a very long time. He did not know
if it ever would again.
Speaker 2 (11:24):
You You are a wise man, my son, As the
Lord lives David shall not be harmed by my hand.
Speaker 1 (11:33):
Jonathan released a breath he had not realized he was holding.
That same day, Jonathan sought out David and told him
what had passed between him and the king. The relief
in David's eyes was clear, though caution still lingered behind them,
and for a time peace returned. David was restored to
(11:56):
Saul's court. He sat once more at the king's table,
partook in the feasts, and laughed with Jonathan as they
had before. He played his harp beside Saul's throne, the
melodies soothing the restless spirit of the king. It was
as if nothing had ever been wrong. David's fingers danced
(12:19):
along the strings of his harp, weaving a melody unlike
any he had played before. It climbed higher with each note,
rising and rising, like the wind before the breaking of dawn.
It was hope given sound, joy given breath, defiance of
darkness that could not be silenced. Saul loathed it. The
(12:45):
fire in the hearth flickered wildly as the king sat
upon his throne, his hand clenched around the shaft of
his spear. David did not sing this time. Lyrics were unnecessary,
but Saul fled in the space on his own. The
only words he could hear some were Saul has killed
(13:06):
his thousands and David his ten thousands. Saul's grip on
his spear tightened. The melody climbed, lifting higher. Refusing to
be dampened. Saul stood, his breath ragged, his fury tightening
around his throat like a noose. He could not bear it,
(13:26):
he would not bear it. David plucked the final note.
Speaker 3 (13:31):
Saul roared.
Speaker 1 (13:38):
The spear left his hand with a whistle, cutting through
the air like lightning, aimed straight for David's chest, but
the Shepherd had been waiting for this. He shifted to
the left, barely escaping it. The spear shot past his shoulder,
embedding itself into the seed of beam behind him. With
a deep shuddering thunk. Silence followed. David stood motionless, his
(14:04):
eyes locked onto the king. Saul's nostrils flared, his hands shaking,
his lips curling back in a snarl. He was not
a king at that moment. He was a beast, an animal, cornered,
desperate to destroy the thing that made him feel so small.
(14:24):
David had seen that look before, in the lion that
stole his lamb in the giant Goliath. The boy did
not hesitate. The moment Saul's hand twitched toward another spear,
David turned and fled. Saul's hatred had spilled over.
Speaker 3 (14:43):
Run you passard, Oh god Ward, You'll have no word
to calm.
Speaker 6 (14:53):
You'll be a fusion over this country.
Speaker 2 (14:57):
Her name will be a skirt you are, oh.
Speaker 1 (15:05):
David slammed the door behind him, breathless. The house was dark,
but Michal stirred from their bed, her eyes sharp with worry.
Speaker 3 (15:14):
What happened?
Speaker 1 (15:15):
David's hands shook as he ran them through his hair,
pulling it back tight.
Speaker 6 (15:22):
Your father has tried to kill me again again?
Speaker 3 (15:26):
What do you mean again?
Speaker 1 (15:28):
David fumbled through his chest of belongings and strapped Jonathan's
armor around his chest. He packed his robe and a
few daggers in a leather sack.
Speaker 6 (15:39):
The first time I thought it was rage, just an
outburst I forgave him. But no, now I know he
wants me dead. What did you do to make him
want to kill you?
Speaker 2 (15:53):
Nothing?
Speaker 6 (15:54):
I've been nothing but faithful to your father.
Speaker 2 (15:56):
You know that.
Speaker 1 (15:58):
Ah, I'm I'm not so sure, Michael.
Speaker 2 (16:03):
You know me do I.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
There was a sound in the distance. The two peered
through the night. Flickering torchlight wavered in the distance, shadows,
shifting men lurking just beyond the walls.
Speaker 6 (16:19):
Your father's man.
Speaker 3 (16:20):
You're waiting.
Speaker 6 (16:22):
They won't stripe now, They'll wait for dawn. When I
step out, and then, Michael, I refuse to fight them.
They're my countrymen, brothers in arms. I won't spill their blood,
not even to save my own.
Speaker 1 (16:35):
Michele paused, weighing every word. She was conflicted in her heart.
She knew David was innocent, but her life on the
run filled her with dread. Michele drew a deep breath
and grabbed David's face between her hands.
Speaker 3 (16:53):
Okay, okay, then listen to me.
Speaker 1 (16:57):
If you do not escape tonight will killed you. David
shook his head. He gripped her wrists, his touch firm
but pleading, Come with me, I love. Michal exhaled sharply,
frustration flashing in her eyes. She yanked away from his
(17:18):
grasp and snatched a sack, stuffing it with bread and
dried meat. No I can't, Michael, David hesitated, torn that
Michal's hands were swift fastening the sack and pressing it
into his arms.
Speaker 6 (17:38):
If I go with you, my father will think you
kidnapped me.
Speaker 1 (17:42):
She cupped his face again, softer this time, and kissed him,
a deep, desperate kiss, as if it would be their last.
Then she pulled away. Go David nodded silent. He slung
the sack over his shod shoulder, and together they fastened
a rope to the window. He climbed through, gripping tightly
(18:06):
as he lowered himself down into the darkness. The moment
his feet touched the ground, he was gone, swallowed by
the hills beyond the city. Michal lingered at the window,
watching the shadows until he disappeared. Then swiftly she moved.
(18:26):
She gathered pillows, arranging them beneath the blankets to mimic
a sleeping figure. She pulled Goat's fur over the top,
fashioning it to resemble David's hair, and then she climbed
into bed, her heart pounding in her throat, waiting. The
(18:46):
knock at the door was firm, deliberate. Michal sat upright
in bed, her breath caught in her throat.
Speaker 3 (18:55):
Who is it?
Speaker 1 (18:57):
She knew? On the other side of the door or
stood Abner, commander of her father's armies.
Speaker 3 (19:04):
We come for your father, my lady. We're here to
speak with your husband. Could you get him? He is ill.
You will have to come by tomorrow. He is in
his bed and cannot get up.
Speaker 1 (19:17):
A long silence, then a shift in tone.
Speaker 3 (19:21):
We have strict orders from the king. You'll see him now.
Speaker 1 (19:25):
They were not asking. The door cracked open. Michal stood frozen,
helpless as Abner and his men entered. Swords already drawn,
they moved with careful precision, unwilling to take any chances
against a man like David. Abner approached the bed. Slowly,
(19:46):
he raised his sword above his head, then with all
his weight, he plunged it downward. He cursed under his
breath and ripped the blanket aside, revealing nothing but a
pile of pillow furs and empty space. Michal gasped as
Abner whirled on her.
Speaker 2 (20:06):
Where is he?
Speaker 1 (20:07):
Michal collapsed to the floor, her body trembling as tears
spilled freely down her cheeks. Abner exhaled sharply through his nose.
He rolled his eyes, then sheathed his blade with an irritated, half.
Speaker 3 (20:23):
Fetch the king. Last thing I want is to harm
his daughter.
Speaker 2 (20:27):
Trying to give the truth.
Speaker 1 (20:28):
His men obeyed. It was not long before Saul arrived.
His massive frame seemed to shrink the very walls around him.
Michal cowered, trembling on the floor beside the bed. Saul
bent down, his teeth clenched so tightly that Michal could
hear them grinding chatter.
Speaker 3 (20:52):
Where is he?
Speaker 1 (20:56):
Michal's breath came in quick, panicked gasps. She had a
choice to make. Would she honor her husband or would
she save herself? She thought of David running through the night,
a fugitive, now a man on the run. Would she
ever see him again? Would she be left alone, stripped
(21:17):
of her title, her comforts, her security. Was he really
worth it? Michele lifted her tear streaked face. Her voice
came out in a choked sob as she lunged forward,
throwing her arms around her father's neck.
Speaker 3 (21:35):
No, father, I thank the Lord you have come. David
threatened my life.
Speaker 6 (21:42):
He said he would kill me if I did not
help him escape.
Speaker 1 (21:45):
Her body shook with shame. Saul stiffened, stunned, even he
in all his hatred, could not fully believe it. David threaten.
Michele did not seem his way, but her tears were real,
her voice broken, and in Saul's twisted mind, it made sense.
(22:10):
The boy had stolen his throne in the people's hearts,
why not steal his daughter's life as well. Saul gripped
Michalle's arms, holding her close.
Speaker 2 (22:22):
I swear to you, my daughter, I will find him.
I will destroy him. He will not hurt you again.
Speaker 1 (22:32):
Then he stood, his face carved from stone. Abner, the commander,
stepped forward.
Speaker 2 (22:41):
Send out scouts. Have them search the city for David.
But tell no one we seek his life. I cannot
have the people rising up to protect him.
Speaker 1 (22:52):
Abner nodded, already moving. Michal stayed where she was, her
face buried in her hands, her tears running hot with guilt.
Speaker 5 (23:07):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her review. We read them, and me personally, I
cherish them as you venture forth boldly and faithfully. I
leave you with the biblical blessing from numbers six IV.
Hashem vischmerchra, Yeah, Heir, hashempanave ele y sa hashempanavelera shaloon.
(23:37):
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the
Lord make his face shine upon you. May he be
gracious to you. Made the Lord turn his face towards
you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (23:48):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with You
Isle Exstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the
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Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People with
(24:11):
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(24:32):
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(24:55):
If you enjoyed The Chosen People with Yile Eckstein, please
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Previously on the chosen people.
Speaker 2 (00:03):
As you have torn my robe, so the Lord has
torn the kingdom from you. He will have it to another.
The Lord has already chosen him. He is a man
that seeks after the heart of God more than the heart.
Speaker 3 (00:19):
Of the people.
Speaker 1 (00:22):
They sang a song, one that rippled through the crowd
like wildfire. Saul has sain his thousands, but David his
ten thousands.
Speaker 2 (00:33):
He will take it from me, myke my kingdom, my throne,
my legacy. I will not let him. I will not
let him.
Speaker 1 (00:48):
Saul rose from his throne, the spear held firmly in
his grasp. David's eyes fluttered open, just as Saul whispered
under his breath in.
Speaker 2 (01:00):
Him to the wall.
Speaker 1 (01:04):
Saul was already reaching for a third spear when David
darted to the window.
Speaker 4 (01:10):
I hope we can put our disagreement yesterday behind us.
You and McCall shall be wet before God. You will
be made my son, and all the privileges of the
kingdom will be yours.
Speaker 1 (01:24):
Saul felt his crown grow heavier with every year. His
son loved David, his daughter loved David, and his people
love David. Soon they would love him enough to make
him king.
Speaker 5 (01:45):
Shallo my friends from here in the Holy Land of Israel.
I'm ya l Exstein with the International Fellowship of Christians
and Jews, and welcome to the Chosen People. Each day
we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible, stories
filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the meaning
of life. Through Israel story, we will find this truth
(02:07):
that we are all chosen for something great.
Speaker 6 (02:11):
So take a moment.
Speaker 5 (02:12):
Today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling extra grateful
for these stories, we would love it if you left
us a review. I read every single one of them,
and if you're interested in hearing more about the prophetic,
life saving work of the Fellowship, you can visit IFCJ
dot org. Let's begin.
Speaker 1 (02:34):
The torchlight flickered against Saul's face, casting jagged shadows across
the war room walls. His breath came hard and fast,
his chest rising like a bellow's. He towered over the table,
his fingers curled into fists against the wood around him.
His most trusted men stood silent, their faces grim.
Speaker 2 (02:59):
The unity of our nation is under attack.
Speaker 1 (03:03):
No one dared to move. The tapestry behind Saul hung
heavy with the weight of history, twelve tribes embroidered in
gold thread, a symbol of the nation he had been
chosen to rule. Saul turned, drew his dagger, and in
one violent motion, slashed the fabric.
Speaker 2 (03:23):
Down the middle.
Speaker 1 (03:24):
The sound of tearing cloth echoed like a war cry.
Speaker 2 (03:29):
Don't you see what he's doing? They chant his name
in the streets. They looked to him instead of me.
The people praise him as though he were the lord himself.
Speaker 1 (03:46):
Murmurs passed between the elders and generals. Some nodded, their
faces twisted with concern. Others shifted uncomfortably, exchanging wary glances.
Speaker 2 (03:58):
If they do not trust me over David, we will
have a civil war in our hands. He will revolt
when the moment is right, and when he does, the
kingdom will be split in two.
Speaker 1 (04:14):
Still, no one spoke. Jonathan stood at the back of
the room, half hidden in the shadows, his arms crossed
over his chest. He had heard his father's rants before,
but never like this. This was something darker, something dangerous.
He saw the madness creeping behind his father's eyes, twisting
(04:38):
his mind like a thorny vine. Saul was pacing now,
his dagger dancing between his fingers.
Speaker 2 (04:46):
It must be done quietly. If the people suspect me,
they will turn against me. We will, we will make
it look like an accident, or or perhaps the Philistines
could take the blame. I feel well placed rumors, and
the people will believe they assassinated their precious giant slayer.
Speaker 1 (05:06):
Jonathan's heart pounded. His father was going to kill David.
Jonathan forced his face into a mask of indifference, waiting, listening.
Saul's voice became a distant hum as his mind raced.
He needed to get out, needed to warn David before
(05:26):
the assassins could be sent. The moment came when Saul
turned to speak to one of his commanders. Jonathan didn't hesitate.
He slipped into the shadows, moving quickly through the halls
of the palace. If he was fast enough, he could
save David before it was too late. The stars stretched
(05:48):
wide and endless over Gibea. A cool breeze slipped through
the narrow window of David's room, rustling the linen drapes
before brushing against his cheek. He stirred, drawing the blankets
tighter around him, instinctively shifting closer to Michal. For the
first time in what felt like years, David allowed himself
(06:11):
a moment of peace. He had earned this, this bed,
this home, this wife, who slept soundly at his side.
His dreams were soft, wrapped in the memories of his boyhood,
rolling hills, green and boundless. And then a firm hand
clamped over his mouth. David's body tensed. His fingers shot
(06:36):
toward the dagger beneath his pillow, ready to plunge steel
into flesh. He twisted only for the moonlight to catch
a familiar face, Jonathan. Jonathan pressed a finger to his lips.
Michal stirred beside him, but did not wake. David exhaled, sharply,
setting the dagger down. He slipped from the bed without
(06:59):
a sound and careful not to rouse his wife, and
follow Jonathan outside.
Speaker 6 (07:05):
What's this about, Jonathan, You're in danger, little brother.
Speaker 3 (07:09):
My father seeks your life. It could be tonight, it
could be next week. But his mind is made up.
He means to kill you. He's possessed by jealousy and delusion.
Speaker 1 (07:20):
David's jaw tightened. He gave the smallest of nods. Jonathan
peered at David, sensing something wasn't right.
Speaker 3 (07:29):
You don't seem surprised. Is there something you're not telling me?
Speaker 6 (07:33):
Your father has already tried to kill me? What he
threw a spear at me? When he missed, he threw another.
I left before he could try a third.
Speaker 2 (07:45):
Why didn't you tell me.
Speaker 6 (07:47):
He's still my king? I have to give him the
benefit of the doubt.
Speaker 3 (07:52):
David, there's a line between loyalty and madness. You should
have told me. You should have told Michael.
Speaker 6 (08:01):
Soul is troubled. I didn't think he was out of hatred.
Shortly after his attempt on my life, he gave me
Michael's hand in marriage.
Speaker 3 (08:10):
You were wrong to give him that much grace. He's
not in his right mind.
Speaker 6 (08:14):
Are you in danger for telling me this? I don't
want you in trouble.
Speaker 3 (08:19):
You and I made a covenant that bond is stronger
than blood. I'll protect you.
Speaker 6 (08:25):
I swear I'll follow your lead.
Speaker 3 (08:28):
Stay hid, and tonight in the morning, I will go
out with my father into the fields. I will speak
well of you and test his heart. Let me be
your advocate.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
Michell, cold from inside, David, where'd you go? David smiled
at Jonathan, though there was sorrow behind it. He pulled
Jonathan into a firm embrace, holding him tightly.
Speaker 6 (08:52):
There are friends who stick closer than brothers.
Speaker 3 (08:55):
There are fools who walk willingly into the lion's dead.
Speaker 1 (08:58):
David gave a final nod before slipping back inside to Michele.
He reached for his dagger the moment he stepped through
the door, keeping it closer than ever. Jonathan disappeared into
the night, weaving through the palace gardens with quiet urgency.
The morning sun cast a golden glow over the fields
(09:21):
of Gibea, the wheat swaying gently in the breeze like
ripples across a vast sea. Jonathan walked the fields beside
his father, speaking of the kingdom of Battle, of their family.
Speaker 3 (09:36):
Father, there is a matter I wish to discuss. Oh,
speak your anger against David. I don't understand it. What
has he done to deserve your hatred?
Speaker 1 (09:47):
Saul stopped slowly. He turned to face his son, his
expression unreadable.
Speaker 2 (09:54):
It is not what he has done, Jonathan, It is
what he will do. The people praise him. They cheer
his name louder than mine. They whisper of him in
the streets, and sing songs of his victories. It is
only a matter of time before they seek to give
him the kingdom your your kingdom.
Speaker 3 (10:16):
It's God's kingdom, Father, not mine or yours.
Speaker 1 (10:20):
Soul scoffed and waved the correction away like an annoying fly.
Speaker 2 (10:25):
You don't understand, Jonathan, this is about establishing a stable lineage.
If any shepherd boy or peddler from the streets can
come and challenge the throne, this nation will never be
an established kingdom.
Speaker 3 (10:40):
He isn't some peddler, Father, He's the one who slew Goliath.
Speaker 1 (10:44):
Jonathan did not back down, Desperate to find reason with
his father.
Speaker 3 (10:49):
I beg you do not sin against your servant, David.
His hands are clean, his heart loyal. His deeds have
brought nothing but prosperity to this nation, prosperity to you.
Why would you strike down one whom God has chosen
to bless.
Speaker 1 (11:05):
Saul said nothing, his gaze locked on the ground beneath
his feet. He felt as though he were standing on
shifting sand, unsteady, off balance. His mind had not felt
clear in a very long time. He did not know
if it ever would again.
Speaker 2 (11:24):
You You are a wise man, my son, As the
Lord lives David shall not be harmed by my hand.
Speaker 1 (11:33):
Jonathan released a breath he had not realized he was holding.
That same day, Jonathan sought out David and told him
what had passed between him and the king. The relief
in David's eyes was clear, though caution still lingered behind them,
and for a time peace returned. David was restored to
(11:56):
Saul's court. He sat once more at the king's table,
partook in the feasts, and laughed with Jonathan as they
had before. He played his harp beside Saul's throne, the
melodies soothing the restless spirit of the king. It was
as if nothing had ever been wrong. David's fingers danced
(12:19):
along the strings of his harp, weaving a melody unlike
any he had played before. It climbed higher with each note,
rising and rising, like the wind before the breaking of dawn.
It was hope given sound, joy given breath, defiance of
darkness that could not be silenced. Saul loathed it. The
(12:45):
fire in the hearth flickered wildly as the king sat
upon his throne, his hand clenched around the shaft of
his spear. David did not sing this time. Lyrics were unnecessary,
but Saul fled in the space on his own. The
only words he could hear some were Saul has killed
(13:06):
his thousands and David his ten thousands. Saul's grip on
his spear tightened. The melody climbed, lifting higher. Refusing to
be dampened. Saul stood, his breath ragged, his fury tightening
around his throat like a noose. He could not bear it,
(13:26):
he would not bear it. David plucked the final note.
Speaker 3 (13:31):
Saul roared.
Speaker 1 (13:38):
The spear left his hand with a whistle, cutting through
the air like lightning, aimed straight for David's chest, but
the Shepherd had been waiting for this. He shifted to
the left, barely escaping it. The spear shot past his shoulder,
embedding itself into the seed of beam behind him. With
a deep shuddering thunk. Silence followed. David stood motionless, his
(14:04):
eyes locked onto the king. Saul's nostrils flared, his hands shaking,
his lips curling back in a snarl. He was not
a king at that moment. He was a beast, an animal, cornered,
desperate to destroy the thing that made him feel so small.
(14:24):
David had seen that look before, in the lion that
stole his lamb in the giant Goliath. The boy did
not hesitate. The moment Saul's hand twitched toward another spear,
David turned and fled. Saul's hatred had spilled over.
Speaker 3 (14:43):
Run you passard, Oh god Ward, You'll have no word
to calm.
Speaker 6 (14:53):
You'll be a fusion over this country.
Speaker 2 (14:57):
Her name will be a skirt you are, oh.
Speaker 1 (15:05):
David slammed the door behind him, breathless. The house was dark,
but Michal stirred from their bed, her eyes sharp with worry.
Speaker 3 (15:14):
What happened?
Speaker 1 (15:15):
David's hands shook as he ran them through his hair,
pulling it back tight.
Speaker 6 (15:22):
Your father has tried to kill me again again?
Speaker 3 (15:26):
What do you mean again?
Speaker 1 (15:28):
David fumbled through his chest of belongings and strapped Jonathan's
armor around his chest. He packed his robe and a
few daggers in a leather sack.
Speaker 6 (15:39):
The first time I thought it was rage, just an
outburst I forgave him. But no, now I know he
wants me dead. What did you do to make him
want to kill you?
Speaker 2 (15:53):
Nothing?
Speaker 6 (15:54):
I've been nothing but faithful to your father.
Speaker 2 (15:56):
You know that.
Speaker 1 (15:58):
Ah, I'm I'm not so sure, Michael.
Speaker 2 (16:03):
You know me do I.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
There was a sound in the distance. The two peered
through the night. Flickering torchlight wavered in the distance, shadows,
shifting men lurking just beyond the walls.
Speaker 6 (16:19):
Your father's man.
Speaker 3 (16:20):
You're waiting.
Speaker 6 (16:22):
They won't stripe now, They'll wait for dawn. When I
step out, and then, Michael, I refuse to fight them.
They're my countrymen, brothers in arms. I won't spill their blood,
not even to save my own.
Speaker 1 (16:35):
Michele paused, weighing every word. She was conflicted in her heart.
She knew David was innocent, but her life on the
run filled her with dread. Michele drew a deep breath
and grabbed David's face between her hands.
Speaker 3 (16:53):
Okay, okay, then listen to me.
Speaker 1 (16:57):
If you do not escape tonight will killed you. David
shook his head. He gripped her wrists, his touch firm
but pleading, Come with me, I love. Michal exhaled sharply,
frustration flashing in her eyes. She yanked away from his
(17:18):
grasp and snatched a sack, stuffing it with bread and
dried meat. No I can't, Michael, David hesitated, torn that
Michal's hands were swift fastening the sack and pressing it
into his arms.
Speaker 6 (17:38):
If I go with you, my father will think you
kidnapped me.
Speaker 1 (17:42):
She cupped his face again, softer this time, and kissed him,
a deep, desperate kiss, as if it would be their last.
Then she pulled away. Go David nodded silent. He slung
the sack over his shod shoulder, and together they fastened
a rope to the window. He climbed through, gripping tightly
(18:06):
as he lowered himself down into the darkness. The moment
his feet touched the ground, he was gone, swallowed by
the hills beyond the city. Michal lingered at the window,
watching the shadows until he disappeared. Then swiftly she moved.
(18:26):
She gathered pillows, arranging them beneath the blankets to mimic
a sleeping figure. She pulled Goat's fur over the top,
fashioning it to resemble David's hair, and then she climbed
into bed, her heart pounding in her throat, waiting. The
(18:46):
knock at the door was firm, deliberate. Michal sat upright
in bed, her breath caught in her throat.
Speaker 3 (18:55):
Who is it?
Speaker 1 (18:57):
She knew? On the other side of the door or
stood Abner, commander of her father's armies.
Speaker 3 (19:04):
We come for your father, my lady. We're here to
speak with your husband. Could you get him? He is ill.
You will have to come by tomorrow. He is in
his bed and cannot get up.
Speaker 1 (19:17):
A long silence, then a shift in tone.
Speaker 3 (19:21):
We have strict orders from the king. You'll see him now.
Speaker 1 (19:25):
They were not asking. The door cracked open. Michal stood frozen,
helpless as Abner and his men entered. Swords already drawn,
they moved with careful precision, unwilling to take any chances
against a man like David. Abner approached the bed. Slowly,
(19:46):
he raised his sword above his head, then with all
his weight, he plunged it downward. He cursed under his
breath and ripped the blanket aside, revealing nothing but a
pile of pillow furs and empty space. Michal gasped as
Abner whirled on her.
Speaker 2 (20:06):
Where is he?
Speaker 1 (20:07):
Michal collapsed to the floor, her body trembling as tears
spilled freely down her cheeks. Abner exhaled sharply through his nose.
He rolled his eyes, then sheathed his blade with an irritated, half.
Speaker 3 (20:23):
Fetch the king. Last thing I want is to harm
his daughter.
Speaker 2 (20:27):
Trying to give the truth.
Speaker 1 (20:28):
His men obeyed. It was not long before Saul arrived.
His massive frame seemed to shrink the very walls around him.
Michal cowered, trembling on the floor beside the bed. Saul
bent down, his teeth clenched so tightly that Michal could
hear them grinding chatter.
Speaker 3 (20:52):
Where is he?
Speaker 1 (20:56):
Michal's breath came in quick, panicked gasps. She had a
choice to make. Would she honor her husband or would
she save herself? She thought of David running through the night,
a fugitive, now a man on the run. Would she
ever see him again? Would she be left alone, stripped
(21:17):
of her title, her comforts, her security. Was he really
worth it? Michele lifted her tear streaked face. Her voice
came out in a choked sob as she lunged forward,
throwing her arms around her father's neck.
Speaker 3 (21:35):
No, father, I thank the Lord you have come. David
threatened my life.
Speaker 6 (21:42):
He said he would kill me if I did not
help him escape.
Speaker 1 (21:45):
Her body shook with shame. Saul stiffened, stunned, even he
in all his hatred, could not fully believe it. David threaten.
Michele did not seem his way, but her tears were real,
her voice broken, and in Saul's twisted mind, it made sense.
(22:10):
The boy had stolen his throne in the people's hearts,
why not steal his daughter's life as well. Saul gripped
Michalle's arms, holding her close.
Speaker 2 (22:22):
I swear to you, my daughter, I will find him.
I will destroy him. He will not hurt you again.
Speaker 1 (22:32):
Then he stood, his face carved from stone. Abner, the commander,
stepped forward.
Speaker 2 (22:41):
Send out scouts. Have them search the city for David.
But tell no one we seek his life. I cannot
have the people rising up to protect him.
Speaker 1 (22:52):
Abner nodded, already moving. Michal stayed where she was, her
face buried in her hands, her tears running hot with guilt.
Speaker 5 (23:07):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her review. We read them, and me personally, I
cherish them as you venture forth boldly and faithfully. I
leave you with the biblical blessing from numbers six IV.
Hashem vischmerchra, Yeah, Heir, hashempanave ele y sa hashempanavelera shaloon.
(23:37):
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the
Lord make his face shine upon you. May he be
gracious to you. Made the Lord turn his face towards
you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (23:48):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with You
Isle Exstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the
pray dot Com app today. This prey dot Com un
production is only made possible by our dedicated team of
creative talents. Steve Katina, Max Bard, Zach Shellabarger and Ben
Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People with
(24:11):
Yile Eckstein, Edited by Alberto Avilla, narrated by Paul Coltofianu.
Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz,
Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher,
and the opening prayer is voiced by John Moore. Music
(24:32):
by Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie
and Chris Baig. Special thanks to Bishop Paul Lanier, Robin
van Ettin Kaylab Burrows, Jocelyn Fuller, and the team at
International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. You can hear more
Prey dot com productions on the Prey dot com app,
available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
(24:55):
If you enjoyed The Chosen People with Yile Eckstein, please
rate and leave a review.
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