1 Samuel 18:26

Matthew Henry on 1 Samuel 18:12–end

Saul had now, in effect, proclaimed war with David. He began in open hostility when he threw the javelin at him. Now we are here told how his enmity proceeded, and how David received the attacks of it. I. See how Saul expressed his malice against David. 1. He was afraid of him, Sa1 18:12. Perhaps he pretended to be afraid that David would do himself mischief, to force his way to the crown. Those that design ill against others are commonly willing to have it thought that others design ill against them. But David's withdrawal (Sa1 18:11) was a plain evidence that he was far from such a thought. However, he really stood in awe of him, as Herod feared John, Mar 6:20. Saul was sensible that he ha…

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 18:26

the days were not expired--The period within which this exploit was to be achieved was not exhausted.

Adam Clarke on 1 Samuel 18:25

But a hundred foreskins - That is, Thou shalt slay one hundred Philistines, and thou shalt produce their foreskins, as a proof, not only that thou hast killed one hundred men, but that these are of the uncircumcised. A custom similar to this still prevails among the Abyssinians, according to Bruce. See his Travels.

John Gill on 1 Samuel 18:26

And when his servants told David these words,.... That the king desired no other dowry than an hundred foreskins of the Philistines: it pleased David well to be the king's son in law; on such conditions; partly because of the honour of it, and partly because of his love to Michal; and chiefly because it would give him an opportunity of destroying the enemies of God, and of his people, as well as such a match would lead the way, and be a step in Providence to ascend the throne designed for him in due time: and the days were not expired; neither for the bringing in of the foreskins, nor for the consummation of the marriage.

Keil & Delitzsch