1 Samuel 18:2-8

New English Translation

² Saul retained David^[a] on that day and did not allow him to return to his father’s house. ³ Jonathan made a covenant with David, for he loved him as much as he did his own life.^{[b] 4} Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with the rest of his gear including his sword, his bow, and even his belt.

⁵ On every mission on which Saul sent him, David achieved success. So Saul appointed him over the men of war. This pleased not only all the army, but also Saul’s servants.^[c]

⁶ When the men^[d] arrived after David returned from striking down the Philistine, the women from all the cities of Israel came out singing and dancing to meet King Saul. They were happy as they played their tambourines and three-stringed instruments.^{[e] 7} The women who were playing the music sang,

⁸ This made Saul very angry. The statement displeased him and he thought,^[f] “They have attributed to David tens of thousands, but to me they have attributed only thousands. What does he lack, except the kingdom?”