David Plays Music for Saul

The Spirit of Yahweh had departed from Saul, and a troubling spirit from Yahweh distressed him. Saul’s servants saw his trouble and suggested finding a man who could play the harp. They said that when the spirit came on Saul, the music could help him and he would be well.

Saul agreed and asked for someone who could play well. One of the young men spoke of David, the son of Jesse from Bethlehem. He said David was skilful in playing, a mighty man of valour, a man of war, prudent in speech, handsome, and that Yahweh was with him.

Saul sent messengers to Jesse and asked for David, who was with the sheep. Jesse sent David to Saul. He also sent gifts with him: a donkey carrying bread, a container of wine, and a young goat.

David came to Saul and stood before him. Saul loved him greatly, and David became his armour bearer. Saul then sent word to Jesse, asking that David remain with him, because David had found favour in his sight.

Whenever the spirit from God came on Saul, David took the harp and played with his hand. Saul was refreshed and became well, and the troubling spirit departed from him.