¹⁶ But everyone in Israel and Judah loved David because he was such a successful leader.

David Marries Saul's Daughter

¹⁷ Then Saul said to David, “Here is my older daughter Merab. I will give her to you as your wife on condition that you serve me as a brave and loyal soldier, and fight the Lord's battles.” (Saul was thinking that in this way the Philistines would kill David, and he would not have to do it himself.)

¹⁸ David answered, “Who am I and what is my family that I should become the king's son-in-law?”