Literally, “cause David to die.” Saul decided to make David the target of a political purge and discussed the matter with Jonathan and some of his government officials. No doubt he assured them immunity from punishment.
This was Saul’s fifth attempt to do away with David:
(2) Then he tried to accomplish his evil design by placing David at the front in the hope that he would be killed (ch. 18:17).
(3) Next, Saul deceived him by promising him Merab but giving her to another, perhaps hoping that David would act rashly as a result and might be punished (ch. 18:19).
(4) After that, he gave David permission to earn the dowry for Michal by a dangerous mission (ch. 18:25).
(5) Now, it being evident that the Lord was with David, Saul sought the help of others to kill him.