The answer is: An idol

1 Samuel 19:13 - She placed an idol on his bed and covered it with goats hair and David's clothes

In the tale of Michal and David from 1 Samuel, we witness a gripping mix of loyalty, cleverness, and cultural symbolism. Michal's swift thinking to deceive her father, King Saul, illustrates not just affection for David, but also her defiance against her father's kingly authority. By placing an idol in the bed, she performs a shrewd act that reveals pokes into the tension between worship, identity, and political power in ancient Israel.

Interestingly, this "idol" isn't just any sculpture—it carries implications about idolatry in Israelite culture. Perhaps it served as a practical decoy, but it also could have reflected the pagan influences around them in that era. Idolatry often symbolized betrayal of God's covenant, so Michal's choice to use an idol raises questions on faith and familial loyalty.

Moreover, her act of covering the idol with goat's hair hints at a touch of humor and humanity—intentionally or not, she embodies the complexities that exist in personal and national allegiance during that turmoil-filled period. Did you know that Michal’s story often draws echoes of rebellion found elsewhere in scripture, such as with other strong women like Deborah and Jael during tumultuous times in Israel’s history? Each stands out as a significant figure who challenges expectations and carves her own remarkable path amidst patriarchal society.

Ultimately, Michal's clever deception emphasizes themes of love, sacrifice, and standing up for what we believe, making her story quite captivating in the vibrant tapestry of the Bible!