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

Here's a fascinating peek into the dramatic life of King David and the sharp wit of Michal, his wife. When faced with Saul’s murderous intent, Michal displays her loyalty and cleverness by tricking the king’s messengers. Instead of just covering for David, she meticulously crafted a deception using a household idol—not exactly the family’s proudest decoration but a resourceful ploy nonetheless!

The idol may have been a fabricated lookalike of David, maybe as a physical stand-in in the same way you might use pillows in a fort. It’s intriguing to think about the sentiments attached to idols during David's time. They were often seen not just as religious artifacts but held political significance too, reflecting alliances and influences.

What's even more captivating is the goats' hair used to conceal the imitation David. This wasn't just any old bedspread; it was a symbol of wilderness and scarcity, hinting at David's shepherd origins and his ongoing struggle. This period of deception is darkly ironic though, considering later in life, David’s own family tumult proves that the earlier act of treachery—a shrewd maneuver during a dangerous time—could tragically spiral into chaos.

Interestingly, the mention of idol worship within this context invites deeper reflection on the complexity of divine representation and personal beliefs. Despite the faint echoes of idolatry here, Michal's act can be viewed as an instinctive struggle for love and protection against tyranny. It's a riveting moment that invites us to ponder loyalties and sacrifices across time!