1 Then David fled from Naioth in Ramah and came and said before Jonathan, “What have I done? What is my guilt? And what is my sin before your father, that he seeks my life?”
2 And he said to him, “Far from it! You shall not die. Behold, my father does nothing either great or small without disclosing it to me. And why should my father hide this from me? It is not so.”
3 Then David took an oath again, and said, “Your father knows well that I have found favor in your eyes, and he thinks, ‘Do not let Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved.’ But truly, as the Lord lives and as your soul lives, there is but a step between me and death.”
4 Then Jonathan said to David, “Whatever you say, I will do for you.”
5 David said to Jonathan, “Behold, tomorrow is the new moon, and I should not fail to sit at table with the king. But let me go, that I may hide myself in the field till the third day at evening.
6 If your father misses me at all, then say, ‘David earnestly asked leave of me to run to Bethlehem his city, for there is a yearly sacrifice there for all the clan.’
7 If he says, ‘Good!’ it will be well with your servant, but if he is angry, then know that harm is determined by him.
8 Therefore deal kindly with your servant, for you have brought your servant into a covenant of the Lord with you. But if there is guilt in me, kill me yourself, for why should you bring me to your father?”
9 Then Jonathan said, “Far be it from you! If I knew that it was determined by my father that harm should come to you, would I not tell you?”
10 Then David said to Jonathan, “Who will tell me if your father answers you roughly?”
11 Jonathan said to David, “Come, let us go out into the field.” So they both went out into the field.
12 And Jonathan said to David, “The Lord, the God of Israel, be witness! When I have sounded out my father, about this time tomorrow, or the third day, behold, if he is well disposed toward David, shall I not then send and disclose it to you?
13 But should it please my father to do you harm, the Lord do so to Jonathan and more also if I do not disclose it to you and send you away, that you may go in safety. May the Lord be with you, as he has been with my father.
14 If I am still alive, show me the steadfast love of the Lord, that I may not die;
15 but do not cut off your steadfast love from my house forever, when the Lord cuts off every one of the enemies of David from the face of the earth.
16 So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, “May the Lord take vengeance on David’s enemies.”
17 And Jonathan made David swear again by his love for him, for he loved him as he loved his own soul.
18 Then Jonathan said to David, “Tomorrow is the new moon, and you will be missed, because your seat will be empty.
19 And on the third day I will shoot three arrows to the side of it, as though I shot at a mark.
20 I will shoot three arrows to the side of it, as though I shot at a mark.
21 And behold, I will send the boy, saying, ‘Go, find the arrows.’ If I say to the boy, ‘Look, the arrows are on this side of you, take them,’ then you are to come, for, as the Lord lives, it is safe for you and there is no danger.
22 But if I say to the youth, ‘Look, the arrows are beyond you,’ then go, for the Lord has sent you away.
23 And as for the matter of which you and I have spoken, behold, the Lord is between you and me forever.”
24 So David hid himself in the field. And when the new moon came, the king sat down to eat food.
25 And the king sat on his seat, as at other times, on the seat by the wall. Jonathan sat opposite, and Abner sat by Saul’s side, but David’s place was empty.
26 Nevertheless, Saul did not say anything that day, for he thought, “Something has happened to him. He is not clean; surely he is not clean.”
27 But on the second day, the day after the new moon, David’s place was empty. And Saul said to Jonathan his son, “Why has not the son of Jesse come to the meal, either yesterday or today?”
28 Then Jonathan answered Saul, “David earnestly asked leave of me to go to Bethlehem.
29 He said, ‘Let me go, for our clan holds a sacrifice in the city, and my brother has commanded me to be there. So now, if I have found favor in your eyes, let me get away and see my brothers.’ For this reason he has not come to the king’s table.”
30 Then Saul’s anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said to him, “You son of a perverse, rebellious woman, do I not know that you have chosen the son of Jesse to your own shame, and to the shame of your mother’s nakedness?
31 For as long as the son of Jesse lives on the earth, neither you nor your kingdom shall be established. Therefore send and bring him to me, for he shall surely die.”
32 And Jonathan answered Saul his father, “Why should he be put to death? What has he done?”
33 But Saul hurled his spear at him to strike him. So Jonathan knew that his father was determined to put David to death.
34 Jonathan rose from the table in fierce anger and ate no food the second day of the month, for he was grieved for David, because his father had disgraced him.
35 In the morning Jonathan went out into the field to the appointment with David, and with him a little boy.
36 And he said to his boy, “Run and find the arrows that I shoot.” As the boy ran, he shot an arrow beyond him.
37 And when the boy had come to the place of the arrow that Jonathan had shot, Jonathan called after the boy and said, “Is not the arrow beyond you?”
38 And Jonathan called after the boy, “Hurry! Be quick! Do not stay!” So Jonathan’s boy gathered up the arrows and came to his master.
39 But the boy knew nothing. Only Jonathan and David knew the matter.
40 Then Jonathan gave his weapons to his boy and said to him, “Go and carry them to the city.”
41 And as soon as the boy had gone, David rose from beside the stone heap and fell on his face to the ground and bowed three times. And they kissed one another and wept with one another, David weeping the most.
42 Then Jonathan said to David, “Go in peace, because we have sworn both of us in the name of the Lord, saying, ‘The Lord shall be between me and you, and between my offspring and your offspring, forever.’” And he rose and departed, and Jonathan went into the city.
The True Meaning of 1 Samuel 20
The book of 1 Samuel was written by the prophet Samuel, who played a crucial role in the transition from the era of judges to the establishment of the monarchy in ancient Israel. David navigates the complex relationship with his friend Jonathan and the growing hostility of King Saul as we witness the unfolding of a pivotal moment in his life in this particular chapter.
This chapter sets the stage for the escalating conflict between David and Saul, as the latter’s jealousy and paranoia threaten to tear apart the kingdom. We will see how David and Jonathan devise a plan to discern Saul’s true intentions, leading to a heartbreaking farewell between the two friends. The events in this chapter foreshadow the eventual confrontation between David and Saul, as the latter’s pursuit of David becomes more relentless.
Throughout this passage, we are reminded of the importance of loyalty, trust, and the power of true friendship, even in the face of adversity. The chapter also highlights the role of divine providence in shaping the course of events, as David’s life is spared despite Saul’s attempts to eliminate him. As we delve into this chapter, we will gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play and the challenges faced by those who seek to follow God’s will in the midst of political turmoil.
1 Samuel 20:1-4
David and Jonathan, the son of King Saul, share an emotional and pivotal moment in 1 Samuel 20:1-4. The passage begins with David fleeing from Saul’s wrath as he seeks to kill him. David finds Jonathan and expresses his fear, stating he has done nothing to deserve Saul’s pursuit. This shows the depth of the friendship between David and Jonathan, who have a bond that transcends David’s current circumstances.
Jonathan, aware of his father’s intentions towards David, promises to find out if David is truly in danger. The loyalty and courage of Jonathan, who stands by David in the face of his father’s schemes, are highlighted in this interaction. This loyalty demonstrates true friendship and speaks to the importance of having people in our lives who will stand by us even in the most difficult times.
Jonathan assures David of his commitment by saying, “Whatever you want me to do, I’ll do for you.” This selfless pledge of support highlights Jonathan’s noble character and willingness to sacrifice for the well-being of his friend. It also showcases the power of true friendship, where individuals are willing to go above and beyond for one another.
This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of loyalty, trust, and selflessness in relationships. Jonathan’s unwavering support for David, despite the risks involved, is a powerful example of standing by those we care about, even when it may be easier to turn away. This theme of loyalty and friendship is echoed throughout the Bible, such as in Proverbs 17:17, which states, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. True companionship reminds us of the profound impact of David and Jonathan’s relationship in these verses as we reflect. Their bond transcends political alliances and family ties, embodying the idea of unconditional love and support. This narrative showcases the beauty of genuine friendship, where individuals are willing to walk alongside each other through the trials and tribulations of life.
1 Samuel 20:5-11
Jonathan and David have a poignant interaction in 1 Samuel 20:5-11, where God had anointed David to be the next king of Israel. This passage captures the deep friendship and loyalty between Jonathan and David, amidst the turmoil and jealousy that existed between David and Saul. Jonathan, knowing his father’s malicious intent towards David, devises a plan to test Saul’s attitude towards David by gauging his absence at a family feast during the New Moon celebration.
Jonathan assures David of his loyalty by saying, “Whatever you want me to do, I’ll do for you.” This statement of unwavering loyalty and love towards David showcases the depth of their friendship. Jonathan’s willingness to risk his father’s wrath to protect David reveals his profound trust in God’s plan for David’s life.
The New Moon feast was a significant event in Israel, signaling the beginning of the month and marked by sacrifices and feasting (Numbers 10:10). David would expose himself to Saul’s reaction and provide an opportunity for Jonathan to gauge his father’s intentions towards David by not attending the feast as usual.
This passage illustrates the themes of loyalty, friendship, and discernment. Jonathan’s loyalty to David, even at the risk of his relationship with his father, speaks to the importance of standing by those whom God has placed in our lives, even when it is not easy. It also highlights the significance of discernment and seeking God’s guidance in navigating complex relationships and situations. Jonathan’s actions reflect Proverbs 17:17, which states, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. 1 Samuel 20:5-11 serves as a powerful reminder of the value of true friendship, loyalty, and discernment in the midst of challenging circumstances. Jonathan and David’s bond is a shining example of selfless love and support, demonstrating the timeless message of the importance of standing by those whom God has placed in our lives, even in the face of adversity.
1 Samuel 20:12-17
Verse 12 begins with Jonathan expressing his loyalty and commitment to David by reaffirming his trust in David’s integrity. Jonathan knew that David had been anointed by God to be the future king of Israel and he was willing to support him even if it meant going against his own father, King Saul. This act of loyalty and friendship between Jonathan and David is a central theme in this chapter and in the broader narrative of 1 Samuel. It highlights the importance of having strong and faithful relationships, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Moving to verse 13, we witness Jonathan’s belief that if David truly faced any danger at the hand of King Saul, then Jonathan would warn him. Jonathan’s love for David transcended his loyalty to his own family and he valued their friendship above all else. This kind of sacrificial love is reminiscent of Jesus’ teachings in the New Testament, where He emphasizes the importance of selfless love for others, even to the point of laying down one’s life. Jonathan underscores the bond between David and himself in verse 14 by reminding David of the covenant they had made together. This covenant was an agreement of friendship and loyalty, where they promised to look out for each other’s well-being and the well-being of their families. This notion of covenant is pivotal in the Bible, as it represents a sacred agreement between parties. God made a covenant with His people in the Old Testament, promising to be their God and to care for them, and they were to be faithful to Him in return.
Continuing to verses 15 and 16, Jonathan expresses his desire for God to punish him if he does not uphold his covenant with David and his future descendants. This displays the seriousness with which Jonathan viewed his commitment to David. He understood the gravity of his promise and was willing to face divine consequences if he failed to honor it. This level of integrity and accountability serves as a powerful lesson for readers today, emphasizing the importance of keeping one’s word and standing by commitments.
Verse 17 concludes this passage with Jonathan’s heartfelt vow to ensure David’s safety by reminding him of the Lord’s eternal promise of friendship between their families. This promise symbolizes God’s faithfulness to His people and His role in establishing and preserving relationships. Jonathan’s actions here demonstrate his faith in God’s plan and his dedication to supporting David, despite the challenges that lay ahead. This passage in 1 Samuel 20 ultimately captures the essence of true friendship, loyalty, and faith in God’s sovereignty, all of which are enduring themes that resonate throughout the Bible.
1 Samuel 20:18-23
David and his dear friend Jonathan have a crucial interaction in 1 Samuel 20:18-23. This section starts with a conversation between the two, where Jonathan reaffirms his loyalty and commitment to David, acknowledging that his father, King Saul, seeks to harm David. Jonathan assures David that he will find out his father’s intentions and communicate with David to ensure his safety.
This passage showcases the depth of the bond between David and Jonathan. Despite being the son of King Saul, Jonathan remains steadfast in his friendship with David, even going against his father to protect his friend. Their friendship is a beautiful example of loyalty, trust, and selflessness. Jonathan’s actions serve as a testament to the power of friendship and the importance of standing by those we care about, even in the face of adversity.
The dynamic between David, Jonathan, and Saul is complex and filled with tension. King Saul’s increasing jealousy and paranoia towards David have driven a wedge between him and his son Jonathan. Jonathan’s loyalty is torn between his father, the king, and his friend, David, whom he knows has been anointed by God to be the future king of Israel. Despite the conflicting loyalties, Jonathan chooses to honor his friendship with David, illustrating his noble character and his faithfulness to God’s plan.
This passage also highlights the theme of loyalty and trust in God’s providence. David and Jonathan’s trust in each other is underpinned by their shared faith in God’s ultimate plan. Despite the challenges and dangers they face, they believe that God will protect and guide them. This faith is not misplaced, as we see throughout David’s life how God faithfully delivers him from his enemies and fulfills His promises. The friendship between David and Jonathan in the broader biblical context can foreshadow the greater friendship and loyalty between Jesus Christ and his followers. Just as Jonathan stood by David in the face of adversity, Jesus stands by his disciples, offering them love, guidance, and protection. The example set by David and Jonathan serves as a timeless reminder of the power of friendship, loyalty, and faith in God’s plans. Their story continues to inspire readers to cultivate deep, meaningful relationships and to trust in God’s faithfulness, even in the midst of trials and tribulations.
1 Samuel 20:24-29
David and Jonathan have a significant interaction in 1 Samuel 20:24-29. This section is a pivotal moment in David’s life as he is navigating the treacherous waters of King Saul’s jealousy and desire to kill him. At this point, David is in the midst of trying to discern Saul’s intentions towards him with Jonathan’s help.
Jonathan had made a covenant with David, pledging his loyalty and friendship to him while also understanding David’s rightful place as the one anointed by God to be the future king of Israel. Despite being King Saul’s son and next in line for the throne, Jonathan recognizes and accepts God’s choice of David for the kingship. This act of loyalty and humility on Jonathan’s part is commendable and showcases his character as a man of integrity and faith. Jonathan tests his father’s intentions towards David by creating a plan for David to hide in a field while he communicates with Saul in these verses. Jonathan promises to find out his father’s true intentions and then report back to David. This shows Jonathan’s courage and love for David, willing to risk his father’s anger to protect his friend.
This passage highlights the themes of loyalty, trust, and obedience to God’s will. Jonathan’s loyalty to David, despite his own potential loss, reflects the importance of standing by those whom we believe in, even when it may not be the popular or easy choice. It also demonstrates the strength of true friendship that is willing to sacrifice for the well-being of another.
Jonathan’s actions can be contrasted with his father Saul’s jealousy, lack of trust in God’s plan, and desire for power. While Jonathan acts with faith and selflessness, Saul’s actions are driven by fear and self-preservation. This stark contrast serves as a powerful lesson on the consequences of choosing obedience to God versus prioritizing one’s own ambitions. This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of loyalty, faithfulness, and discernment in relationships. It also showcases the impact of one’s character and choices on those around them, emphasizing the value of integrity and selflessness in all circumstances. We are encouraged to seek and nurture friendships built on trust, faith, and mutual respect, even when faced with challenges and opposition, as we reflect on Jonathan and David’s relationship in the midst of adversity.
1 Samuel 20:30-34
We witness a crucial moment in the relationship between David and King Saul in these verses from 1 Samuel 20. The breakdown of this section reveals key insights into the characters involved and the themes of loyalty and betrayal.
Starting with verse 30, we see King Saul’s anger boiling over as he accuses his own son Jonathan of siding with David against him. This outburst by Saul showcases his paranoia and jealousy towards David, whom he views as a threat to his own reign. Saul’s inability to see Jonathan’s love for David as pure friendship and not treason highlights his spiraling descent into madness.
Jonathan’s response in verses 31-34 is heart-wrenching as he tries to defend David and reason with his father. Jonathan’s loyalty to David is unwavering, even at the risk of incurring his father’s wrath. Jonathan’s plea for justice and fairness, coupled with his willingness to stand by David in the face of adversity, exemplifies true friendship and loyalty. Despite being torn between his loyalty to David and his duty to his father, Jonathan shows great courage and integrity in this moment.
This episode in 1 Samuel 20 underscores the importance of loyalty and the challenges that can arise when loyalty to God conflicts with loyalty to earthly authority. David’s righteousness and Jonathan’s unyielding loyalty to him stand out as examples to emulate. These verses also foreshadow the tumultuous events that will follow in David’s life as he navigates the treacherous path set by King Saul’s jealousy and paranoia. This passage ties in with other biblical themes such as the testing of faith and the consequences of jealousy and betrayal. David’s unwavering faith in God’s plan for him, despite facing persecution from Saul, serves as a powerful testament to trust in the Lord’s guidance. The consequences of Saul’s jealousy and betrayal towards David serve as a cautionary tale against allowing negative emotions to dictate one’s actions. 1 Samuel 20:30-34 provides a rich tapestry of character dynamics, moral dilemmas, and spiritual lessons that continue to resonate with readers today. The steadfast loyalty of Jonathan and the unwavering faith of David serve as beacons of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the enduring power of friendship, integrity, and trust in God’s divine providence.
1 Samuel 20:35-40
David and Jonathan, close friends even amidst the turbulent circumstances of Saul’s jealousy towards David, experience a pivotal moment in their relationship in 1 Samuel 20:35-40. Jonathan keeps the promise he made to David to find out his father Saul’s response towards him in this passage. Jonathan decides to shoot arrows to alert David of Saul’s intentions towards him, signaling to David whether it was safe for him to return to the king’s presence or if he needed to flee for his life. The arrows being shot beyond the boy who was David’s servant was the predetermined sign Jonathan would give to David about Saul’s intentions. This covert communication showcases Jonathan’s loyalty to David and their deep bond of friendship, despite the danger it imposed on Jonathan due to his loyalty to his father, King Saul.
The actions of Jonathan in this passage highlight the theme of loyalty and friendship in the Bible. Jonathan’s willingness to defy his father’s wishes and support David, even at the cost of potentially straining his relationship with Saul, demonstrates the importance of standing by those we care about, even in difficult circumstances. This loyalty is reminiscent of the loyalty that David himself displayed towards Saul, despite the king’s attempts to kill him. The bond between David and Jonathan is a powerful testament to the value of true friendship in the face of adversity, showing how it can provide support and strength in times of trial.
Furthermore, this passage also reveals the ongoing tension and conflict within Saul’s family. Jonathan’s actions of warning David indicate that he was aware of his father’s intentions and was willing to act against them to protect David. This internal strife within the royal family underscores the consequences of Saul’s disobedience to God and his descent into jealousy and paranoia. It serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and the importance of remaining faithful to God’s will rather than succumbing to selfish desires. The relationship between David and Jonathan in the wider scope of the Bible serves as a precursor to the loyalty and support that believers are called to show one another. Just as Jonathan risked his own safety to protect David, Christians are encouraged to support and uplift each other, even when it is difficult or unpopular. Romans 12:10 urges believers to “be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves,” reflecting the principles of friendship and loyalty demonstrated in the relationship between David and Jonathan. This passage, therefore, not only serves as a historical account but also imparts timeless lessons about the value of loyalty, friendship, and standing firm in one’s faith.
1 Samuel 20:41-42
Jonathan, the son of King Saul, and David, the anointed future king of Israel, share a poignant moment in verses 1 Samuel 20:41-42. Jonathan had just confirmed his father Saul’s intent to kill David, leading David to flee for his life. Jonathan and David wept together as they bid each other farewell, displaying a deep emotion that reflected the true bond between these two friends.
The friendship between Jonathan and David is one of the most profound relationships in the Bible. It is a beautiful example of loyalty, selflessness, and sacrifice. Despite Jonathan’s own position as heir to the throne, he recognized and accepted that David was chosen by God to be the next king. Jonathan’s loyalty to David, even at the cost of his own position and safety, is a testament to his character and faith in God’s plan. Their friendship showcases the importance of supporting and uplifting one another, even in the face of adversity.
The weeping between Jonathan and David serves as a reminder of the deep emotional connection they shared. It humanizes these two prominent figures and shows that even strong, brave men can be vulnerable and express their feelings openly. This vulnerability is a crucial aspect of relationships, reminding us that it is okay to show our emotions and lean on one another for support during challenging times. The friendship between Jonathan and David in the broader context of the Bible compares to the importance of companionship and camaraderie in the Christian faith. Proverbs 17:17 states, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” This verse reflects the deep, unwavering bond between Jonathan and David, showing that true friendship endures through all circumstances. The emotional exchange between Jonathan and David in 1 Samuel 20:41-42 highlights the power of friendship, loyalty, and emotional connection. It serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of supporting one another, being vulnerable, and standing by one another, even in the most challenging of times.
After 1 Samuel 20
The chapter concluded with Jonathan and David making a covenant before the Lord. They agreed that David would flee from Saul’s wrath, and Jonathan would inform him when it was safe to return. The two friends parted ways, carrying heavy hearts burdened by the weight of the uncertain future that lay ahead.
Yet, even in the midst of this turmoil, the Lord’s hand was at work, guiding and protecting His anointed one. For as the next chapter will reveal, the Lord had a plan to preserve David’s life and prepare him for the throne that was rightfully his. Though the path ahead was shrouded in darkness, the light of God’s promise shone brightly, giving David the courage to trust in the Lord’s perfect timing.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.