Navigating Treachery and Loyalty: Understanding David and Jonathan’s Covenant in 1 Samuel 20

Executive Summary ✨

1 Samuel 20 unveils a profound narrative of friendship, loyalty, and divine providence amidst looming danger. David, fearing Saul’s murderous intentions, seeks counsel from Jonathan, who grapples with the conflict between his love for David and his duty to his father, the King. Through a carefully orchestrated plan, Jonathan uncovers Saul’s true intentions and risks his own life to warn David. The chapter culminates in a powerful covenant renewal, solidifying their bond of brotherhood under God’s watchful eye. This passage offers enduring lessons about unwavering loyalty, the cost of obedience to God, and the enduring power of divine protection amidst earthly treachery, showcasing a blueprint for navigating treacherous times with unwavering faith and integrity. Understanding David and Jonathan’s Covenant in 1 Samuel 20 provides critical insights for Christians today, especially regarding loyalty, friendship and obedience to God.

The story of David and Jonathan in 1 Samuel 20 is more than just a historical account; it’s a profound theological treatise on the nature of true friendship, loyalty in the face of adversity, and the sovereign hand of God orchestrating events for His purposes. This chapter reveals the depth of their bond, a covenant sealed not just with words, but with unwavering commitment and sacrifice, a relationship that serves as a timeless example for believers today. It demonstrates that, even in the midst of turmoil and betrayal, true faith and genuine companionship can illuminate the path forward, leading us to rely more fully on divine strength and guidance. Let us delve into the nuances of this chapter to uncover its spiritual treasures.

Commentary Sections 📜

1 Samuel 20:1 (KJV)

“And David fled from Naioth in Ramah, and came and said before Jonathan, What have I done? what is mine iniquity? and what is my sin before thy father, that he seeketh my life?”

David, having narrowly escaped Saul’s pursuit in Ramah, seeks refuge with Jonathan. His urgent question reveals a deep sense of bewilderment and injustice. He cannot fathom why Saul, his king and supposed benefactor, is relentlessly hunting him. This reflects the human struggle to understand unjust suffering, a theme echoed throughout the scriptures. We can relate to David’s confusion, especially in times of unexplained hardship. Saint Athanasius, in his “Life of Antony,” underscores the idea that suffering tests our faith and reveals the depths of our trust in God (Vita Antonii, PG 26:837). In times of persecution, we must reflect on our own conduct and seek reconciliation, but never lose faith in God’s justice, even when it is veiled. Like David, we can use free website builders to spread God’s word.

Spiritual Application: When facing unjust treatment, examine your heart before God. Seek to understand if there is any hidden sin, but ultimately, trust in His sovereignty and justice.

1 Samuel 20:2 (KJV)

“And he said unto him, God forbid; thou shalt not die: behold, my father will do nothing either great or small, but that he will shew it me: and why should my father hide this thing from me? it is not so.”

Jonathan, initially skeptical, vehemently denies David’s fears. He trusts his father implicitly and cannot conceive of Saul plotting against David without confiding in him. This illustrates the complexities of familial loyalty. Jonathan’s initial trust is a natural human response, but it highlights the potential for deception even within close relationships. As the Apostle Paul warns in Ephesians 6:12, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Ephesians 6:12 KJV). Jonathan’s subsequent actions demonstrate a willingness to challenge his preconceived notions, reflecting a growing awareness of the spiritual forces at play. Such openness to truth, even when it contradicts our own beliefs, is crucial for spiritual growth.

Spiritual Application: While honoring familial bonds, maintain discernment and be open to the possibility of deception, even from those closest to you.

1 Samuel 20:3-4 (KJV)

“And David sware moreover, and said, Thy father certainly knoweth that I have found grace in thine eyes; and he saith, Let not Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved: but truly as the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, there is but a step between me and death. Then said Jonathan unto David, Whatsoever thy soul desireth, I will even do it for thee.”

David, deeply convinced of Saul’s treachery, reaffirms his fears with an oath. He suspects Saul is deliberately concealing his intentions from Jonathan, knowing their deep friendship. Jonathan, now acknowledging the gravity of the situation, pledges his unconditional support to David. The strength of their covenant is palpable. This highlights the essence of true friendship as defined in the book of Sirach in the deuterocanonical books: “A faithful friend is a strong defense; and he that hath found him hath found a treasure.” (Sirach 6:14 KJV). Jonathan’s willingness to do anything for David reflects a Christ-like selflessness and devotion, a willingness to put another’s needs above his own. This type of sacrificial love is a hallmark of authentic Christian discipleship.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate friendships characterized by unwavering loyalty and a willingness to sacrifice for one another, reflecting the love of Christ.

1 Samuel 20:5-9 (KJV)

“And David said unto Jonathan, Behold, to morrow is the new moon, and I should not fail to sit with the king at meat: but let me go, that I may hide myself in the field unto the third day at even. If thy father at all miss me, then say, David earnestly asked leave of me that he might run to Bethlehem his city: for there is a yearly sacrifice there for all the family. If he say thus, It is well; thy servant shall have peace: but if he be very wroth, then be sure that evil is determined by him. Therefore thou shalt deal kindly with thy servant; for thou hast brought thy servant into a covenant with thee, and if there be any iniquity in me, slay me thyself; for why shouldest thou bring me to thy father?”

David outlines a plan to test Saul’s intentions. His absence from the New Moon feast, a significant event, will serve as a litmus test. If Saul inquires about David’s absence and accepts Jonathan’s explanation, David is safe. But if Saul reacts with anger, it confirms his murderous intent. David’s request reveals the depth of his vulnerability and his complete trust in Jonathan’s integrity. The geographical context is important: Bethlehem, David’s birthplace, held deep personal and ancestral significance. The yearly sacrifice was a sacred communal event, emphasizing the importance of family and religious tradition in Israelite society. This plan, fraught with risk, highlights the strategic intelligence of David and the courage of Jonathan, who were willing to put themselves in danger to reveal the truth. The plan demonstrates the need for both wisdom and courage when facing perilous situations, echoing the call to be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16 KJV).

Spiritual Application: In discerning God’s will in uncertain situations, seek wise counsel and devise a thoughtful plan, recognizing the need for both prudence and courage.

1 Samuel 20:10-17 (KJV)

“Then said Jonathan unto David, Who shall tell me? or what if thy father answer thee roughly? And David said unto Jonathan, Who shall tell me? or what if thy father answer thee roughly? If I understand certainly that evil is determined by my father to come upon thee, then wilt not thou shew it me? And Jonathan said unto David, The Lord forbid: if I knew certainly that evil were determined by my father to come upon thee, then would not I tell it thee? Then said David to Jonathan, Who shall tell me? or what if thy father answer thee roughly? And Jonathan said unto David, Come, and let us go out into the field. And they went out both of them into the field. And Jonathan said unto David, O Lord God of Israel, when I have sounded my father about to morrow any time, or the third day, and, behold, if there be good toward David, and I then send not unto thee, and shew it thee; the Lord do so and much more to Jonathan: but if it please my father to do thee evil, then I will shew it thee, and send thee away, that thou mayest go in peace: and the Lord be with thee, as he hath been with my father. And thou shalt not only while I yet live shew me the kindness of the Lord, that I die not: but also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever: no, not when the Lord hath cut off the enemies of David every one from the face of the earth. So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, Let the Lord even require it at the hand of David’s enemies. And Jonathan caused David to swear again, because he loved him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul.”

This passage underscores the mutual concern and commitment between David and Jonathan. They formalize a communication strategy and reiterate their loyalty to each other. Jonathan invokes God as a witness to their covenant, emphasizing its sacred nature. This divine affirmation transforms their friendship into a holy bond, a mirror of the divine love. The invocation of God’s name is more than a formality; it’s a recognition of God’s sovereignty and a plea for His blessing and protection. Saint Basil the Great, in his “Homilies on the Psalms,” emphasized the importance of invoking God’s name in times of distress and need (Homiliae in Psalmos, PG 29:209). The emphasis on the “house of David” foreshadows David’s future kingship and the enduring nature of their covenant beyond their individual lives. Their friendship becomes a model for future generations.

Spiritual Application: Ground your friendships and commitments in God, recognizing His sovereignty and seeking His blessing upon your relationships. Value relationships above personal safety.

1 Samuel 20:18-23 (KJV)

“Then Jonathan said to David, To morrow is the new moon: and thou shalt be missed, because thy seat will be empty. And when thou hast stayed three days, then thou shalt go down quickly, and come to the place where thou didst hide thyself when the business was in hand, and shalt remain by the stone Ezel. And I will shoot three arrows on the side thereof, as though I shot at a mark. And, behold, I will send a lad, saying, Go, find out the arrows. If I expressly say unto the lad, Behold, the arrows are on this side of thee, take them; then come thou: for there is peace to thee, and no hurt, as the Lord liveth. But if I say thus unto the young man, Behold, the arrows are beyond thee; go thy way: for the Lord hath sent thee away. And as touching the matter which thou and I have spoken of, behold, the Lord is between thee and me for ever.”

Jonathan outlines the secret code: the arrows. The location of the arrows and the instructions given to the lad will convey Saul’s intentions to David. This intricate plan underscores the precariousness of their situation and the lengths they go to maintain their covenant. The symbolism of the arrows is striking. The arrows shot “on this side” represent safety and reconciliation, while those “beyond thee” signify danger and exile. This act of communication, albeit through a seemingly arbitrary method, reveals their resourcefulness and commitment to their agreement. The phrase, “the Lord is between thee and me forever,” reinforces the eternal dimension of their covenant. Their commitment is not just for the present but extends into eternity.

Spiritual Application: Honor commitments and seek creative ways to communicate and uphold agreements, even in challenging circumstances. Always remember to put God first.

1 Samuel 20:24-34 (KJV)

“So David hid himself in the field: and when the new moon was come, the king sat him down to eat meat. And the king sat upon his seat, as at other times, even upon a seat by the wall: and Jonathan arose, and Abner sat by Saul’s side, and David’s place was empty. Nevertheless Saul spake not any thing that day: but on the morrow, which was the second day of the month, it came to pass, that David’s place was empty: and Saul said unto Jonathan, Wherefore cometh not the son of Jesse to meat, neither yesterday, nor to day? And Jonathan answered Saul, David earnestly asked leave of me to go to Bethlehem: For he said, Let me go, I pray thee, for our family hath a sacrifice in the city; and my brother hath commanded me to be there: and now, if I have found favour in thine eyes, let me get away, I pray thee, and see my brethren. Therefore he cometh not unto the king’s table. Then Saul’s anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him, Thou son of the perverse rebellious woman, do not I know that thou hast chosen the son of Jesse to thine own confusion, and unto the confusion of thy mother’s nakedness? For as long as the son of Jesse liveth upon the ground, thou shalt not be established, nor thy kingdom. Wherefore now send and fetch him unto me, for he shall surely die. And Jonathan answered Saul his father, and said unto him, Wherefore shall he be slain? what hath he done? And Saul cast a javelin at him to smite him: whereby Jonathan knew that it was determined of his father to slay David.”

The test unfolds. Saul’s initial silence gives way to explosive anger when David’s absence is noted on the second day. Saul’s accusations against Jonathan reveal his paranoia and insecurity. The reference to Jonathan’s mother is a deliberate insult, intended to humiliate and shame him. Jonathan’s defense of David provokes Saul to violence, confirming his murderous intent. This dramatic confrontation underscores the destructive power of jealousy and the consequences of unchecked anger. This event shows how sin can distort a person’s judgment, even leading to acts of violence against those they love. Saint John Chrysostom, in his homilies, cautions against the dangers of anger, noting that it can cloud our reason and lead us to act rashly (Homiliae in Matthaeum, PG 57:319). Jonathan’s bravery in questioning his father, even at the risk of his own life, is a testament to his unwavering loyalty to David and his commitment to justice.

Spiritual Application: Guard against the destructive emotions of jealousy and anger. Stand up for what is right, even when it involves personal risk. Defend those who are being unjustly treated, even if it is not popular.

1 Samuel 20:35-42 (KJV)

“And it came to pass in the morning, that Jonathan went out into the field at the time appointed with David, and a little lad with him. And he said unto his lad, Run, find out now the arrows which I shoot. And as the lad ran, he shot an arrow beyond him. And when the lad was come to the place of the arrow which Jonathan had shot, Jonathan cried after the lad, and said, Is not the arrow beyond thee? And Jonathan cried after the lad, Make speed, haste, stay not. And Jonathan’s lad gathered up the arrows, and came to his master. But the lad knew not any thing: only Jonathan and David knew the matter. And Jonathan gave his artillery unto his lad, and said unto him, Go, carry them to the city. And as soon as the lad was gone, David arose out of a place toward the south, and fell on his face to the ground, and bowed himself three times: and they kissed one another, and wept one with another, until David exceeded. And Jonathan said to David, Go in peace, forasmuch as we have sworn both of us in the name of the Lord, saying, The Lord be between me and thee, and between my seed and thy seed for ever. And he arose and departed: and Jonathan went into the city.”

The prearranged signal is executed. Jonathan shoots the arrow beyond the lad, conveying the message of danger to David. The lad, oblivious to the true meaning, represents the ignorance of those who are unaware of the spiritual battles raging around them. David’s reaction – bowing three times and weeping – reflects the depth of his sorrow and the profound sense of loss at parting from Jonathan. The three bows, in Coptic tradition, can be seen as symbolic of reverence for the Holy Trinity. Their parting is not just a physical separation but a recognition of the perilous path that David must now walk. Jonathan’s final words, “Go in peace,” are not merely a farewell but a blessing, invoking God’s protection upon David. The covenant is reaffirmed, promising enduring loyalty between their descendants. This scene reminds us of the sorrow and sacrifice often required in faithful obedience to God’s calling.

Spiritual Application: Recognize the presence of spiritual battles and seek discernment. Embrace the sorrow that may accompany obedience to God’s will. Seek God’s peace and protection in times of adversity.

Subtopic Sections ✨

Here are a few key reflections and teachings derived from the narrative of David and Jonathan’s covenant:

• Unwavering Loyalty: The cornerstone of their relationship, it inspires us to be dependable in our own commitments.
• Sacrificial Love: Exemplifies Christ-like love, placing another’s needs above one’s own safety and comfort.
• Divine Providence: Shows God’s guiding hand in even the most treacherous circumstances.
• Courage in the Face of Fear: Jonathan risked his own life to uphold their covenant and protect David.
• Eternal Covenant: Their bond symbolizes an everlasting promise and commitment, demonstrating the lasting impact that true friendship can have.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about David and Jonathan’s covenant.

Q: What was the significance of the New Moon feast in ancient Israel?

A: The New Moon feast marked the beginning of each month and was a time of celebration and sacrifice. Absence from this feast, particularly for someone of David’s stature, would have been immediately noticeable, making it an ideal way to test Saul’s intentions. It served as a civic and religious marker.

Q: Why did Jonathan risk his life for David?

A: Jonathan loved David as he loved his own soul (1 Samuel 20:17 KJV). Their bond was more than just friendship; it was a covenant sealed with mutual respect, admiration, and loyalty. Jonathan recognized David’s divine anointing and was willing to stand by him, even against his own father, the king.

Q: How does the story of David and Jonathan relate to Christian teachings?

A: Their story provides a powerful example of sacrificial love, loyalty, and faithfulness, mirroring the love that Christ has for His Church. Jonathan’s willingness to risk his life for David echoes Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross for humanity. Their covenant serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping our promises and upholding our commitments to one another.

Q: What practical lessons can we learn from David and Jonathan’s relationship?

A: We can learn the importance of cultivating genuine friendships, being loyal to those we love, standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult, and trusting in God’s providence during times of adversity. Their story inspires us to be more Christ-like in our relationships and to strive for a deeper level of commitment and faithfulness.

Conclusion ✨

The story of David and Jonathan in 1 Samuel 20 offers a timeless lesson in loyalty, sacrifice, and faith in divine providence. Facing treachery and potential death, their bond of friendship demonstrates the strength that can be found in unwavering commitment and mutual support. Jonathan’s actions embody Christ-like love, placing David’s well-being above his own safety and familial duty. The chapter illustrates how God can work through human relationships to fulfill His purposes, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. The covenant between David and Jonathan serves as an enduring example of genuine brotherhood, inspiring us to cultivate deep, meaningful connections grounded in faith and mutual respect. This chapter calls us to examine our own relationships, encouraging us to be unwavering in our loyalty and steadfast in our commitment to those whom God has placed in our lives. Understanding David and Jonathan’s Covenant in 1 Samuel 20 can help us grow closer to God and to others.

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David, Jonathan, Covenant, Loyalty, Friendship, Saul, Treachery, Sacrifice, Faith, Divine Providence

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Explore the powerful covenant between David and Jonathan in 1 Samuel 20. Discover lessons in loyalty, sacrifice, and divine providence for modern Christians.