1 Samuel 14:1

¶ Now it came to pass upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over to the Philistines' garrison, that [is] on the other side. But he told not his father.

Now it came to pass upon a day {H3117}, that Jonathan {H3129} the son {H1121} of Saul {H7586} said {H559} unto the young man {H5288} that bare {H5375} his armour {H3627}, Come {H3212}, and let us go over {H5674} to the Philistines {H6430}' garrison {H4673}, that is on the other side {H5676}{H1975}. But he told {H5046} not his father {H1}.

One day Y'honatan the son of Sha'ul said to the young man carrying his armor, "Come, let's go across to the garrison of the P'lishtim on the other side. But he didn't tell his father.

One day Jonathan son of Saul said to the young man bearing his armor, “Come, let us cross over to the Philistine outpost on the other side.” But Jonathan did not tell his father.

Now it fell upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the young man that bare his armor, Come, and let us go over to the Philistines’ garrison, that is on yonder side. But he told not his father.

Commentary

1 Samuel 14:1 introduces one of the Bible's most compelling acts of individual faith and courage. It sets the stage for a dramatic turning point in the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines. Here, Jonathan, King Saul's son, without his father's knowledge, proposes a daring, two-man assault on a Philistine outpost, demonstrating remarkable initiative and trust.

Historical and Cultural Context

At this point in Israel's history, during the early reign of King Saul, the Philistines were a dominant military power, oppressing Israel and disarming them to prevent rebellion. This verse highlights the tension and fear pervading Israelite society. The Philistines had established garrisons throughout the land, symbolizing their control and constant threat. The Israelite army, though gathered by Saul, was often hesitant and poorly equipped compared to their adversaries, as seen in 1 Samuel 13:19-22. Jonathan, as a prince and a skilled warrior, embodies a different spirit than the general populace or even his father, who often struggled with fear and impatience, as evidenced by his actions in 1 Samuel 13:13-14.

Key Themes

  • Bold Initiative and Courage: Jonathan's decision to act, despite overwhelming odds and without official sanction, showcases immense personal bravery. He doesn't wait for orders or a large army but takes a proactive stance against the oppressor.
  • Faith in Action: While not explicitly stated in this verse, Jonathan's subsequent actions and words in this chapter reveal that his courage is rooted in a deep trust in God's ability to deliver, regardless of numbers. This verse serves as the genesis of that faithful step.
  • Contrasting Leadership: Jonathan's decisiveness stands in stark contrast to Saul's often indecisive or fearful leadership, foreshadowing later tensions and the eventual shift in divine favor.
  • Secrecy and Independence: The detail "But he told not his father" is crucial. It suggests Jonathan's independence of thought, perhaps a recognition that Saul might oppose such a risky venture, or a desire to act quickly without the bureaucracy or fear that might paralyze others.

Linguistic Insights

The term "garrison" (Hebrew: מַצָּבָה, matstsavah) refers to a military outpost or standing post, indicating a fortified position where Philistine soldiers were stationed. The "young man that bare his armour" was not merely a servant but a trusted aide and companion in battle, often sharing the same dangers and responsibilities as the warrior he served. This close relationship underscores the shared risk and trust between Jonathan and his armor-bearer.

Practical Application

Jonathan's audacious move in 1 Samuel 14:1 offers several timeless lessons. It encourages believers to consider taking bold, faith-filled steps when faced with daunting challenges, rather than waiting for perfect conditions or overwhelming support. His example reminds us that God can use even a few committed individuals to accomplish great things. It challenges us to cultivate a spirit of initiative and courage, particularly when others are hesitant or paralyzed by fear. Ultimately, it points to the principle that God's power is not limited by human strength or numbers, but rather by the willingness to step out in faith.

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Cross-References

  • Judges 6:27 (2 votes)

    Then Gideon took ten men of his servants, and did as the LORD had said unto him: and [so] it was, because he feared his father's household, and the men of the city, that he could not do [it] by day, that he did [it] by night.

  • 1 Samuel 13:2 (2 votes)

    Saul chose him three thousand [men] of Israel; [whereof] two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.

  • 2 Samuel 1:25 (2 votes)

    How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle! O Jonathan, [thou wast] slain in thine high places.

  • 2 Samuel 1:26 (2 votes)

    I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women.

  • 1 Samuel 13:22 (2 votes)

    So it came to pass in the day of battle, that there was neither sword nor spear found in the hand of any of the people that [were] with Saul and Jonathan: but with Saul and with Jonathan his son was there found.

  • Micah 7:5 (2 votes)

    Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide: keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.

  • 1 Samuel 25:19 (2 votes)

    And she said unto her servants, Go on before me; behold, I come after you. But she told not her husband Nabal.