1 Samuel 14:4

KJV

And between the passages, by which Jonathan sought to go over unto the Philistines' garrison, [there was] a sharp rock on the one side, and a sharp rock on the other side: and the name of the one [was] Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

KJV (with Strong's)

And between the passages {H4569}, by which Jonathan {H3129} sought {H1245} to go over {H5674} unto the Philistines {H6430}' garrison {H4673}, there was a sharp {H8127} rock {H5553} on the one side {H5676}, and a sharp {H8127} rock {H5553} on the other side {H5676}: and the name {H8034} of the one {H259} was Bozez {H949}, and the name {H8034} of the other {H259} Seneh {H5573}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Between the passes by which Y'honatan was trying to cross to the garrison of the P'lishtim, there was a rocky spur on one side and another rocky spur on the other side; the name of the one was Botzetz, and of the other, Seneh.

Berean Standard Bible

Now there were cliffs on both sides of the pass that Jonathan intended to cross to reach the Philistine outpost. One was named Bozez and the other Seneh.

American Standard Version

And between the passes, by which Jonathan sought to go over unto the Philistines’ garrison, there was a rocky crag on the one side, and a rocky crag on the other side: and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 14:4 provides a meticulously detailed geographical description of the treacherous terrain Jonathan intended to traverse to reach the Philistine garrison. It highlights a narrow passage flanked by two formidable, sharp rock formations, specifically named Bozez and Seneh. This vivid portrayal is far more than a mere scenic backdrop; it functions as a stark representation of the immense natural barrier and extreme peril Jonathan was about to confront, thereby profoundly setting the stage for an extraordinary act of faith, courage, and ultimately, divine intervention in the ongoing, desperate conflict between Israel and the Philistines.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the immediate physical setting for Jonathan's audacious, faith-driven assault on a Philistine outpost, undertaken with only his armor-bearer, as detailed in [1 Samuel 14:1-15](/1-samuel/14-1-15 "1 Samuel 14:1-15 - Jonathan's Daring Attack and God's Deliverance"). The precise description of the terrain—the "passages" and "sharp rocks"—is crucial, as it amplifies the immense difficulty and inherent danger of his chosen path, thereby magnifying the extraordinary courage and conviction required for his solo initiative. This passage stands in stark contrast to the preceding narrative, which depicts King Saul and the Israelite army as paralyzed by fear, indecision, and a severe lack of weaponry, largely due to the Philistines' military superiority and their policy of disarming Israel, a situation powerfully illustrated in [1 Samuel 13:19-22](/1-samuel/13-19-22 "1 Samuel 13:19-22 - Philistine Oppression and Israel's Disarmament"). Thus, [1 Samuel 14:4](/1-samuel/14-4 "1 Samuel 14:4 - The Perilous Passage") underscores the seemingly insurmountable odds that Jonathan, driven by an unwavering trust in God, was willing to face.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period described in 1 Samuel was characterized by a protracted and often desperate conflict between the nascent Israelite monarchy and the technologically superior Philistines. The Philistines held a significant military advantage, particularly in ironworking, which allowed them to monopolize weapons production and repair, effectively disarming the Israelites. The geographical setting of this verse is the rugged terrain between Micmash and Geba, specifically the Wadi Suweinit, a deep and formidable gorge that served as a natural defensive barrier. This wadi was strategically vital, controlling access between the central Benjamin plateau and the Jordan Valley. The "passages" (Hebrew: _maʻăbâr_) refer to the steep, narrow defiles or mountain passes within this gorge. The Philistines had established garrisons at key strategic points like Micmash to maintain their control over the region and suppress any Israelite uprising. The "sharp rocks" (Hebrew: _shen ha-selaʻ_, literally "tooth of the rock") were prominent, named geological features within this difficult landscape, making the path exceptionally hazardous and easily defensible by a small force.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous topographical detail in [1 Samuel 14:4](/1-samuel/14-4 "1 Samuel 14:4 - The Passageway of Peril") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of 1 Samuel. Firstly, it powerfully emphasizes the **overwhelming obstacles** faced by Israel, both physical and military, highlighting the dire circumstances that necessitated divine intervention. The named rocks, Bozez and Seneh, become tangible representations of these challenges. Secondly, the verse powerfully illustrates **Jonathan's extraordinary faith and courage**, which stand in stark contrast to the fear, inaction, and spiritual paralysis of King Saul and the majority of the Israelite army, as seen in [1 Samuel 14:3](/1-samuel/14-3 "1 Samuel 14:3 - Saul's Position and the Ark"). Jonathan's willingness to confront such a formidable natural barrier with only one companion speaks volumes about his profound trust in God's ability to deliver, regardless of human strength or numbers, a conviction he articulates explicitly in [1 Samuel 14:6](/1-samuel/14-6 "1 Samuel 14:6 - Jonathan's Declaration of Faith"). Finally, the verse serves as crucial **foreshadowing for divine deliverance**, establishing a scenario where any success achieved through such an impossible path could only be attributed to God, thereby magnifying His glory and demonstrating that victory is not by human might or power, but solely by His Spirit.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Bozez (H949, Hebrew, _Bôwtsêts'_):** This proper noun, derived from a root meaning "to shine" or "to glisten," suggests a prominent, possibly smooth, or reflective rock face. Its visibility would have made it a well-known landmark in the treacherous terrain, perhaps even indicating a slippery or exposed surface, which would have added to the peril of the passage. The name itself paints a picture of a distinct and imposing feature.
* **Seneh (H5573, Hebrew, _Çeneh'_):** Also a proper noun, this name is identical to the Hebrew word for "thornbush" or "acacia." This implies a rock that was either covered in dense, thorny vegetation, making passage difficult, or possessed a jagged, sharp, and unyielding appearance itself, resembling thorns. This imagery further emphasizes the difficulty, pain, and inherent danger involved in attempting to traverse the narrow and constricted passage between these two named formations.
* **Sharp (H8127, Hebrew, _shên_):** Literally meaning "tooth," this word is used metaphorically here to describe the jagged, pointed, and formidable nature of the rock formations. When combined with _çelaʻ_ (rock, H5553), as in "sharp rock" (_shen ha-selaʻ_), it vividly conveys a sense of danger and impenetrability. It reinforces the idea that these were not merely hills but imposing, almost predatory, geological features that presented a significant physical threat and barrier.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And between the passages, by which Jonathan sought to go over unto the Philistines' garrison":** This opening clause precisely locates the scene of Jonathan's impending, audacious action. It identifies the specific, narrow defiles or mountain passes within the wadi that he intended to use, immediately establishing his objective: to penetrate directly into the enemy's fortified position. The phrase "sought to go over" (Hebrew: _bâqash ʻâbar_) indicates a deliberate and determined intention to cross, despite the known difficulties.
* **"[there was] a sharp rock on the one side, and a sharp rock on the other side":** This phrase describes the critical bottleneck of the passage. The imagery of "sharp rocks" (literally "teeth of the rock") on both sides powerfully emphasizes the extreme narrowness, difficulty, and inherent danger of the path. It highlights that the route was not merely challenging but a formidable natural obstacle, easily defensible and presenting a significant physical barrier.
* **"and the name of the one [was] Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh":** The naming of these specific geological features underscores their prominence and significance in the local topography. It adds a layer of realism and detail, indicating that these were well-known, perhaps even notorious, landmarks that defined the treacherous nature of the route Jonathan was about to undertake. The names themselves contribute to the descriptive power, hinting at the rocks' physical characteristics and the peril they represented.

#### Literary Devices
The author of 1 Samuel employs several potent literary devices in [1 Samuel 14:4](/1-samuel/14-4 "1 Samuel 14:4 - The Treacherous Pass") to enhance the narrative's impact and theological depth. **Topographical Detail** is paramount, providing a vivid and precise description of the "sharp rocks" and "passages," which grounds the story in a tangible, perilous reality. This detailed setting is not mere background; it functions as profound **Symbolism**, where the formidable natural obstacles of Bozez and Seneh represent the seemingly insurmountable challenges, both physical and spiritual, that stand before God's people. The verse also utilizes **Foreshadowing**, as the extreme difficulty and named nature of the terrain subtly hint at the miraculous nature of the victory that is about to unfold. It implies that any success achieved through such a path must be attributed to divine power rather than human strength or ingenuity. Furthermore, there is an implicit **Contrast** between the specific, named, and formidable obstacles Jonathan faces and the general, unnamed fear and inaction of the Israelite army and King Saul, highlighting Jonathan's unique faith and courage. The **Personification** of the rocks as having "teeth" (sharp rock) also adds to their menacing and formidable character.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 14:4, with its vivid description of the formidable "sharp rocks" of Bozez and Seneh, serves as a powerful theological statement about the nature of obstacles and divine intervention. It underscores that God often places His people in seemingly impossible situations, not to defeat them, but to demonstrate His power and faithfulness. Jonathan's willingness to confront these physical barriers, despite the overwhelming odds and the apparent impossibility of the path, reflects a profound trust in God's ability to save "by many or by few." This passage teaches that true faith does not ignore the magnitude of the challenge but rather sees it as an opportunity for God's glory to be revealed. The very impossibility of the path magnifies the subsequent divine deliverance, ensuring that the victory is undeniably God's, proving that His strength is perfected in weakness.

* [Psalm 18:29](/psalm/18-29 "Psalm 18:29 - Leaping Over Walls by God's Strength")
* [Matthew 19:26](/matthew/19-26 "Matthew 19:26 - With God All Things Are Possible")
* [Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The description of Bozez and Seneh in [1 Samuel 14:4](/1-samuel/14-4 "1 Samuel 14:4 - The Impassable Passage") offers a profound and timeless lesson for contemporary believers. Just as Jonathan faced a literal, physically imposing barrier, we too encounter "sharp rocks" and "thornbushes" in our lives—challenges that seem insurmountable, whether they are personal struggles, professional hurdles, relational conflicts, spiritual battles, or societal injustices. This verse, as a prelude to Jonathan's miraculous victory, encourages us not to be paralyzed by the apparent impossibility of our circumstances. Instead, it calls us to cultivate a faith that acknowledges the obstacle but trusts in a God who specializes in making a way where there seems to be no way, a God whose power is fully revealed in our weakness. Our honest assessment of the difficulty should not lead to despair or inaction, but to a deeper dependence on God's omnipotent power. When we step out in faith, even a small step, into a situation that humanly seems impossible, we create the necessary space for God to display His miraculous strength, ensuring that any success achieved brings Him glory, not ourselves.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "sharp rocks" or "thornbushes" (obstacles) are you currently facing in your life that seem to block your path or progress, causing you to hesitate?**
* **How does Jonathan's willingness to confront these formidable physical barriers challenge your approach to your own spiritual or personal difficulties, especially when they appear overwhelming?**
* **In what specific ways might God be calling you to step out in faith, even when the path before you appears narrow, dangerous, or humanly impossible, trusting Him for the outcome?**

### FAQ
**Why are the names of the rocks, Bozez and Seneh, specifically mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The mention of the specific names, Bozez ("shining" or "glistening") and Seneh ("thornbush" or "acacia"), serves several important purposes within the narrative. Firstly, it adds a crucial layer of geographical realism and specificity to the account, indicating that these were well-known and prominent landmarks in the region. This detail grounds the story in a tangible reality, making the terrain itself almost a character in the unfolding drama. Secondly, the meanings of the names likely describe the inherent nature of the rocks, emphasizing the treacherous and difficult conditions of the passage. "Bozez" might suggest a smooth, exposed, or slippery surface, while "Seneh" could imply jagged, thorny, or impassable terrain, reflecting the literal meaning of a thornbush. By naming these features, the author highlights the extreme danger and formidable nature of the obstacle Jonathan was about to confront, thereby magnifying the courage of his faith and underscoring that the subsequent victory was truly miraculous and divinely orchestrated, not a result of easy passage. This detailed description sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow in [1 Samuel 14](/1-samuel/14 "1 Samuel 14 - Jonathan's Victory and God's Deliverance").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The formidable "sharp rocks" of Bozez and Seneh, representing an impassable barrier to human effort and a symbol of overwhelming odds, powerfully foreshadow the ultimate, seemingly insurmountable obstacle of sin and death that stood between fallen humanity and a holy God. Just as Jonathan, driven by faith and a divine impulse, dared to confront a physical impossibility, so too did Jesus Christ, the true Son of God, confront the ultimate spiritual impossibility: the power of sin, the curse of the Law, and the dominion of death. He did not merely find a way through the "passages" of human limitation; He became the Way, the Truth, and the Life, the sole path to the Father ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Through His crucifixion, burial, and glorious resurrection, Christ confronted the "sharp rocks" of humanity's condemnation and the "thornbushes" of spiritual death, utterly disarming the principalities and powers of darkness and triumphing over them on the cross ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities")). His victory was not merely a physical deliverance but a cosmic one, securing eternal salvation and a path to God where none existed before, ultimately swallowing up death in victory and ushering in everlasting life ([1 Corinthians 15:54-57](/1-corinthians/15-54-57 "1 Corinthians 15:54-57 - Victory Over Death Through Christ")). Thus, the narrative of Jonathan's daring act, made possible by God's power over physical barriers, points forward to the infinitely greater, redemptive work of Christ, who, by His own perfect sacrifice, abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ's Victory Over Death and the Devil")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 13:23

And the garrison of the Philistines went out to the passage of Michmash.