1 Samuel 20:1

¶ 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?

And David {H1732} fled {H1272} from Naioth {H5121} in Ramah {H7414}, and came {H935} and said {H559} before {H6440} Jonathan {H3083}, What have I done {H6213}? what is mine iniquity {H5771}? and what is my sin {H2403} before {H6440} thy father {H1}, that he seeketh {H1245} my life {H5315}?

David fled from the prophets' dormitory in Ramah, returned to Y'honatan and said, "What have I done? Where have I gone wrong? What sin have I committed that makes your father want to take my life?"

Then David fled from Naioth in Ramah. He came to Jonathan and asked, “What have I done? What is my iniquity? How have I sinned against your father, that he wants to take my life?”

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?

Commentary

1 Samuel 20:1 opens a pivotal moment in the life of David, marking a desperate turn in his flight from King Saul's murderous intent. Having narrowly escaped Saul's repeated attempts to kill him, even while taking refuge with the prophet Samuel in Naioth, David seeks out his closest confidant and Saul's son, Jonathan, for answers and help.

Context of David's Flight

This verse immediately follows David's dramatic escape from Naioth in Ramah, where King Saul himself was overcome by prophetic ecstasy, temporarily preventing David's capture. David's question to Jonathan – "What have I done? what is mine iniquity? and what is my sin before thy father, that he seeketh my life?" – reveals his utter bewilderment and sense of injustice. Saul's irrational hatred for David had grown from intense jealousy over David's military successes and popularity, as seen in earlier chapters when Saul attempted to kill David with a spear (1 Samuel 19:9-10) and sent messengers to capture him.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Unjust Persecution: David's plea highlights the central theme of an innocent man being hunted by a powerful, jealous ruler. His questions underscore his conviction that he has committed no offense worthy of death.
  • Desperation and Confusion: David's direct confrontation with Jonathan conveys his profound distress and confusion about the source of Saul's relentless animosity. He genuinely seeks to understand what "sin" or "iniquity" could justify such a severe pursuit.
  • The Power of True Friendship: This verse sets the stage for one of the most remarkable friendships in the Bible. David turns to Jonathan, trusting in their deep covenant friendship, knowing that Jonathan's loyalty will be tested by his father's madness.
  • Saul's Spiritual Decline: The King's pursuit of David, driven by envy and paranoia, further illustrates Saul's departure from God's favor and his increasingly unstable mental and spiritual state.

Linguistic Insights

David uses two distinct Hebrew words to express his bewilderment: "iniquity" (עָוֹן, avon) and "sin" (חַטָּאָה, chatta'ah). Avon often refers to perversity or guilt, implying a twisting of justice or a moral wrong that incurs punishment. Chatta'ah, more broadly, means "missing the mark" or a transgression. By using both, David emphasizes that he has committed no moral failing or specific transgression that would warrant Saul's vendetta against his life.

Practical Application

David's experience resonates with anyone who has faced unjust accusations or persecution. This verse reminds us:

  1. Seek Understanding: It is natural to desire to understand why we are being targeted, especially when we believe we are innocent.
  2. Value Loyal Friendships: In times of crisis, true friends like Jonathan are invaluable. They offer support, counsel, and a listening ear when the world seems to turn against you.
  3. Trust in God's Justice: Even when human justice fails and powerful individuals act irrationally, the narrative of David's life consistently points to God's ultimate sovereignty and justice. David's continued trust in God, despite his circumstances, is a powerful example.

This conversation with Jonathan leads to a crucial test of their bond and a detailed plan for David's safety, showcasing Jonathan's unwavering loyalty and commitment to their friendship.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Peter 2:9 (4 votes)

    The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:

  • 1 John 3:21 (3 votes)

    Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, [then] have we confidence toward God.

  • 2 Corinthians 1:12 (3 votes)

    ¶ For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.

  • 1 Samuel 23:26 (2 votes)

    And Saul went on this side of the mountain, and David and his men on that side of the mountain: and David made haste to get away for fear of Saul; for Saul and his men compassed David and his men round about to take them.

  • 1 Samuel 23:28 (2 votes)

    Wherefore Saul returned from pursuing after David, and went against the Philistines: therefore they called that place Selahammahlekoth.

  • Psalms 18:20 (2 votes)

    ¶ The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me.

  • Psalms 18:24 (2 votes)

    Therefore hath the LORD recompensed me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his eyesight.