1 Samuel 20:15

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

But also thou shalt not cut off {H3772} thy kindness {H2617} from my house {H1004} for {H5704} ever {H5769}: no, not when the LORD {H3068} hath cut off {H3772} the enemies {H341} of David {H1732} every one {H376} from the face {H6440} of the earth {H127}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but also, after ADONAI has eliminated every one of David's enemies from the face of the earth, you are to continue showing kindness to my family forever."

Berean Standard Bible

and do not ever cut off your loving devotion from my household—not even when the LORD cuts off every one of David’s enemies from the face of the earth.”

American Standard Version

but also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever; no, not when Jehovah hath cut off the enemies of David every one from the face of the earth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 20:15 captures a pivotal moment in the profound covenant friendship between Jonathan and David. With remarkable foresight and humility, Jonathan, recognizing God's sovereign decree to establish David as the future king, requests that David extend his unwavering loyal love, or *chesed*, not only to Jonathan himself but perpetually to his descendants. This plea is made in anticipation of the time when David's kingdom will be fully secured and all his enemies eradicated by the Lord, highlighting Jonathan's selfless devotion, his deep trust in David, and his acknowledgment of divine providence amidst a volatile political landscape.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the narrative of Jonathan and David's covenant friendship, set against the backdrop of King Saul's increasingly murderous jealousy towards David. Immediately preceding this, [1 Samuel 20](/1_samuel/20 "1 Samuel 20 - Jonathan's Loyalty to David") details Jonathan's confirmation of Saul's intent to kill David, leading to a renewal and deepening of their existing covenant (cf. [1 Samuel 18:3](/1_samuel/18-3 "1 Samuel 18:3 - The Covenant Between David and Jonathan")). Jonathan's words in [1 Samuel 20:13-14](/1_samuel/20-13-14 "1 Samuel 20:13-14 - Jonathan's Oath and Prophecy") reveal his clear understanding and acceptance that David is divinely chosen to be king and that the Lord will indeed "cut off" David's enemies. Verse 15, therefore, is Jonathan's specific, humble, and poignant request for David to remember and uphold their sacred covenant, extending its benefits and protection to Jonathan's future "house" or lineage, thereby mitigating the common ancient Near Eastern practice of new kings eliminating rival royal lines.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near East was characterized by dynastic transitions often marked by violence and the systematic elimination of potential rivals from the previous ruling family. This brutal practice was a common method for a new king, especially one from a different lineage, to consolidate power and prevent future rebellions. Biblical examples, such as Baasha's eradication of Jeroboam's house in [1 Kings 15:29](/1_kings/15-29 "1 Kings 15:29 - Baasha Destroys Jeroboam's House") or Jehu's purge of Ahab's descendants in [2 Kings 10:1-11](/2_kings/10-1-11 "2 Kings 10:1-11 - Jehu's Purge of Ahab's House"), illustrate this grim reality. Jonathan's request is a desperate yet hopeful attempt to secure the safety and preservation of his family against this well-established historical precedent. Central to this culture was the concept of a covenant, a solemn and binding agreement often sealed with an oath before God, carrying profound implications and obligations for both parties and their descendants.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several enduring themes. First, it exemplifies **Enduring Loyalty and Friendship**, showcasing Jonathan's extraordinary devotion to David, where he selflessly prioritizes David's divinely ordained destiny over his own dynastic claims. This friendship serves as a profound model of selfless love and commitment, echoing the ideal of a faithful friend found in [Proverbs 17:17](/proverbs/17-17 "Proverbs 17:17 - A Friend Loves at All Times"). Second, **Covenant Faithfulness** is paramount, as Jonathan appeals to the sacred nature of their oath, underscoring the vital importance of keeping promises, particularly those made under divine witness. Third, the verse reveals a deep **Concern for Future Generations**, as Jonathan's remarkable foresight extends beyond his own lifespan, demonstrating a profound care for the long-term well-being and security of his descendants. Finally, **Divine Sovereignty** is explicitly acknowledged; Jonathan's phrasing, "when the LORD hath cut off the enemies of David," confirms his unwavering understanding that God is ultimately in control of history, orchestrating the rise of David's kingdom, even as Jonathan seeks to secure his family's place within that divine plan.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **kindness (Hebrew, _chêçêd'_):** This is one of the most significant theological terms in the Old Testament, often translated as "loyal love," "steadfast affection," "covenant faithfulness," or "mercy." Derived from H2617, it describes a deep, enduring commitment that transcends mere sentiment, rooted in a relationship or covenant. Jonathan is not merely asking for a favor but for David to uphold his covenant obligations with an unwavering, loyal love that extends across generations, mirroring God's own *chesed* towards His people.
* **cut off (Hebrew, _kârath'_):** From H3772, this verb carries significant weight. While it can mean to "cut off" in the sense of destruction or eradication (as in "cutting off" enemies or a lineage), it is also the standard verb used for "making" or "cutting" a covenant (e.g., "to cut a covenant"). Jonathan's plea for David *not* to "cut off" his *chesed* stands in stark contrast to the Lord *cutting off* David's enemies, highlighting the dual nature of the term and Jonathan's desire for preservation rather than destruction for his family.
* **house (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** Derived from H1004, in this context, "house" refers not merely to a physical dwelling but to a lineage, a family, or a dynasty. Jonathan is concerned for the continuation and well-being of his entire family line, understanding that David's rise to power could easily mean the eradication of Saul's "house," a common practice for new monarchs.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But [also] thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever:"** Jonathan appeals to David to maintain their covenant relationship and extend his *chesed*—his loyal, covenantal love and protection—to Jonathan's descendants indefinitely. This reveals Jonathan's profound understanding of the implications of David's future kingship and his desire to secure his family's safety from the common practice of eliminating rival royal lines.
* **"no, not when the LORD hath cut off the enemies of David every one from the face of the earth."** This clause sets the condition for Jonathan's request, demonstrating his absolute certainty in David's future triumph and God's sovereign hand in it. Jonathan acknowledges that David's reign will be established by divine power, and that all opposition will be removed. It is precisely at this moment of David's ultimate power and security that Jonathan seeks assurance for his family's future, highlighting his trust in David's character and God's faithfulness.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices that enrich its meaning. **Contrast** is prominently featured, juxtaposing Jonathan's plea for David *not* to "cut off" his *chesed* from his house with the Lord's action of "cutting off" David's enemies. This highlights the stark difference between acts of covenantal preservation and acts of divine judgment and destruction. There is also strong **Foreshadowing**, as Jonathan's words accurately predict David's eventual kingship and the complete demise of his adversaries, including Saul's house. This prophetic insight underscores Jonathan's faith and acceptance of God's overarching plan. Furthermore, the pervasive use of **Covenant Language** throughout the passage, particularly with the terms *chesed* and *karath*, imbues the interaction with solemnity and profound theological depth, emphasizing the binding and sacred nature of their agreement before God. Finally, a subtle **Irony** pervades the situation, as Saul, the reigning king, desperately seeks to "cut off" David, the future king, while his own son, Jonathan, actively seeks to preserve his "house" through a covenant of *chesed* with the very man his father intends to destroy.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jonathan's earnest request for enduring *chesed* from David is a profound echo of God's own character and His unwavering covenantal faithfulness. Just as Jonathan, a human prince, sought to secure a future of loyal love and protection for his house, so too does God, the ultimate King, extend His unfailing *chesed* to His people. This divine *chesed* is the very foundation of salvation history, ensuring that God's promises, once made, are eternally binding and extend through generations, not based on human merit but on His divine commitment. Jonathan's selfless act of seeking protection for his descendants, even at the cost of his own dynastic claim, points to the broader biblical truth that true loyalty and love often involve sacrifice and a deep concern for the well-being of others beyond oneself, perfectly reflecting the very heart of God.

* [2 Samuel 9:1-7](/2_samuel/9-1-7 "David's Kindness to Mephibosheth")
* [Deuteronomy 7:9](/deuteronomy/7-9 "God's Faithfulness to His Covenant")
* [Psalm 89:28-34](/psalm/89-28-34 "God's Enduring Covenant with David")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jonathan's selfless plea in 1 Samuel 20:15 offers timeless lessons for believers navigating relationships, promises, and divine sovereignty. His remarkable willingness to prioritize David's divinely ordained future over his own personal ambition or dynastic claims is a powerful example of humility, self-sacrifice, and profound trust in God's greater plan. It challenges us to examine our own loyalties: are we truly committed to the well-being of others, even when it costs us something or means relinquishing personal advantage? The enduring nature of the *chesed* Jonathan sought reminds us of the profound importance of keeping our word and honoring our commitments, especially those made in solemn covenant before God. Just as David later demonstrated this *chesed* to Mephibosheth, we are called to extend grace, faithfulness, and loyal love to those around us, reflecting the very character of God who is abundant in steadfast love. Furthermore, Jonathan's deep concern for future generations prompts us to consider the long-term impact of our decisions, encouraging us to live in a way that blesses those who come after us, leaving a legacy of faith, integrity, and Christ-like love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jonathan's selfless loyalty to David challenge my own understanding of friendship and commitment in my relationships?**
* **In what practical ways can I demonstrate "loyal love" (*chesed*) to others in my life, particularly when it requires personal sacrifice or inconvenience?**
* **What promises have I made, and how faithfully am I striving to uphold them, recognizing the importance of my word and integrity?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater trust in God's sovereign plan for my life, even when it diverges from my personal ambitions or desires?**
* **What kind of spiritual and relational legacy am I building for future generations, both within my family and in my broader community?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jonathan make this request, knowing David would be king?**

Answer: Jonathan's request was born out of a profound understanding of both divine sovereignty and the harsh realities of ancient Near Eastern politics. He had already recognized that the Lord had chosen David to be king, as seen in his prophetic words in [1 Samuel 20:13](/1_samuel/20-13 "1 Samuel 20:13 - Jonathan's Recognition of David's Kingship"). Knowing that new kings often eradicated the previous royal line to secure their throne, Jonathan, in an act of incredible selflessness and foresight, sought to protect his descendants. His request for David's *chesed* (loyal love/covenant faithfulness) was a plea for his family's survival and well-being, trusting in David's character and their covenant even amidst the inevitable shift of power.

**What is the significance of "kindness" (*chesed*) in this verse?**

Answer: The Hebrew word *chesed* (often transliterated *hesed*) is far richer than simple "kindness." It encompasses loyal love, steadfast affection, covenant faithfulness, and mercy. When Jonathan asks David not to "cut off his *chesed*," he is appealing to the deepest form of covenant loyalty. It implies an enduring, unwavering commitment that transcends circumstances and extends through generations. This is the same profound word used to describe God's own faithful love for His people, highlighting the profound and binding nature of the relationship Jonathan sought to secure with David for his family.

**How was Jonathan's request fulfilled by David?**

Answer: David faithfully honored his covenant with Jonathan, demonstrating remarkable *chesed* to Jonathan's house. The most prominent and moving example is found in [2 Samuel 9](/2_samuel/9 "2 Samuel 9 - David's Kindness to Mephibosheth"), where David actively seeks out Mephibosheth, Jonathan's disabled son. David restores all of Saul's land to Mephibosheth and invites him to eat at the king's table continually, treating him as one of his own sons, as if he were part of the royal family. This act was a direct and powerful fulfillment of the oath made in [1 Samuel 20:15](/1_samuel/20-15 "1 Samuel 20:15 - Jonathan's Request to David") and a lasting testament to David's integrity and faithfulness to his covenant with Jonathan.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jonathan's selfless request for enduring *chesed* from David, the anointed king, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Jonathan, the son of a king who would be rejected, humbly recognized the true King and sought a covenant of loyal love that would preserve his house. Similarly, humanity, alienated from God by sin, finds its preservation and eternal well-being not through its own merit, but through the enduring *chesed* of God demonstrated in Christ. Jesus, the Son of David, is the King whose kingdom is truly eternal and whose covenant of grace is everlasting, as foretold in [Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32-33 "Luke 1:32-33 - The Eternal Kingdom of Jesus"). Unlike earthly kings who might "cut off" their enemies, Christ, through His ultimate sacrifice on the cross, "cut off" the power of sin and death, offering eternal life and reconciliation to all who believe. His *chesed* is not merely a promise but a living reality, for He is "the same yesterday and today and forever" ([Hebrews 13:8](/hebrews/13-8 "Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ the Same Yesterday, Today, and Forever")). We, the spiritual "house" of God, are the undeserving recipients of His "rich in mercy" and "great love with which he loved us" ([Ephesians 2:4-7](/ephesians/2-4-7 "Ephesians 2:4-7 - God's Rich Mercy and Kindness")). Jonathan's self-sacrificial love for David, prioritizing the future king, beautifully foreshadows Christ's ultimate act of love, laying down His life for His friends ([John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love Has No One Than This")), thereby securing our eternal place in His unshakable kingdom.

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

2 Samuel 21:7

But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan the son of Saul, because of the LORD'S oath that [was] between them, between David and Jonathan the son of Saul.

1 Samuel 24:21

Swear now therefore unto me by the LORD, that thou wilt not cut off my seed after me, and that thou wilt not destroy my name out of my father's house.

2 Samuel 9:1

¶ And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan's sake?

2 Samuel 9:7

And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will surely shew thee kindness for Jonathan thy father's sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul thy father; and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually.