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Commentary on 1 Samuel 20 verses 9–23
Here, I. Jonathan protests his fidelity to David in his distress. Notwithstanding the strong confidence David had in Jonathan, yet, because he might have some reason to fear that his father's influence, and his own interest, should make him warp, or grow cool towards him, Jonathan thought it requisite solemnly to renew the professions of his friendship to him (Sa1 20:9): "Far be it from thee to think that I suspect thee of any crime for which I should either slay thee myself or deliver thee to my father; no, if thou hast any jealousy of that, Come let us go into the field (Sa1 20:11), and talk it over more fully." He did not challenge him to the field to fight him for an affront, but to fix him in his friendship. He faithfully promised him that he would let him know how, upon trial, he found his father affected towards him, and would make the matter neither better nor worse than it was. "If there be good towards thee, I will show it thee, that thou mayest be easy (Sa1 20:12), if evil, I will send thee away, that thou mayest be safe" (Sa1 20:13); and thus he would help to deliver him from the evil if it were real and from the fear of evil if it were but imaginary. For the confirmation of his promise he appeals to God, 1. As a witness (Sa1 20:12): "O Lord God of Israel, thou knowest I mean sincerely, and think as I speak." The strength of his passion made the manner of his speaking concise and abrupt. 2. As a judge: "The Lord do so and much more to Jonathan (Sa1 20:13), if I speak deceitfully, or break my word with my friend." He expressed himself thus solemnly that David might be abundantly assured of his sincerity. And thus God has confirmed his promises to us, that we might have strong consolation, Heb 6:17, Heb 6:18. Jonathan adds to his protestations his hearty prayers: "The Lord be with thee, to protect and prosper thee, as he has been formerly with my father, though now he has withdrawn." Thus he imitates his belief that David would be in his father's place, and his good wishes that he might prosper in it better than his father now did.
II. He provides for the entail of the covenant of friendship with David upon his posterity, Sa1 20:14-16. He engages David to be a friend to his family when he was gone (Sa1 20:15): Thou shalt promise that thou wilt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever. This he spoke from a natural affection he had to his children, whom he desired it might go well with after his decease, and for whose future welfare he desired to improve his present interest. It also intimates his firm belief of David's advancement, and that it would be in the power of his hand to do a kindness or unkindness to his seed; for, in process of time, the Lord would cut off his enemies, Saul himself was not expected; then "Do not thou cut off thy kindness from my house, nor revenge my father's wrongs upon my children." The house of David must likewise be bound to the house of Jonathan from generation to generation; he made a covenant (Sa1 20:16) with the house of David. Note, True friends cannot but covet to transmit to theirs after them their mutual affections. Thy own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not. This kindness, 1. He calls the kindness of the Lord, because it is such kindness as God shows to those he takes into covenant with himself; for he is a God to them and to their seed; they are beloved for the fathers' sakes. 2. He secures it by an imprecation (Sa1 20:16): The Lord require it at the hand of David's seed (for of David himself he had no suspicion) if they prove so far David's enemies as to deal wrongfully with the posterity of Jonathan, David's friend. He feared lest David, or some of his, should hereafter be tempted, for the clearing and confirming of their title to the throne, to do by his seed as Abimelech had done by the sons of Gideon (Jdg 9:5), and this he would effectually prevent; but the reason given (Sa1 20:17) why Jonathan was so earnest to have the friendship entailed is purely generous, and has nothing of self in it; it was because he loved him as he loved his own soul, and therefore desired that he and his might be beloved by him. David, though now in disgrace at court and in distress, was as amiable in the eyes of Jonathan as ever he had been, and he loved him never the less for his father's hating him, so pure were the principles on which his friendship was built. Having himself sworn to David, he caused David to swear to him, and (as we read it) to swear again, which David consented to (for he that bears an honest mind does not startle at assurances), to swear by his love to him, which he looked upon as a sacred thing. Jonathan's heart was so much upon it that, when they parted this time, he concluded with a solemn appeal to God: The Lord be between me and thee for ever (Sa1 20:23), that is, "God himself be judge between us and our families for ever, if on either side this league of friendship be violated." It was in remembrance of this covenant that David was kind to Mephibosheth, Sa2 9:7; Sa2 21:7. It will be a kindness to ourselves and ours to secure an interest in those whom God favours and to make his friends ours.
III. He settles the method of intelligence, and by what signs and tokens he would give him notice how his father stood affected towards him. David would be missed the first day, or at least the second day, of the new moon, and would be enquired after, Sa1 20:18. On the third day, by which time he would have returned from Bethlehem, he must be at such a place (Sa1 20:19), and Jonathan would come towards that place with his bow and arrows to shoot for diversion (Sa1 20:20), would send his lad to fetch his arrows, and, if they were shot short of the lad, David must take it for a signal of safety, and not be afraid to show his head (Sa1 20:21); but, if he shot beyond the lad, it was a signal of danger, and he must shift for his safety, Sa1 20:22. This expedient he fixed lest he should not have the opportunity, which yet it proved he had, of talking with David, and making the report by word of mouth.
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SUMMARY
Jonathan's urgent communication to David in 1 Samuel 20:18 reveals a pivotal moment in their deep friendship and the escalating danger David faces from King Saul. By informing David that "tomorrow is the new moon" and that his absence will be conspicuously noted due to his "empty seat" at the royal feast, Jonathan sets in motion a carefully devised plan to ascertain Saul's true intentions, underscoring the precariousness of David's position and the unwavering loyalty of Jonathan in protecting his divinely chosen friend.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse serves as a critical juncture in the unfolding drama between David, Jonathan, and King Saul. It immediately follows the profound covenant of friendship sworn between David and Jonathan in 1 Samuel 20:17, where Jonathan reaffirms his loyalty and commitment to David, even to the point of risking his own life and royal inheritance. David, in a state of desperation and hiding, has appealed to Jonathan to discern Saul's true intentions, asking for a clear sign. Jonathan's words in this verse initiate the specific test they have devised, setting the stage for the dramatic confrontation between Saul and Jonathan that will confirm David's need to flee permanently, as detailed in 1 Samuel 20:24-34. Thus, the verse is not merely a statement but a strategic move, propelling the narrative towards its climax concerning David's exile and the enduring strength of Jonathan's self-sacrificial loyalty.
Historical & Cultural Context: The "new moon" (Hebrew: rosh chodesh) was a highly significant monthly festival in ancient Israel, marking the beginning of each new lunar month. It was a time of communal gathering, special sacrifices, and feasting, as mandated by Mosaic Law (e.g., Numbers 28:11-15). Attendance at such a prominent royal feast was expected for key members of the court, especially for someone of David's stature as the king's son-in-law and a celebrated military hero. The absence of a person of this prominence would be immediately noticed, particularly given the customary, often rigid, seating arrangements at royal banquets. This cultural expectation provides the perfect backdrop for Jonathan's plan, as it ensures that David's non-attendance will not be overlooked but will inevitably provoke a reaction from King Saul, thereby revealing his true disposition towards David.
Key Themes: This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes prevalent in the book of Samuel. Foremost is the theme of unwavering loyalty and covenant friendship, exemplified by Jonathan's profound commitment to David, which stands in stark contrast to the escalating jealousy and murderous intent of King Saul, as seen from 1 Samuel 18:9 onward. Jonathan's actions demonstrate a selfless love that transcends familial ties and personal ambition, highlighting the biblical ideal of a true friend. The verse also underscores divine providence and protection, as God orchestrates events—even through human relationships and cultural observances like the new moon feast—to safeguard His chosen anointed one, David. Furthermore, it subtly touches upon the precariousness of power and the abuse of authority, as Saul, the divinely appointed king, seeks to destroy the one whom God has chosen to succeed him, foreshadowing the inevitable transfer of the kingdom from Saul's house to David's, a destiny prophesied in 1 Samuel 15:28.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning and foreshadow future events. Foreshadowing is prominent, as Jonathan's words directly anticipate the dramatic and violent events that will unfold at the new moon feast, particularly King Saul's furious outburst when confronted with David's absence. There is a profound sense of irony in the situation: the king's own son is actively conspiring against his father to protect the man destined to take his father's throne, demonstrating a profound loyalty that transcends familial ties and political ambition. The "empty seat" functions as a powerful symbolism, representing not only David's physical absence from the royal court but also his forced separation from his normal life, his precarious status as an exile, and the growing chasm between him and Saul. It visually encapsulates the immediate danger David faces and the deeper breakdown of unity within the royal family and the kingdom.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully illustrates the themes of divine protection and human loyalty in the face of grave danger. Jonathan's unwavering commitment to David, even at the risk of his own life and royal succession, showcases a profound example of covenant faithfulness that mirrors God's steadfast love for His chosen people. It highlights how God can sovereignly use human relationships, strategic planning, and even cultural observances to orchestrate His divine plan, ensuring the safety of His anointed servant, David. The precariousness of David's situation underscores the suffering of the righteous who are unjustly persecuted, a common motif throughout scripture, reminding us that God is with those who suffer for righteousness' sake.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Samuel 20:18 invites us to reflect deeply on the nature of true friendship and the courage required to uphold loyalty and justice in the face of adversity. Jonathan's willingness to risk his own life, his inheritance, and his relationship with his father for David serves as a powerful and challenging example of self-sacrificial love and unwavering faithfulness. In our own lives, this prompts us to consider the quality of our relationships: are we friends who stand by others when it is costly, or do we retreat when danger looms or personal sacrifice is required? The verse also speaks to the importance of discernment and strategic wisdom when navigating difficult or dangerous situations. David and Jonathan didn't passively wait for fate; they actively planned, sought to understand the truth, and took calculated risks. This encourages us to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16), seeking counsel, exercising prudence, and trusting God's guidance in our responses to injustice or opposition. Ultimately, it reminds us that even when our "seat" in life feels empty due to circumstances beyond our control—whether through loss, displacement, or persecution—God remains sovereign, and He often uses unexpected means and loyal allies to protect, guide, and sustain us through difficult seasons.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was the significance of the New Moon festival mentioned in 1 Samuel 20:18?
Answer: The New Moon festival (Hebrew: Rosh Chodesh) was a significant religious and social observance in ancient Israel, marking the beginning of each new lunar month. It was a time of special sacrifices, trumpet blasts, and communal feasting, as detailed in Numbers 28:11-15. All prominent members of the royal court, including the king, his family, and key officials like David, were expected to be present at the king's table for the ceremonial meal. Its importance made David's absence exceptionally noticeable, serving as the perfect trigger for Jonathan's plan to test Saul's intentions.
Why was David's absence at the king's table so critical for Jonathan's plan?
Answer: David's absence was critical because his presence at the royal table during the New Moon feast was expected and customary due to his status as the king's son-in-law and a celebrated military leader. An "empty seat" for such a prominent figure would be immediately conspicuous and would inevitably draw King Saul's attention. Jonathan shrewdly used this cultural expectation to create a situation that would force Saul to reveal his true feelings towards David, confirming whether his murderous intent persisted or if there was any hope for reconciliation. It was a calculated risk designed to elicit an undeniable and public reaction from the king, providing clear evidence of his disposition.
How does this verse highlight Jonathan's character?
Answer: This verse powerfully highlights Jonathan's extraordinary character, particularly his unwavering loyalty, courage, and self-sacrificial love for David. Despite being King Saul's son and the presumed heir to the throne, Jonathan prioritizes his covenant friendship with David over his own personal advancement or allegiance to his father's destructive will. His strategic planning and willingness to defy his father, even at great personal risk (as seen later in 1 Samuel 20:30-34), demonstrate a profound moral integrity and a selfless devotion that makes him one of the most admirable figures in the Old Testament. He embodies the biblical ideal of a faithful friend who "loves at all times" (Proverbs 17:17).
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of David's persecution and Jonathan's loyal protection in 1 Samuel 20:18 finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. David, the divinely chosen king, is unjustly rejected and pursued by the reigning authority, King Saul, prefiguring Christ, the true King, who was similarly rejected by the religious and political powers of His day (John 1:11). Jonathan's self-sacrificial love and strategic intervention to save David's life serve as a beautiful type of Christ's ultimate act of friendship and intercession for His people. Just as Jonathan ensured David's safety, Jesus, our ultimate friend, laid down His life for us (John 15:13) and continually intercedes for us before the Father (Romans 8:34). The "empty seat" at Saul's table for David can also remind us of Christ's temporary absence from the earthly realm after His ascension, as He sits at the right hand of God, preparing a place for us (Acts 1:9; John 14:2-3), and His promised return to fill the throne of His eternal kingdom. This verse, therefore, points to the sovereign plan of God to protect His anointed one and establish His kingdom through a rejected but divinely appointed King, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who will return to fill His rightful throne forever.