1 Samuel 20:19

Translation
King James Version
And when thou hast stayed three days, then thou shalt go down quickly, and come to the place where thou didst hide thyself when the business was in hand, and shalt remain by the stone Ezel.
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KJV (with Strong's)
And when thou hast stayed three days H8027, then thou shalt go down H3381 quickly H3966, and come H935 to the place H4725 where thou didst hide H5641 thyself when H3117 the business H4639 was in hand, and shalt remain H3427 by H681 the stone H68 Ezel H237.
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Complete Jewish Bible
The third day, hide yourself well in the same place as you did before; stay by the Departure Stone.
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Berean Standard Bible
When you have stayed three days, hurry down to the place you hid on the day this trouble began, and remain beside the stone Ezel.
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American Standard Version
And when thou hast stayed three days, thou shalt go down quickly, and come to the place where thou didst hide thyself when the business was in hand, and shalt remain by the stone Ezel.
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World English Bible Messianic
When you have stayed three days, you shall go down quickly, and come to the place where you hid yourself when this started, and shall remain by the stone Ezel.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore thou shalt hide thy selfe three dayes, then thou shalt goe downe quickely and come to the place where thou diddest hide thy selfe, when this matter was in hand, and shalt remayne by the stone Ezel.
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Young's Literal Translation
and on the third day thou dost certainly come down, and hast come in unto the place where thou wast hidden in the day of the work, and hast remained near the stone Ezel.
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See also
1 Samuel 19:21 Samuel 20:5
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David on the Run (Part 1)
David on the Run (Part 1) View full PDF

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In the KJVVerse 7,750 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Samuel 20:19 is a critical verse in the unfolding drama between David and Jonathan, meticulously outlining the precise instructions for David's secret rendezvous. It specifies the exact timing, the urgent nature of his movement, and the familiar location—the stone Ezel—where he is to await Jonathan's pre-arranged signal. This verse profoundly underscores the perilous threat David faced from King Saul's escalating jealousy and paranoia, while simultaneously highlighting the extraordinary depth of Jonathan's unwavering loyalty, strategic foresight, and self-sacrificial love in protecting his anointed friend.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is intricately woven into the dramatic climax of 1 Samuel 20, a chapter that chronicles Jonathan's final, desperate, and ultimately successful attempt to protect David from his increasingly erratic and murderous father, King Saul. Following David's heartfelt plea for Jonathan to discern Saul's true disposition (1 Samuel 20:1-3), Jonathan reaffirms his covenant loyalty and devises an elaborate, secret plan. Verse 19 provides David with his specific role in this scheme, detailing the exact time and place for him to position himself to receive a pre-arranged signal involving arrows. This meticulous instruction sets the stage for the intense confrontation at the New Moon feast and the subsequent, sorrowful parting of David and Jonathan, marking a critical turning point in David's life as he transitions from courtier to a life as a fugitive.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The events of 1 Samuel 20, including verse 19, unfold in the nascent period of Israel's monarchy, a time characterized by the absolute authority of kings whose personal animosities could lead to swift and brutal consequences. The New Moon feast, mentioned earlier in the chapter (1 Samuel 20:5), was a significant religious and social observance that required the presence of prominent figures, making David's absence conspicuous and potentially dangerous. The concept of a binding covenant, like the one between David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 18:3), was paramount in ancient Near Eastern culture, often superseding even familial obligations. The necessity for David to hide in the open country and utilize a specific landmark like the "stone Ezel" reflects the common practice of fugitives seeking refuge in the wilderness, relying on familiar terrain and pre-arranged signals to evade capture in a landscape where natural features often served as crucial markers.
  • Key Themes: 1 Samuel 20:19 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes woven throughout the book of 1 Samuel. It prominently showcases the theme of Loyalty and Friendship, as Jonathan, the crown prince, risks his own life and succession to protect David, the anointed future king. This verse also highlights the pervasive Danger and Persecution faced by David due to King Saul's escalating Jealousy and Madness, which forces David into a life of constant evasion and hiding, as seen in earlier attempts on his life (1 Samuel 19:9-10). Furthermore, it implicitly demonstrates the theme of Divine Providence, as God, though unseen, sovereignly works through human agents and their strategic actions—even those of Saul's own son—to protect and advance His chosen servant, David, towards his destiny as king. The meticulous planning also underscores the theme of Prudence and Strategic Action in the face of overwhelming adversity.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Ezel (Hebrew, ʼezel', H237): The Hebrew word אֶזֶל (ʼezel), which forms part of the phrase אֶבֶן הָאֶזֶל (ʼEben hāʼEzel), meaning "stone of Ezel," carries the core meaning of "departure" or "going away." This etymological significance transforms the "stone Ezel" from a mere geographical marker into a profound symbol. It powerfully foreshadows the sorrowful and decisive separation that will occur at this very spot, marking David's final departure from Saul's court and the definitive beginning of his life as a fugitive.
  • Quickly (Hebrew, mᵉʼôd', H3966): The Hebrew term מְאֹד (mᵉʼôd), translated as "quickly," "vehemently," or "speedily," emphasizes the extreme urgency and critical nature of David's movement. It conveys that there is no room for delay or hesitation in this perilous situation. The swiftness of his action is directly tied to his safety, highlighting the immediate and severe threat posed by Saul and the high stakes involved in the success of Jonathan's plan.
  • Business (Hebrew, maʻăseh', H4639): The Hebrew term מַעֲשֶׂה (maʻăseh), rendered as "business" in the KJV, has a broader meaning of "an action," "transaction," or "affair." In the context of "when the business was in hand," it refers to previous dangerous or urgent situations where David had to hide from Saul. This subtle phrase serves as a grim reminder of Saul's recurring murderous attempts against David, indicating a pattern of threat and evasion that necessitated such a pre-arranged, familiar hiding place.

Verse Breakdown

  • "And [when] thou hast stayed three days": This clause establishes a precise temporal framework for David's actions, indicating a period of waiting and observation. The "three days" likely corresponds to the duration of the New Moon feast, during which Jonathan would carefully monitor King Saul's behavior and determine his true intentions regarding David. This waiting period builds suspense and emphasizes the careful timing required for the plan's execution, highlighting the meticulous nature of Jonathan's strategy.
  • "[then] thou shalt go down quickly": This command conveys the immediate and urgent nature of David's movement once the designated waiting period has passed. "Go down" suggests a geographical descent, possibly from a higher, more secluded hiding place to a lower, more accessible rendezvous point. The adverb "quickly" underscores the peril David faced, stressing that swift and decisive action was paramount for his safety and the success of the escape plan. It reflects the life-or-death stakes involved.
  • "and come to the place where thou didst hide thyself when the business was [in hand]": This instruction directs David to a specific, familiar location that had previously served as a safe haven. The phrase "when the business was in hand" is a euphemism for the dangerous circumstances David had faced before, referring to Saul's prior attempts on his life. This indicates a pre-existing pattern of evasion and highlights the ongoing, severe threat, making a proven hiding place essential for David's survival and reinforcing the deep trust between David and Jonathan.
  • "and shalt remain by the stone Ezel.": This final clause pinpoints the exact rendezvous point for David. The "stone Ezel" is not merely an arbitrary landmark but a named location, signifying its importance and recognition by both David and Jonathan. Its symbolic name, meaning "departure" or "separation," profoundly foreshadows the outcome of this secret meeting: David's permanent separation from Saul's court and the beginning of his life as a fugitive, marking a pivotal and sorrowful transition that would forever alter his destiny.

Literary Devices

The passage in 1 Samuel 20:19, within its broader narrative, skillfully employs several literary devices to heighten its impact and convey deeper meaning. Foreshadowing is powerfully present in the very name of the "stone Ezel," whose etymological meaning of "departure" or "separation" subtly yet profoundly hints at the sorrowful and permanent parting that will occur at this location between David and Jonathan. This is reinforced by Symbolism, as the stone itself becomes a tangible marker of this irreversible transition in David's life from courtier to fugitive, a monument to a friendship that transcends political loyalties. The meticulous detail and precise instructions regarding timing, urgency, and location contribute significantly to building Suspense, immersing the reader in the high-stakes drama and uncertainty surrounding David's fate. Furthermore, there is a poignant Irony in Jonathan, the rightful heir to Saul's throne, actively orchestrating the escape of the man destined to replace his father, highlighting the profound depth of his loyalty, the tragic trajectory of Saul's reign, and the divine hand at work in the midst of human conflict.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

1 Samuel 20:19, though seemingly a simple set of instructions, is deeply imbued with theological significance. It illustrates how divine providence often operates through human agency and relationships. While God's direct voice is absent, His unseen hand is clearly at work, preserving David, His anointed, through the extraordinary faithfulness and strategic planning of Jonathan. This passage underscores the theological truth that God uses faithful friends and their prudent actions as instruments of His will, even in the face of intense persecution and political intrigue. It highlights the profound value of covenant relationships and the self-sacrificial love that mirrors God's own character, as Jonathan willingly risks everything to protect David's life and ensure the continuation of God's plan for Israel's kingship, demonstrating a love that goes beyond mere affection to active, costly commitment.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The detailed instructions given in 1 Samuel 20:19 offer more than just a historical account; they provide profound lessons for navigating our own lives. In moments of crisis, like David's, we are called to exercise both prudence and faith. Jonathan's meticulous planning reminds us that while we place our ultimate trust in God's sovereignty, we are also responsible for thoughtful, strategic action. We are not to be reckless but to wisely use the discernment and resources God provides, understanding that faith does not negate the need for wisdom. Moreover, this verse powerfully speaks to the invaluable nature of true friendship and unwavering loyalty. Just as Jonathan risked his own future for David's safety, we are challenged to be friends who "love at all times," willing to stand by and even sacrifice for those we care about, especially in their deepest need. In a world often marked by self-interest and fleeting connections, the covenant bond between David and Jonathan serves as a timeless example of selfless devotion, urging us to cultivate relationships built on genuine care, unwavering commitment, and a willingness to act for the good of others, reflecting the very heart of God's love for us.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does Jonathan's detailed planning in this verse challenge my own approach to difficult or dangerous situations, balancing trust in God with responsible action?
  • In what specific ways can I demonstrate the kind of selfless loyalty Jonathan showed to David in my own friendships and relationships today?
  • How does the implicit presence of God's providence in David's escape encourage my trust in God's protection during my own times of peril or uncertainty?

FAQ

What is the significance of the "stone Ezel"?

Answer: The "stone Ezel" (Hebrew: אֶבֶן הָאֶזֶל, ʼEben hāʼEzel) is highly significant due to the meaning of its name. "Ezel" translates to "departure" or "separation." Therefore, this specific landmark serves as a poignant and prophetic symbol of the critical turning point in David's life. It is the designated location where David would receive the signal that would confirm his permanent separation from Saul's court and the beginning of his long period as a fugitive, marking a painful yet necessary transition in his journey towards kingship. It signifies a point of no return from his life with Saul, despite the deep bond with Jonathan, and becomes a memorial to their enduring friendship amidst forced separation.

Why was such a detailed and secret plan necessary for David's safety?

Answer: A detailed and secret plan was absolutely necessary because King Saul's jealousy and murderous intent towards David had escalated to an extreme and unpredictable level. Saul had already made several direct attempts on David's life, as seen in 1 Samuel 19:9-10, and David's life was in constant peril within the royal court. Open communication or a direct confrontation with Saul was impossible due to the king's erratic and violent behavior. The clandestine nature of the plan, involving specific timing, a known hiding place, and a pre-arranged signal, was the only way for Jonathan to safely ascertain Saul's true intentions and for David to escape if necessary, without alerting Saul or his loyalists. It underscores the high stakes and the life-threatening danger David faced.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The profound loyalty and self-sacrificial love displayed by Jonathan in 1 Samuel 20:19, as he meticulously orchestrates David's escape from certain death, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate act of friendship and deliverance found in Jesus Christ. Just as Jonathan, the rightful heir to Saul's throne, willingly jeopardized his own position and future to secure David's future as king, so Jesus, the true Son of God and rightful King of all creation, willingly laid down His life for His friends—even for those who were His enemies—to secure their eternal salvation and bring them into His everlasting kingdom (John 15:13). The "stone Ezel," a place of sorrowful and decisive separation for David, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ's own "departure" through His crucifixion and ascension. This was not a separation from His people, but the necessary means to secure our eternal fellowship with God and to prepare a place for us (John 14:2-3). Jesus is our ultimate hiding place and refuge (Psalm 32:7), the one who delivers us from the ultimate "business in hand"—the judgment for our sins—by taking it upon Himself (2 Corinthians 5:21). Through His perfect loyalty, strategic plan of redemption, and ultimate sacrifice, He ensures our safety, secures our eternal reign with Him, and fulfills the divine plan for humanity's true and eternal King.

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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.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 9–23. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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