TRV
Translation
King James Version
And, behold, I will send a lad, saying, Go, find out the arrows. If I expressly say unto the lad, Behold, the arrows are on this side of thee, take them; then come thou: for there is peace to thee, and no hurt; as the LORD liveth.
KJV (with Strong's)
And, behold, I will send H7971 a lad H5288, saying, Go H3212, find out H4672 the arrows H2671. If I expressly H559 say H559 unto the lad H5288, Behold, the arrows H2671 are on this side of thee, take H3947 them; then come H935 thou: for there is peace H7965 to thee, and no hurt H1697; as the LORD H3068 liveth H2416.
Complete Jewish Bible
Then I will send my boy to recover them. If I tell the boy, 'They're here on this side of you, take them,' then come - it means that everything is peaceful for you; as ADONAI lives, there's nothing wrong.
Berean Standard Bible
Then I will send a boy and say, ‘Go, find the arrows!’ Now, if I expressly say to him, ‘Look, the arrows are on this side of you; bring them,’ then come, because as surely as the LORD lives, it is safe for you and there is no danger.
American Standard Version
And, behold, I will send the lad, saying, Go, find the arrows. If I say unto the lad, Behold, the arrows are on this side of thee; take them, and come; for there is peace to thee and no hurt, as Jehovah liveth.
World English Bible Messianic
Behold, I will send the boy, saying, ‘Go, find the arrows!’ If I tell the boy, ‘Behold, the arrows are on this side of you. Take them;’ then come; for there is peace to you and no hurt, as the LORD lives.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And after I wil sende a boy, saying, Goe, seeke the arrowes. If I say vnto the boy, See, the arrowes are on this side thee, bring them, and come thou: for it is well with thee and no hurt, as the Lord liueth.
Young's Literal Translation
and lo, I send the youth: Go, find the arrows. If I at all say to the youth, Lo, the arrows are on this side of thee--take them, --then come thou, for peace is for thee, and there is nothing; Jehovah liveth.
Study This Verse
Commentary on 1 Samuel 20 verses 9–23
9 ¶ And Jonathan said, Far be it from thee: for if I knew certainly that evil were determined by my father to come upon thee, then would not I tell it thee?
10 Then said David to Jonathan, Who shall tell me? or what if thy father answer thee roughly?
11 And Jonathan said unto David, Come, and let us go out into the field. And they went out both of them into the field.
12 And Jonathan said unto David, O LORD God of Israel, when I have sounded my father about to morrow any time, or the third day, and, behold, if there be good toward David, and I then send not unto thee, and shew it thee;
13 The LORD do so and much more to Jonathan: but if it please my father to do thee evil, then I will shew it thee, and send thee away, that thou mayest go in peace: and the LORD be with thee, as he hath been with my father.
14 And thou shalt not only while yet I live shew me the kindness of the LORD, that I die not:
15 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.
16 So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, Let the LORD even require it at the hand of David's enemies.
17 And Jonathan caused David to swear again, because he loved him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul.
18 Then Jonathan said to David, To morrow is the new moon: and thou shalt be missed, because thy seat will be empty.
19 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.
20 And I will shoot three arrows on the side thereof, as though I shot at a mark.
21 And, behold, I will send a lad, saying, Go, find out the arrows. If I expressly say unto the lad, Behold, the arrows are on this side of thee, take them; then come thou: for there is peace to thee, and no hurt; as the LORD liveth.
22 But if I say thus unto the young man, Behold, the arrows are beyond thee; go thy way: for the LORD hath sent thee away.
23 And as touching the matter which thou and I have spoken of, behold, the LORD be between thee and me for ever.
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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SUMMARY
1 Samuel 20:21 meticulously details the "all clear" signal within the clandestine communication system orchestrated by Jonathan to discern King Saul's true intentions toward David. This pivotal verse outlines that if Jonathan instructs his young servant to retrieve the arrows from "this side" of him, it unequivocally signifies David's safety, promising him peace and freedom from harm. This assurance is solemnly sealed by an oath invoking the living God, profoundly underscoring Jonathan's unwavering loyalty and strategic brilliance in protecting his divinely appointed friend from his own father's escalating, murderous jealousy.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices that amplify its meaning and dramatic impact. Symbolism is paramount, with the arrows serving as a sophisticated, covert means of communication; their precise placement symbolically conveys either safety or imminent danger. The very act of shooting arrows, typically associated with warfare, hunting, or aggression, is here artfully repurposed for a message of peace or warning, creating a subtle layer of irony given King Saul's violent and murderous intentions towards David. The phrase "as the LORD liveth" is a powerful example of oath-taking, a deeply significant form of covenant language in ancient Israel. This device elevates the personal promise between David and Jonathan to a divinely witnessed and binding agreement, imbuing it with sacred weight and inviolability. Furthermore, Jonathan's self-sacrificial loyalty and the divine oath function as foreshadowing, anticipating God's continued, unwavering protection over David and His ultimate, sovereign plan for David's kingship, despite the immediate and perilous circumstances. The entire scene is imbued with suspense, as David's fate hangs precariously on the interpretation of this subtle, pre-arranged signal.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 20:21 stands as a profound testament to the power of covenant friendship, divine providence, and the intricate ways God orchestrates circumstances to protect His chosen ones. Jonathan's unwavering loyalty, even at immense personal cost and risk to his own royal succession, mirrors the self-sacrificial love that is a hallmark of true biblical friendship and points to the deeper, steadfast covenantal faithfulness of God Himself. The elaborate signal, while a human contrivance of strategic genius, operates entirely within the larger framework of God's sovereign plan for David's life, demonstrating how God can use seemingly ordinary means and deeply personal human relationships to accomplish His extraordinary, redemptive purposes. The promise of "peace and no hurt" echoes God's profound desire for the holistic well-being (shâlôwm) of His people, even amidst tribulation and persecution, and powerfully underscores the security and divine protection found in trusting His guidance and His ultimate plan.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jonathan's actions in 1 Samuel 20:21 provide a powerful and enduring blueprint for what it truly means to be a loyal, self-sacrificing, and discerning friend. In a world often characterized by self-interest, superficial connections, and fleeting relationships, Jonathan stands as a beacon of unwavering commitment, willing to jeopardize his own future and even his life for the sake of his divinely appointed friend. This passage profoundly challenges us to examine the depth and authenticity of our own friendships: are we willing to go to extraordinary lengths to protect, support, and advocate for those we claim to love, even when it demands significant personal sacrifice, courage in the face of adversity, or wisdom in navigating complex relational dynamics? Furthermore, this narrative reminds us of the critical importance of clear, intentional, and strategic communication, especially in high-stakes situations, and the wisdom of devising thoughtful strategies to navigate intricate challenges. Ultimately, it invites us to cultivate a deeper trust in God's overarching providence, recognizing that even in the midst of danger, uncertainty, and human treachery, He orchestrates circumstances for the ultimate good of those He has chosen and called, providing "peace and no hurt" in ways we may not always foresee or fully comprehend.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was the significance of the "all clear" signal in 1 Samuel 20:21?
Answer: The "all clear" signal in 1 Samuel 20:21 was a pre-arranged, covert code between Jonathan and David, meticulously designed to inform David whether King Saul intended to harm him or not, without alerting Saul's court. In this specific verse, Jonathan specifies that if he tells his servant, "Behold, the arrows are on this side of thee, take them," it means David is safe and can return without fear. This signal was absolutely crucial for David's survival, as it allowed him to accurately gauge the immediate threat from Saul's murderous intent without direct confrontation. It powerfully demonstrated Jonathan's ingenuity, his deep commitment to protecting his friend, and his willingness to risk his own life and royal succession for David's safety and future.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jonathan's profound, self-sacrificial love and his pivotal role as a mediator of safety and peace for David in 1 Samuel 20:21 powerfully foreshadow the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Just as Jonathan, the king's son and rightful heir, willingly relinquished his own claim to the throne and risked his life to secure David's safety and future kingship, so too did Jesus, the eternal Son of God and rightful heir to all things, lay down His life to secure our eternal peace and spiritual inheritance as co-heirs with Him (Romans 8:17). Jonathan's promise of "peace to thee, and no hurt" finds its ultimate and everlasting fulfillment in Christ, who is our true Prince of Peace and who has delivered us from the ultimate "hurt" of sin, death, and separation from God through His perfect, atoning sacrifice on the cross (Colossians 1:19-20). He is the ultimate "friend who sticks closer than a brother" (Proverbs 18:24), who entered into a new and eternal covenant with us through His own blood (Luke 22:20), guaranteeing our everlasting safety, security, and holistic well-being. Jonathan's solemn oath "as the LORD liveth" points to the absolute trustworthiness of God's promises, which are all "Yes" and "Amen" in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 1:20). Through Christ, we receive not just temporary safety from earthly foes, but everlasting shâlôwm—perfect peace and reconciliation—with God our Father (Romans 5:1).