1 Samuel 23:18

And they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.

And they two {H8147} made {H3772} a covenant {H1285} before {H6440} the LORD {H3068}: and David {H1732} abode {H3427} in the wood {H2793}, and Jonathan {H3083} went {H1980} to his house {H1004}.

Then the two of them made a covenant in the presence of ADONAI, after which David stayed at Horesh and Y'honatan returned home.

So the two of them made a covenant before the LORD. And David remained in Horesh, while Jonathan went home.

And they two made a covenant before Jehovah: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Samuel 23:18 (KJV)

1 Samuel 23:18 is a poignant verse that captures a moment of profound loyalty and spiritual unity between David and Jonathan amidst intense adversity. It reads, "And they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house." This verse highlights the enduring strength of their bond, even as their paths diverged.

Context

This verse is set during a tumultuous period in David's life when he was a fugitive, relentlessly pursued by King Saul, who saw him as a threat to his throne. David had just escaped a treacherous situation in Keilah and was hiding in the wilderness of Ziph. It is in this desolate and dangerous environment that Jonathan, Saul's son and heir, sought out David. Their meeting, detailed in 1 Samuel 23:16-17, served to strengthen David's faith and resolve, with Jonathan explicitly affirming God's plan for David to be king.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Unwavering Loyalty and Friendship: The verse powerfully illustrates the deep, sacrificial friendship between David and Jonathan. Despite being the heir to the throne, Jonathan consistently put David's well-being and God's will above his own ambitions, recognizing David's divine appointment. This mutual devotion transcended political rivalry and personal danger.
  • Covenant Before the LORD: The act of "making a covenant before the LORD" signifies a solemn and sacred agreement, witnessed and sanctioned by God Himself. This was not their first pact; they had previously established covenants in 1 Samuel 18:3 and 1 Samuel 20:16. This final covenant underscores the enduring nature of their bond and Jonathan's commitment to David's future kingship, even prophesying it in 1 Samuel 23:17.
  • Divine Providence and Faithfulness: The covenant being made "before the LORD" emphasizes God's active role in David's life and His overarching plan. Jonathan's recognition of David's future as king, despite his current fugitive status, is a testament to his faith in God's sovereign hand. This assurance brought immense encouragement to David during a time of great despair.
  • Diverging Paths: The concluding phrases, "David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house," starkly highlight their differing circumstances. David remained a hunted man, living in the wilderness, while Jonathan returned to the relative safety of the royal court. This contrast underscores the personal cost of their loyalty and the dangerous reality of David's situation.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "covenant" is berit (Χ‘Φ°ΦΌΧ¨Φ΄Χ™Χͺ), a highly significant term in the Old Testament. It denotes a binding agreement, often sealed by oaths, sacrifices, or solemn promises, and frequently involves God as a party or witness. In this context, it signifies a sacred, unbreakable bond of mutual commitment and loyalty between David and Jonathan, affirmed in God's presence.

Practical Application

The story of David and Jonathan remains a powerful example of true friendship and loyalty. For us today, 1 Samuel 23:18 teaches the value of:

  • Faithful Friendship: Seeking out and cherishing friends who encourage us in our faith and support us through trials, even when it is costly.
  • Trusting God's Plan: Like Jonathan, we are called to trust in God's sovereign plan, even when circumstances seem bleak or contrary to our expectations.
  • Encouragement in Adversity: The power of a timely word of encouragement can strengthen someone's hand in God during their darkest hours.

This verse reminds us that even in the midst of persecution and uncertainty, God provides faithful companions and reaffirms His promises, setting the stage for David's eventual ascent to the throne as seen in 2 Samuel 5:3.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 18:3 (5 votes)

    Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul.

  • 2 Samuel 21:7 (5 votes)

    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 20:42 (5 votes)

    And Jonathan said to David, Go in peace, forasmuch as we have sworn both of us in the name of the LORD, saying, The LORD be between me and thee, and between my seed and thy seed for ever. And he arose and departed: and Jonathan went into the city.

  • 2 Samuel 9:1 (4 votes)

    ΒΆ 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?

  • 1 Samuel 20:12 (3 votes)

    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;

  • 1 Samuel 20:17 (3 votes)

    And Jonathan caused David to swear again, because he loved him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul.