2 Samuel 1:22

KJV

From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan turned not back, and the sword of Saul returned not empty.

KJV (with Strong's)

From the blood {H1818} of the slain {H2491}, from the fat {H2459} of the mighty {H1368}, the bow {H7198} of Jonathan {H3083} turned {H7734} not back {H268}, and the sword {H2719} of Saul {H7586} returned {H7725} not empty {H7387}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"From the blood of the dead, from the flesh of heroes, the bow of Y'honatan did not retreat or the sword of Sha'ul return unsatisfied.

Berean Standard Bible

From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan did not retreat, and the sword of Saul did not return empty.

American Standard Version

From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, The bow of Jonathan turned not back, And the sword of Saul returned not empty.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Samuel 1:22 is a powerful line from David's profound lament, the "Song of the Bow," commemorating the tragic deaths of King Saul and his beloved son, Jonathan, at the Battle of Mount Gilboa. This verse specifically extols their unparalleled military prowess and unwavering effectiveness as warriors, vividly portraying their relentless and decisive impact on the battlefield against Israel's enemies.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within David's deeply emotional elegy for Saul and Jonathan, found in [2 Samuel 1:17-27](/2_samuel/1-17 "2 Samuel 1:17-27 - David's Lament for Saul and Jonathan"). This "Song of the Bow" is recited after David receives the devastating news of Israel's defeat by the Philistines and the deaths of his king and closest friend on [Mount Gilboa](/1_samuel/31 "1 Samuel 31 - The Death of Saul and Jonathan"). Despite the complex and often hostile relationship David had with Saul, particularly Saul's relentless pursuit of David's life, David's lament is a genuine and profound expression of grief. It serves not only as a personal outpouring of sorrow but also as a public, national act of mourning, intended to be taught to the people of Judah to honor the fallen leaders and preserve their legacy of valor.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of the early Israelite monarchy was characterized by constant warfare, particularly against the Philistines, who were a formidable and technologically superior enemy. Mount Gilboa was a strategically important location in the Jezreel Valley, and the battle fought there represented a catastrophic defeat for Israel, leading to the collapse of Saul's kingdom. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, military prowess was highly esteemed, and a leader's ability to defend his people was paramount. Laments like David's were a customary and significant way to honor fallen heroes, acknowledge their contributions, and process national grief. The vivid imagery of "blood of the slain" and "fat of the mighty" would have resonated deeply with an audience familiar with the brutal realities of ancient warfare and the symbolic significance of a complete victory.
* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within [2 Samuel 1](/2_samuel/1 "2 Samuel 1 - David's Lament") and the broader narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Warrior Prowess and Effectiveness**, highlighting the formidable skill and success of Saul and Jonathan in combat. The graphic depiction of "blood of the slain" and "fat of the mighty" vividly portrays their decisive victories over powerful enemies, emphasizing the lethality and efficiency of their weapons. Secondly, the phrases "turned not back" (for Jonathan's bow) and "returned not empty" (for Saul's sword) convey a theme of **Unwavering Commitment in Battle**, emphasizing their relentless and successful engagement. Their weapons were consistently used to achieve decisive outcomes, never failing to strike or inflict damage against their foes. Finally, this lament exemplifies the theme of **Honor in Lament**, showcasing David's remarkable capacity to honor his fallen king and his cherished friend, setting aside personal grievances for the sake of national unity and respect for their legacy. David's deep, covenantal bond with Jonathan is a recurring and beautiful theme, notably established in [1 Samuel 18:1](/1_samuel/18-1 "1 Samuel 18:1 - Jonathan's Love for David") and reaffirmed in [1 Samuel 20:17](/1_samuel/20-17 "1 Samuel 20:17 - Jonathan's Covenant with David").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Slain (Hebrew, _ḥālāl'_):** This term specifically refers to those who are "pierced," "wounded," or "slain" in battle. It emphasizes the violent and often fatal nature of the injuries inflicted, indicating that Saul and Jonathan were responsible for numerous enemy casualties, not just minor wounds. The word evokes the visceral reality of combat.
* **Fat (Hebrew, _ḥēleḇ'_):** In biblical usage, "fat" often signifies the best, richest, or most vital part of something. When applied to sacrifices, it was the choicest portion offered to God. Here, "fat of the mighty" is a powerful poetic metaphor, referring to the strength, vitality, or even the choicest warriors of the defeated enemy. It implies not just the shedding of blood but the complete vanquishing and utter defeat of the most formidable adversaries.
* **Mighty (Hebrew, _gibborim'_):** This word denotes powerful, strong, or valiant warriors. Its use here highlights that Saul and Jonathan were not merely fighting ordinary soldiers but were consistently overcoming the most formidable and skilled fighters among their enemies. This accentuates their extraordinary skill and courage.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"From the blood of the slain":** This opening phrase immediately establishes the context of intense battle and the high volume of casualties inflicted by Saul and Jonathan. It paints a vivid picture of a battlefield drenched in the blood of their enemies, testifying to their relentless and effective offensive.
* **"from the fat of the mighty":** This parallel phrase intensifies the imagery, suggesting that their victories were not just numerous but also complete and decisive. They not only shed the blood of ordinary soldiers but utterly defeated the most powerful and vital warriors of the opposing forces, leaving no strength or vitality left in the enemy.
* **"the bow of Jonathan turned not back":** This clause specifically praises Jonathan's prowess as an archer, a skill for which he was renowned. "Turned not back" implies that his bow was always effective, never failing to hit its mark, never returning without having inflicted damage. It speaks to his accuracy, speed, and relentless engagement in battle.
* **"and the sword of Saul returned not empty":** This parallel clause extols Saul's skill with the sword. "Returned not empty" signifies that his sword always found its target, always delivered a decisive blow, and never failed to inflict a wound or kill an enemy. It emphasizes his power, precision, and the finality of his strikes.

#### Literary Devices
The verse is rich with literary artistry, enhancing its emotional and descriptive power. **Parallelism** is evident in the balanced structure, contrasting Jonathan's bow with Saul's sword and their respective outcomes ("turned not back" and "returned not empty"). This creates a rhythmic and memorable quality. **Merism** is employed in "blood of the slain" and "fat of the mighty," which together represent the totality of their victories, from the initial wounding to the complete and utter defeat of the enemy's most formidable elements. The language also contains elements of **Hyperbole**, as the poetic exaggeration serves to emphasize the extraordinary, almost superhuman, effectiveness of the two warriors. Furthermore, **Metonymy** is present, where "bow" and "sword" stand in for Jonathan and Saul themselves, attributing the weapons' effectiveness directly to the skill of their wielders. Finally, the verse is replete with vivid **Imagery**, painting a visceral picture of the battlefield and the devastating impact of the two heroes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, part of David's lament, offers profound theological insights beyond its immediate military context. It highlights the biblical principle of honoring those who have served, even when their lives were complex or flawed. David, despite his personal grievances with Saul, recognizes Saul's God-given role as king and his significant contributions to Israel's defense. This act of lament speaks to a mature faith that can separate a person's office and public service from their personal failings, acknowledging the good where it exists. The unwavering effectiveness of Jonathan's bow and Saul's sword can also be seen as a metaphor for divine enablement; even when human instruments are imperfect, God can use them mightily for His purposes in defending His people. The lament itself is a theological act, demonstrating the importance of processing grief and acknowledging loss within a community, even for those who might be considered adversaries.

* [Psalm 18:34](/psalms/18-34 "Psalm 18:34 - God Trains My Hands for War")
* [Proverbs 27:2](/proverbs/27-2 "Proverbs 27:2 - Let Another Praise You")
* [Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - Whatever Is Excellent or Praiseworthy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's lament for Saul and Jonathan, particularly this verse, provides a powerful model for how we, as believers, can navigate complex relationships and honor the contributions of others, even amidst personal difficulties or perceived injustices. It challenges us to look beyond flaws and past hurts to acknowledge and celebrate the strengths, achievements, and God-given abilities of those around us. Just as Saul and Jonathan's weapons were effective and unwavering, we are called to a similar steadfastness and effectiveness in our own callings, whether in ministry, family, or profession. Our "bow" (our gifts, talents, and efforts) should "not turn back," and our "sword" (our commitment to truth and righteousness) should "not return empty." This means pursuing our God-given purposes with diligence, integrity, and a commitment to seeing fruit from our labor. Furthermore, the act of lament reminds us of the importance of empathy, genuine mourning for loss, and the capacity to extend grace and respect, even to those with whom we might have had strained relationships. It encourages us to build bridges of honor and reconciliation, fostering unity and acknowledging the good in every person's legacy.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can we, like David, choose to honor the strengths and contributions of others, even when we have experienced conflict or disagreement with them?**
* **What does it mean for our "bow" or "sword" (our gifts, talents, efforts) to "not turn back" or "not return empty" in our spiritual or vocational calling?**
* **In what ways can we cultivate a spirit of lament and empathy for those who have fallen, or for situations of loss, even if their lives were complex or flawed?**

### FAQ
**Why does David mourn Saul so deeply, given their history of conflict?**

Answer: David's profound mourning for Saul, despite the years of persecution, reveals several aspects of his character and the spiritual principles at play. Firstly, David was a man after God's own heart, capable of great magnanimity and forgiveness. He recognized Saul as God's anointed king, and therefore, an attack on Saul was, in a sense, an attack on God's chosen leader. Secondly, David's lament served as a powerful act of national unity, especially important during a time of crisis and defeat. By honoring Saul, David helped to heal divisions and provide a unifying figure for the nation. Thirdly, David genuinely loved Jonathan, and his grief for Jonathan naturally extended to Jonathan's father, Saul, with whom Jonathan was inextricably linked in death. David's lament elevates the national good and spiritual respect above personal grievances, demonstrating a truly righteous heart.

**What is the significance of "the fat of the mighty"?**

Answer: "The fat of the mighty" is a vivid poetic expression that signifies the choicest, strongest, or most vital part of the enemy. In ancient cultures, fat was often considered the best part of an animal, reserved for sacrifice or for the most honored guests. Here, metaphorically, it refers to the most formidable and powerful warriors among the Philistines. The phrase emphasizes that Saul and Jonathan were not merely defeating common soldiers but were utterly vanquishing the elite, the strongest, and most vital elements of their adversaries. It highlights the completeness and decisiveness of their victories, leaving no strength or vitality in the enemy's ranks.

**Was Jonathan truly as skilled as Saul in battle, or is this just poetic hyperbole?**

Answer: While the language is certainly poetic and hyperbolic to emphasize their prowess, Jonathan was indeed a highly skilled and courageous warrior, often depicted as a formidable leader in his own right. [1 Samuel 14](/1_samuel/14 "1 Samuel 14 - Jonathan's Brave Feat") recounts his daring and successful solo attack on a Philistine garrison, demonstrating his exceptional bravery and military acumen. He was an expert archer, a crucial skill in ancient warfare. So, while the lament uses elevated language, it is grounded in the historical reality of Jonathan's significant military capabilities, placing him alongside his father as a truly effective defender of Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Samuel 1:22 celebrates the earthly prowess of Saul and Jonathan, it ultimately points to the perfect and ultimate Warrior-King, Jesus Christ. Their "bow" that "turned not back" and "sword" that "returned not empty" foreshadow the unwavering effectiveness of Christ's spiritual warfare. Unlike Saul and Jonathan, who ultimately fell in battle and whose victories were temporal, Jesus' victory is eternal and complete. He is the true [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), whose ultimate "battle" was fought not with physical weapons but through His sacrificial death on the cross, conquering sin, death, and the devil himself ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). His "word" is the "sword of the Spirit" ([Ephesians 6:17](/ephesians/6-17 "Ephesians 6:17 - The Sword of the Spirit")), which "is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit" ([Hebrews 4:12](/hebrews/4-12 "Hebrews 4:12 - The Word of God Is Living and Active")), never returning empty but always accomplishing His divine purpose ([Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Will Not Return Empty")). The lament over Saul and Jonathan's death, though poignant, pales in comparison to the ultimate sorrow and subsequent triumph of Christ's crucifixion and resurrection, which secured eternal life for all who believe. He is the King whose reign will never end, whose victory is absolute, and whose "bow" and "sword" of justice and salvation will forever remain effective.

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

1 Samuel 18:4

And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that [was] upon him, and gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle.

Isaiah 34:6

The sword of the LORD is filled with blood, it is made fat with fatness, [and] with the blood of lambs and goats, with the fat of the kidneys of rams: for the LORD hath a sacrifice in Bozrah, and a great slaughter in the land of Idumea.

Isaiah 34:7

And the unicorns shall come down with them, and the bullocks with the bulls; and their land shall be soaked with blood, and their dust made fat with fatness.

Deuteronomy 32:42

I will make mine arrows drunk with blood, and my sword shall devour flesh; [and that] with the blood of the slain and of the captives, from the beginning of revenges upon the enemy.

1 Samuel 14:6

And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for [there is] no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few.

1 Samuel 14:14

And that first slaughter, which Jonathan and his armourbearer made, was about twenty men, within as it were an half acre of land, [which] a yoke [of oxen might plow].