2 Samuel 1:23

KJV

Saul and Jonathan [were] lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided: they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.

KJV (with Strong's)

Saul {H7586} and Jonathan {H3083} were lovely {H157} and pleasant {H5273} in their lives {H2416}, and in their death {H4194} they were not divided {H6504}: they were swifter {H7043} than eagles {H5404}, they were stronger {H1396} than lions {H738}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Sha'ul and Y'honatan, loved and gracious while alive, were not separated even in death; they were swifter than eagles, stronger than lions.

Berean Standard Bible

Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life, were not divided in death. They were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.

American Standard Version

Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives, And in their death they were not divided: They were swifter than eagles, They were stronger than lions.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
David's poignant lament for King Saul and his beloved son Jonathan, known as "The Song of the Bow," captures a profound and complex grief. This verse, 2 Samuel 1:23, beautifully encapsulates David's deep respect and sorrow, portraying Saul and Jonathan as unified in life and death, and celebrating their legendary valor as warriors. It stands as a testament to David's character, his honoring of God's anointed, and his enduring love for Jonathan, transcending the personal conflicts that marked his relationship with Saul.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is part of David's elegy following the devastating news of Israel's defeat by the Philistines on Mount Gilboa and the deaths of King Saul and his three sons, including Jonathan. The narrative immediately preceding this lament details how an Amalekite survivor brings the news to David, expecting a reward for claiming to have delivered the final blow to Saul ([2 Samuel 1:1-10](/2_samuel/1-10 "The Amalekite's Report to David")). David's response is not one of triumph over his long-time persecutor but profound sorrow, expressed through tearing his clothes, fasting, and then executing the Amalekite for laying hands on the Lord's anointed ([2 Samuel 1:11-16](/2_samuel/1-16 "David's Grief and Judgment")). The lament itself, introduced as "The Song of the Bow" ([2 Samuel 1:18](/2_samuel/1-18 "David Teaches the Song of the Bow")), serves as a public declaration of grief and a tribute, highlighting David's respect for the office of king and his deep, covenantal bond with Jonathan, a friendship that began early in their relationship ([1 Samuel 18:1](/1_samuel/18-1 "Jonathan's Soul Knit to David's")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Battle of Gilboa, where Saul and Jonathan met their end ([1 Samuel 31:1-6](/1_samuel/31-6 "Saul and His Sons Die in Battle")), marked a critical juncture in Israel's history, signifying the end of Saul's reign and paving the way for David's kingship. In the ancient Near East, royal deaths, particularly in battle, were often commemorated with elaborate laments or eulogies, which served not only to mourn the fallen but also to solidify the memory of their virtues and heroic deeds. David's lament aligns with this cultural practice, elevating the status of the fallen king and prince. The description of their swiftness and strength reflects the high value placed on military prowess and physical might in a society where tribal and national survival often depended on the valor of its warriors. This public mourning also helped to unify the nation in a time of crisis and transition.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within 2 Samuel and the broader Deuteronomistic History. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Unbreakable Bond and Loyalty**, particularly evident in the relationship between David and Jonathan. Despite Saul's relentless pursuit of David, the lament focuses on the unity of father and son, and implicitly, the enduring nature of Jonathan's loyalty to David, which transcended familial and political loyalties ([1 Samuel 20:17](/1_samuel/20-17 "Jonathan's Covenant with David")). Secondly, the verse highlights **Heroic Valor and Ideal Kingship**. By describing Saul and Jonathan as "swifter than eagles" and "stronger than lions," David employs hyperbolic language common in eulogies to portray them as archetypal warriors, embodying the ideal of courageous leadership, even in defeat. This heroic portrayal serves to honor their legacy and inspire future generations. Lastly, the lament powerfully conveys the theme of **Tragic Loss and National Grief**. The death of the king and his heir in battle was a national catastrophe, signaling a period of vulnerability and transition. David's lament channels this collective sorrow, acknowledging the immense cost of war and the profound impact of losing such prominent figures, even as it subtly paves the way for a new era under David's leadership.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Lovely (Hebrew, _na'em'_):** This word conveys a sense of delight, pleasantness, beauty, or agreeableness. It is used to describe something that is charming, harmonious, or brings joy. In this context, it speaks to the admirable qualities of Saul and Jonathan, suggesting they possessed characteristics that made them cherished and well-regarded by the people, perhaps even by David himself, despite the complexities of their relationships. It highlights a positive aspect of their character that David chooses to remember and honor.
* **Pleasant (Hebrew, _'arev'_):** Meaning "agreeable," "sweet," or "pleasing," this term often refers to something that is enjoyable or acceptable. When paired with _na'em_, it forms a strong poetic expression emphasizing their endearing nature and the affection they inspired. It suggests that, despite Saul's later actions, there was an inherent attractiveness or charm to both men, particularly in their earlier lives, that David wished to commemorate.
* **Divided (Hebrew, _parad'_):** This verb means "to separate," "to divide," or "to be distinct." In the phrase "in their death they were not divided," it powerfully conveys their unity and shared fate. Despite the deep divisions that plagued Saul's reign, particularly his estrangement from David, and the internal conflicts within his own family, Saul and Jonathan met their end together on the battlefield. This emphasizes a poignant unity in their ultimate destiny, perhaps reflecting David's desire to see them reconciled in memory, or simply acknowledging their shared commitment to Israel's defense.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Saul and Jonathan [were] lovely and pleasant in their lives,"**: This opening clause sets a tone of affectionate remembrance, highlighting the admirable qualities of both father and son. David, who had suffered greatly at Saul's hands, chooses to focus on their positive attributes and the affection they inspired, rather than dwelling on the king's faults or their personal conflict. It speaks to a graciousness in David's character, acknowledging the inherent goodness or charm they possessed.
* **"and in their death they were not divided:"**: This phrase powerfully underscores the shared destiny of Saul and Jonathan. Despite the tumultuous relationship between Saul and David, and the internal strife within Saul's kingdom, father and son stood united in their final battle against the Philistines. This unity in death contrasts sharply with the divisions that marked Saul's later life, offering a poignant image of solidarity and shared sacrifice. It also subtly hints at the unbreakable bond between Jonathan and David, as Jonathan's ultimate loyalty remained with his father in battle, even as his heart was knit to David.
* **"they were swifter than eagles,"**: This is a powerful simile praising their speed and agility in battle. Eagles are known for their swift, decisive movements and predatory efficiency. This hyperbolic comparison celebrates their prowess as warriors, suggesting they were formidable and quick to engage their enemies, striking with the speed of a bird of prey.
* **"they were stronger than lions."**: Complementing the previous clause, this simile extols their immense strength and ferocity. Lions are symbols of power, courage, and untamed might. This comparison emphasizes their formidable physical strength and their unwavering courage in combat, portraying them as indomitable forces on the battlefield, capable of overpowering any foe. Together, these two similes paint a vivid picture of legendary military prowess.

#### Literary Devices
David's lament for Saul and Jonathan is rich with literary artistry. The entire passage functions as a **Eulogy** and a **Lament**, a formal expression of praise for the deceased intertwined with profound sorrow. The most prominent devices in this verse are **Simile** and **Hyperbole**. The comparisons "swifter than eagles" and "stronger than lions" are direct similes, using the implied "than" to liken the warriors to powerful animals, immediately evoking images of speed, agility, strength, and ferocity. These similes are also a form of **Hyperbole**, an intentional exaggeration not meant to be taken literally, but to emphasize the extraordinary, almost legendary, prowess of Saul and Jonathan. Furthermore, the verse employs **Parallelism**, particularly in the balanced structure of the descriptions: "lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided" creates a sense of continuity and shared destiny, while the pairing of "swifter than eagles" and "stronger than lions" provides a rhythmic and memorable tribute to their physical capabilities. The use of vivid **Imagery** through the animal comparisons (eagles, lions) appeals directly to the reader's imagination, painting a powerful picture of their heroic stature.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
David's lament for Saul and Jonathan transcends mere personal grief; it is a profound theological statement on human dignity, divine sovereignty, and the nature of true leadership. Despite Saul's repeated attempts on David's life and his ultimate rejection by God, David honors him as "the Lord's anointed," demonstrating a profound respect for the office and the divine appointment, even when the individual failed. This act of grace and forgiveness in the face of deep personal injury is a powerful testament to David's character, reflecting a heart that sought to honor God's ways above personal vengeance. The lament also highlights the enduring power of covenant loyalty, exemplified by Jonathan's unwavering friendship with David, a bond that defied political expediency and familial obligation, pointing to a higher form of love and commitment. In remembering them as "lovely and pleasant" and "not divided," David offers a redemptive lens through which to view their complex lives, choosing to focus on their virtues and shared sacrifice for Israel, rather than their flaws or the tragic circumstances of their end. This act of remembering in honor underscores the biblical principle of valuing human life and legacy, even amidst brokenness.

* [1 Samuel 24:6](/1_samuel/24-6 "David Refuses to Harm Saul")
* [1 Samuel 18:3](/1_samuel/18-3 "Jonathan's Covenant with David")
* [Romans 12:14](/romans/12-14 "Bless Those Who Persecute You")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's lament for Saul and Jonathan offers a profound model for how we might navigate grief, particularly when relationships have been complex or fraught with conflict. Rather than celebrating the demise of his persecutor, David chooses to honor Saul's life and office, focusing on his positive attributes and shared destiny with Jonathan. This challenges us to cultivate a spirit of grace and forgiveness, even towards those who have wronged us, seeking to remember their virtues and the common humanity we share. It reminds us that true leadership, as exemplified by David, involves not just strength and victory, but also compassion, respect, and the capacity to mourn for all, even adversaries. Furthermore, the verse celebrates the profound and enduring power of loyalty and friendship, epitomized by Jonathan's bond with David, which transcended personal danger and political turmoil. In our own lives, we are called to embody such steadfast loyalty and to courageously face challenges, drawing inspiration from the valor described, while always seeking to honor God in our responses to both triumph and tragedy.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does David's act of lamenting Saul, his persecutor, challenge our natural inclinations towards resentment or triumph over those who have wronged us?**
* **What does the phrase "lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided" teach us about the power of reconciliation and unity, even in remembrance?**
* **In what ways can we cultivate the kind of selfless loyalty and friendship exemplified by Jonathan, even when it comes at personal cost?**
* **How can we, in our own lives, honor the legacy of others, focusing on their virtues and contributions, even amidst their flaws or complex histories?**

### FAQ
**Why did David lament Saul, his persecutor?**

Answer: David's lament for Saul was a complex act rooted in several factors. Firstly, David consistently showed profound respect for Saul as "the Lord's anointed" ([1 Samuel 24:6](/1_samuel/24-6 "David Spares Saul at En Gedi")). Despite Saul's relentless attempts to kill him, David refused to lay a hand on the king, recognizing God's sovereignty in placing Saul on the throne. Secondly, the lament was a national act of mourning for a fallen king and a devastating military defeat. David, as the incoming king, needed to unify the nation and demonstrate his respect for the established order. Thirdly, the lament was deeply personal due to David's intense love and covenant friendship with Jonathan ([1 Samuel 18:3](/1_samuel/18-3 "Jonathan's Covenant with David")), whose death was a profound loss to him. David's lament showcased his character as a man after God's own heart, capable of forgiveness and honoring even those who opposed him.

**What is "The Song of the Bow" mentioned in connection with this lament?**

Answer: "The Song of the Bow" is the title David gave to this lament, as stated in [2 Samuel 1:18](/2_samuel/1-18 "David Teaches the Song of the Bow"). It was intended to be taught to the people of Judah, particularly focusing on the skill of archery. The "bow" likely refers to the military prowess of Israel's warriors, perhaps specifically Saul and Jonathan, who were skilled archers. The song served as a national elegy, a memorial to the fallen heroes, and a means of preserving their heroic memory, emphasizing the importance of military readiness and valor for the nation.

**What was the nature of Jonathan's friendship with David?**

Answer: Jonathan and David shared an extraordinary and profound friendship, often cited as one of the most beautiful examples of loyalty in the Bible. Their bond was described as a "covenant" ([1 Samuel 18:3](/1_samuel/18-3 "Jonathan's Covenant with David"); [1 Samuel 20:42](/1_samuel/20-42 "Jonathan and David Renew Their Covenant")), a deep spiritual and emotional connection. Jonathan, as Saul's son and heir, selflessly recognized David's divine anointing as the next king and actively protected David from his father's wrath, even at great personal risk ([1 Samuel 20:1-42](/1_samuel/20-42 "Jonathan Warns David")). Their friendship was characterized by mutual love, loyalty, and unwavering support, transcending political rivalry and personal danger.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
David's lament for Saul and Jonathan, though rooted in the tragedy of human loss, resonates with profound Christ-centered themes, ultimately pointing to the greater King and His ultimate victory. The "lovely and pleasant" qualities attributed to Saul and Jonathan, even in their flawed humanity, find their perfect and unblemished embodiment in the [person of Jesus Christ](/hebrews/7-26 "Christ, Holy and Blameless"), who is altogether lovely and without blemish. The profound, self-sacrificial loyalty of Jonathan to David, even to his own detriment, powerfully foreshadows the [unfathomable love of Christ](/john/15-13 "Greater Love Has No One Than This") for His friends, laying down His life for them. While Saul and Jonathan were "swifter than eagles" and "stronger than lions" in earthly battle, their valor ultimately led to death. Christ, however, demonstrates ultimate strength and swiftness in His decisive victory over sin, death, and the grave ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). The lament that Saul and Jonathan "in their death they were not divided" speaks to their unity in a shared earthly fate. Yet, in Christ, we find the ultimate unity and unbroken fellowship, for though He was "cut off from the land of the living" ([Isaiah 53:8](/isaiah/53-8 "Suffering Servant Cut Off")), He was not divided from the Father, and His resurrection ensures that all who are in Him are united with Him eternally, overcoming the division of death itself ([1 Corinthians 15:20-22](/1_corinthians/15-22 "Christ the Firstfruits of Resurrection")). He is the true King whose reign brings not just temporary victory but eternal peace and reconciliation for all who trust in Him ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-16 "Christ Our Peace")).

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.