### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Yôwnâthân**, represented by `{{H3129}}`, is a form of יְהוֹנָתָן and is used for at least ten different Israelites. It appears **42 times** across **35 unique verses**, with its most significant usage referring to the son of King Saul. The name itself means Jonathan.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3129}}` is most prominently associated with Jonathan, the son of King Saul `{{H7586}}`. He is depicted as a courageous military leader, commanding a portion of Israel's army [[1 Samuel 13:2]]. Jonathan famously initiated an attack by smiting `{{H5221}}` a Philistine `{{H6430}}` garrison, a bold move taken without his father's knowledge ([[1 Samuel 13:3]], [[1 Samuel 14:1]]). This act of faith led to a significant victory, as he declared that the LORD `{{H3068}}` had delivered the enemy into the hand of Israel `{{H3478}}` [[1 Samuel 14:12]]. Later, after being condemned to die `{{H4191}}` by Saul for unknowingly breaking a rash oath, the people `{{H5971}}` rescued Jonathan, affirming that he had "wrought with God" [[1 Samuel 14:45]]. Ultimately, Jonathan was slain by the Philistines in battle alongside his father [[1 Chronicles 10:2]]. The name also identifies other figures, including a son of Abiathar the priest `{{H3548}}` [[1 Kings 1:42]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the identity and story of Jonathan:
* `{{H7586}}` **Shâʼûwl** (Saul): This name refers to Jonathan's father, the first king of Israel. Jonathan's identity is inseparable from his relationship with his father, King Saul ([[1 Samuel 14:49]], [[1 Samuel 19:1]]).
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word is fundamental to Jonathan's story, consistently identifying him as the **son** of Saul. This familial tie is central to the drama of his life and loyalty ([[1 Samuel 13:16]], [[1 Samuel 14:1]]).
* `{{H1732}}` **Dâvid** (David): The future king of Israel. Jonathan's story is intertwined with David's, as shown when Saul spoke to his son Jonathan about his intent to kill David [[1 Samuel 19:1]].
* `{{H6430}}` **Pᵉlishtîy** (Philistine): These are the primary antagonists in Jonathan's military exploits. He fought bravely against them, but they were also the instrument of his death ([[1 Samuel 13:3]], [[1 Chronicles 10:2]]).
### Theological Significance
The narrative of `{{H3129}}` carries significant thematic weight, highlighting principles of faith, leadership, and divine justice.
* **Faith-Driven Courage:** Jonathan acts on his conviction that God will grant victory, moving forward when others are hesitant. He tells his armourbearer the LORD `{{H3068}}` has delivered the Philistines into Israel's hands, demonstrating proactive faith [[1 Samuel 14:12]].
* **Righteousness vs. Flawed Authority:** Jonathan's righteous actions, which brought salvation to Israel, are placed in direct opposition to his father's rash and foolish oath. Saul was willing to execute his own son, but the people recognized that Jonathan's work was with God `{{H430}}` [[1 Samuel 14:45]].
* **Tragic Consequence:** Despite his heroism and faith, Jonathan's life ends tragically in battle. His death is linked to the downfall of his father's house, showing that even the righteous can be caught in the consequences of the failures of others [[1 Chronicles 10:2]].
### Summary
In summary, **Yôwnâthân** `{{H3129}}` is a name that, while used for several individuals, is defined by the character of Saul's son. He emerges from the scriptural account as a figure of immense courage and faith, whose actions were guided by a trust in God rather than by human authority. His story serves as a powerful illustration of heroic virtue, the complexities of loyalty, and the tragic consequences that can unfold even around the faithful.
TRV