1 Samuel 14:27

But Jonathan heard not when his father charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put forth the end of the rod that [was] in his hand, and dipped it in an honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes were enlightened.

But Jonathan {H3129} heard {H8085} not when his father {H1} charged {H7650} the people {H5971} with the oath {H7650}: wherefore he put forth {H7971} the end {H7097} of the rod {H4294} that was in his hand {H3027}, and dipped {H2881} it in an honeycomb {H3295}{H1706}, and put {H7725} his hand {H3027} to his mouth {H6310}; and his eyes {H5869} were enlightened {H215}.

But Y'honatan hadn't heard his father charging the people with the oath, so he put out the end of the staff in his hand, dipped it in the honeycomb and raised it to his mouth; whereupon his eyes lit up.

Jonathan, however, had not heard that his father had charged the people with the oath. So he reached out the end of the staff in his hand, dipped it into the honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes brightened.

But Jonathan heard not when his father charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put forth the end of the rod that was in his hand, and dipped it in the honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes were enlightened.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Samuel 14:27 (KJV)

1 Samuel 14:27 provides a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines, highlighting the character of Jonathan and the consequences of King Saul's leadership. This verse specifically details Jonathan's unwitting transgression of a rash oath made by his father, King Saul.

Context

The narrative of 1 Samuel 14 describes a significant battle where the Philistines had oppressed Israel. Jonathan, King Saul's son, had initiated a daring and successful attack against the Philistine garrison, greatly aiding the Israelite army and causing panic among the enemy (see 1 Samuel 14:6). However, during the pursuit of the fleeing Philistines, King Saul had laid a strict oath upon the people, forbidding them to eat any food until evening, presumably to ensure a complete victory without distraction. The army, exhausted from battle and hunger, was severely weakened. Jonathan, unaware of this oath because he was actively engaged in battle, found a honeycomb in the woods.

Key Themes

  • Unintended Consequences of Rash Oaths: Saul's oath, though perhaps intended to demonstrate zeal or piety, ultimately hindered his own troops and nearly cost his son's life. It exemplifies the dangers of making rash vows without full consideration.
  • Jonathan's Innocence and Vitality: Jonathan's action was not an act of rebellion but of ignorance and necessity. His physical refreshment from the honey immediately invigorated him, contrasting sharply with the faintness of the rest of the Israelite army.
  • Divine Provision and Refreshment: The discovery of the honeycomb in the wilderness can be seen as an instance of God's provision for His servant Jonathan, who was actively fighting for Israel's deliverance. The immediate physical benefit ("his eyes were enlightened") underscores the vital role of sustenance.
  • Leadership Contrast: The chapter subtly contrasts Saul's legalistic and burdensome leadership with Jonathan's practical, faith-driven initiative and his focus on the well-being and effectiveness of the people.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "his eyes were enlightened" (KJV) is significant. In Hebrew, the verb used is 'or (אוֹר), meaning "to enlighten," "to give light," or "to shine." Here, it signifies a physical and mental revitalization. Jonathan's vision and overall physical state were instantly improved; his fatigue lifted, and his vigor returned. This is not merely about seeing better, but about a restoration of energy and clarity, a brightening of his countenance, which contrasts with the faintness and dimness of the rest of the army.

Practical Application

This verse offers several timeless lessons. For leaders, it serves as a caution against imposing unnecessary or impractical burdens on those they lead, emphasizing the need for wisdom and discernment rather than impulsive decisions. For individuals, it highlights the importance of physical and mental well-being in effective service and reminds us that God often provides for our needs in unexpected ways. Furthermore, it underscores the principle that true piety should not lead to actions that harm or hinder others, but rather build them up.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 14:29 (3 votes)

    Then said Jonathan, My father hath troubled the land: see, I pray you, how mine eyes have been enlightened, because I tasted a little of this honey.

  • 1 Samuel 30:12 (3 votes)

    And they gave him a piece of a cake of figs, and two clusters of raisins: and when he had eaten, his spirit came again to him: for he had eaten no bread, nor drunk [any] water, three days and three nights.

  • 1 Samuel 14:43 (3 votes)

    Then Saul said to Jonathan, Tell me what thou hast done. And Jonathan told him, and said, I did but taste a little honey with the end of the rod that [was] in mine hand, [and], lo, I must die.

  • Proverbs 25:26 (2 votes)

    ΒΆ A righteous man falling down before the wicked [is as] a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.