Online Bible Commentary
Select Language
Select font sizeDark ModeSet to dark mode

1 Samuel 20:22 meaning

The deep friendship between David and Jonathan, characterized by love and loyalty, comes to a poignant moment in the narrative. At this point in the story, Jonathan is faced with an impossible choice: loyalty to his father Saul, who is seeking to kill David, or to his beloved friend, the rightful anointed king. The dynamics of their relationship are steeped in a commitment to God’s will over personal gain, exemplifying the concept of covenant loyalty that echoes throughout their interactions.

In the verse discussed, Jonathan signals to David about the danger he faces due to Saul's intentions. This act of communication symbolizes a profound bond—sacrificing his own safety for David's protection. It encapsulates the theme of divine allegiance versus earthly loyalty. The circumstances of this separation remind us that sometimes, adhering to God’s purpose requires difficult choices and painful partings. Their farewell solidifies the covenant they made with one another, emphasizing that true friendship can sometimes mean choosing to protect one another at great personal cost.

In the context of 1 Samuel 20:22, this moment underscores the tension between divine destiny and human relationships amidst a backdrop of impending peril.

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • Acts 20:25-38 meaning. Paul tells the Ephesian elders they will never see him again. He warns them to be on guard for themselves and the people in their church, because false teachers will come in to corrupt the truth, like wolves attacking a flock of sheep. The elders’ job is to protect the flock and trust in Christ. Paul reminds them to remember his example, and to faithfully live out God’s word in their lives so that they might receive the inheritance of Christ. Lastly, he reminds them to give generously and bless those who are needy. The elders weep and embrace Paul, and see him off to his ship.
  • Genesis 14:7-9 meaning. After conquering four cities, King Chedorlaomer and his three allies defeated two more in route to the Jordan plains. Then they engaged the five allied kings of the Jordan Valley.
  • Deuteronomy 22:1-4 meaning. Moses exhorted his fellow Israelites to help preserve his brother’s life by taking care of his brother’s property. Lost property was to be returned to his brother. This included his brother’s livestock, which was many Israelites’ livelihood.