Jonathan

Lore & Background

Jonathan first appears as a commander of a thousand men in Gibeah of Benjamin (1 Samuel 13:2). He initiates conflict with the Philistines by attacking their garrison at Geba, prompting Saul to rally the Hebrews (1 Samuel 13:3). During a later battle, only Saul and Jonathan possess swords or spears among the Israelite forces (1 Samuel 13:22). In a bold solo raid, Jonathan and his armor-bearer climb a rocky pass between the crags Bozez and Seneh to attack a Philistine garrison (1 Samuel 14:4-6, 1 Samuel 14:12-13). They kill about twenty men, and the ensuing panic leads to a broader Israelite victory, with even Hebrews who had sided with the Philistines switching allegiance (1 Samuel 14:14, 1 Samuel 14:21). Jonathan unknowingly violates a fast ordered by Saul by tasting honey, and is condemned to death by lot (1 Samuel 14:27, 1 Samuel 14:42-44). The people intervene and rescue him, citing his great salvation wrought with God (1 Samuel 14:45). Later, Jonathan forms a deep covenant of friendship with David, giving him his robe, armor, and weapons (1 Samuel 18:1, 1 Samuel 18:3-4).

Reader's Guide

The passages portray Jonathan as a courageous and faithful warrior who trusts in the Lord's ability to save by many or by few (1 Samuel 14:6). He acts independently, even without informing his father Saul (1 Samuel 14:1), and his initiative leads to a significant victory. Despite being the king's son, he is not spared from the consequences of a rash oath; Saul vows that Jonathan must die for tasting honey, but the people honor Jonathan's deeds and ransom him (1 Samuel 14:44-45). Jonathan's loyalty is also shown in his covenant with David, whom he loves as his own soul, symbolized by the gift of his royal garments and weapons (1 Samuel 18:1, 1 Samuel 18:3-4). The narrative presents Jonathan as a figure of both military valor and personal integrity, whose life is intertwined with the fortunes of Israel and the rise of David.

Did You Know?

• Jonathan and his armor-bearer killed about twenty Philistines in a half-acre area (1 Samuel 14:14).
• Jonathan's eyes were enlightened after tasting honey, even though he had not heard his father's oath (1 Samuel 14:27, 1 Samuel 14:29).
• The people of Israel rescued Jonathan from death, saying he had wrought with God that day (1 Samuel 14:45).
• Jonathan gave David his robe, garments, sword, bow, and girdle as a sign of covenant (1 Samuel 18:4).

Notable Quotes (Wikiquote)

"(To David) Do not fear, for the hand of Saul my father shall not find you. You shall be king over Israel, and I shall be next to you. Even my father Saul knows that." — Jonathan "Saul and Jonathan were beloved and pleasant in their lives,And in their death they were not divided;They were swifter than eagles,They were stronger than lions." — Jonathan "I am distressed for you, my brother Jonathan;You have been very pleasant to me;Your love to me was wonderful,Surpassing the love of women." — Jonathan