Meaning of 1 Samuel 20:7

This verse, spoken by Jonathan to David, outlines a sophisticated and dangerous signaling system designed to ascertain Saul's disposition towards David without directly confronting the king. Jonathan, bound by loyalty to both his father, King Saul, and his beloved friend, David, devises a plan to gauge Saul's intentions. The "very well" signifies a calm, indifferent, or even positive reaction from Saul, which would indicate that David is not in immediate peril and can return to the king's presence. Conversely, Saul's anger ("loses his temper") would be an unmistakable sign of his murderous intent, signaling to David that he must flee and remain in hiding. This exchange highlights the precariousness of David's situation, living under the constant threat of Saul's jealousy and paranoia.

Context and Background

The narrative unfolds during a period of intense persecution for David. Having gained significant military victories and the adoration of the people, David has become a perceived threat to King Saul's throne. Saul's initial admiration for David has curdled into a consuming envy and paranoia, leading him to attempt to kill David on multiple occasions (1 Samuel 18:10-11). Jonathan, Saul's son and heir, deeply loves David and is torn between his filial duty and his profound friendship. This verse is part of a larger plan Jonathan orchestrates to protect David, involving a three-day period where David is to hide in the field, and Jonathan will subtly probe his father's feelings. The "young man" mentioned in the verse is likely a servant who will carry out Jonathan's instructions regarding the arrows.

Key Themes and Messages

• Deception as a Means of Protection: Jonathan employs a stratagem, a form of benevolent deception, to safeguard David's life. This demonstrates that in dire circumstances, indirect methods can be necessary for survival.
• Loyalty and Friendship: The verse powerfully illustrates the depth of Jonathan's loyalty to David, placing his friend's life above his own potential familial discord. This friendship transcends political and familial obligations.
• The Corrupting Nature of Power and Fear: Saul's escalating paranoia showcases how unchecked power, fueled by fear and insecurity, can lead to irrational and destructive behavior, even against those who have served him well.
• Divine Providence in Peril: While not explicitly stated, the intricate plan and its successful execution hint at God's hand working through human relationships and ingenuity to protect David, who is destined to be king.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This passage offers a compelling example of discernment and prudence in the face of adversity. David and Jonathan are forced to rely on their wits and each other to navigate a dangerous political landscape. For believers today, it underscores the importance of:

• Seeking Wise Counsel: David relies on Jonathan's plan, demonstrating the value of trusted advisors in difficult times.
• Understanding the "Spirits" of Situations: Just as David and Jonathan sought to understand Saul's "spirit," Christians are called to discern the spiritual atmosphere around them, identifying potential dangers or opportunities.
• Strategic Action: The plan is not passive waiting but an active, though covert, engagement with the threat. This can translate to proactive faith, making wise choices and taking necessary steps to protect oneself and others from spiritual or practical harm.
• The Nature of True Friendship: The selfless love and sacrifice demonstrated by Jonathan serve as a model for Christian fellowship and the profound bonds that can be forged in shared faith and mutual support.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This episode is a crucial turning point in David's life, marking his transition from a celebrated hero to a fugitive. It foreshadows the many trials and persecutions David would endure before ascending to the throne. Furthermore, the theme of a divinely appointed leader being hunted by the current, unrighteous ruler resonates throughout Scripture, notably in the life of Jesus Christ, who was also pursued by the religious and political authorities of his day. The betrayal and jealousy displayed by Saul also serve as a stark contrast to the faithful leadership God desires, setting a precedent for the kingship that would eventually be embodied by David and, ultimately, by Christ.

Analogies

• A Coded Message: Jonathan's plan is akin to a secret handshake or a coded message used by spies to communicate sensitive information without alerting the enemy. The "very well" and the "loses his temper" are the signals that convey critical intelligence.
• A Weather Forecast: The plan acts like a sophisticated weather forecast; if the skies are clear ("very well"), David can proceed; if a storm is brewing ("loses his temper"), he must take shelter.
• A Trap Detector: David is essentially being given a way to detect a hidden trap. Saul's anger is the trigger that reveals the danger, allowing David to avoid it.

Relation to Other Verses

• Proverbs 12:18: "There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Jonathan's wise counsel and careful planning contrast with Saul's rash, murderous words and actions.
• John 15:13: "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." Jonathan's actions embody this principle, as he risks his own standing and potentially his life to protect David.
• Psalm 59: This psalm is traditionally attributed to David during a time of hiding from Saul, and its themes of peril, enemies, and reliance on God's protection resonate with the situation described in 1 Samuel 20. David cries out, "Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; protect me from those who rise against me."