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1 Samuel 20:12

And Jonathan said unto David, O LORD God of Israel, when I have sounded my father about to morrow any time, or the third day, and, behold, if there be good toward David, and I then send not unto thee, and shew it thee;

1 Samuel 20:12 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, Jonathan is expressing his deep friendship and loyalty towards David. By calling upon the LORD God of Israel, Jonathan is emphasizing the seriousness of the oath he is about to make with David. He pledges to inform David of any potential danger from King Saul, Jonathan's father, towards David. This demonstrates Jonathan's willingness to risk his relationship with his father in order to protect his friend. Jonathan's actions highlight the importance of loyalty and trust in relationships, even in difficult circumstances. This verse serves as a reminder of the power of true friendship and the sacrifices one may need to make to honor those bonds. It also reflects the biblical value of keeping one's word and being truthful even when faced with challenging situations. Overall, this verse showcases the strong bond between Jonathan and David and the lengths they are willing to go to support each other in the face of adversity.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of 1 Samuel, we see a beautiful example of loyalty and friendship between Jonathan and David. Jonathan, the son of King Saul, expresses his commitment to David by seeking out information from his father regarding his feelings towards David. Jonathan's reverence for the Lord is evident as he addresses David with respect, acknowledging the Lord God of Israel. By offering to inform David of his father's intentions, Jonathan demonstrates his trust in David and his desire to protect him from any harm. The use of the word "sounded" in this verse also highlights Jonathan's strategic approach in gathering information before making a decision. Through theological interpretation and word studies, we can appreciate the depth of the friendship between Jonathan and David, as well as the importance of trust and loyalty in relationships.

1 Samuel 20:12 in other translations

American Standard Version

And Jonathan said unto David, Jehovah, the God of Israel, [be witness] : when I have sounded my father about this time to-morrow, [or] the third day, behold, if there be good toward David, shall I not then send unto thee, and disclose it unto thee?

World English Bible

Jonathan said to David, “By Yahweh, the God of Israel, when I have sounded my father about this time tomorrow, or the third day, behold, if there is good toward David, shall I not then send to you, and disclose it to you?

Douay-Rheims

Jonathan said to David: O Lord God of Israel, if I shall discover my father's mind, to morrow, or the day after, and there be any thing good for David, and I send not immediately to thee, and make it known to thee,

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then Ionathan sayde to Dauid, O Lord God of Israel, when I haue groped my fathers minde to morow at this time, or within this three dayes, and if it be well with Dauid, and I then send not vnto thee, and shewe it thee,