1 Samuel 20:3
And David sware moreover, and said, Thy father certainly knoweth that I have found grace in thine eyes; and he saith, Let not Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved: but truly as the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, there is but a step between me and death.
1 Samuel 20:3 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Book of Samuel, David is speaking to Jonathan, the son of King Saul. David is expressing his gratitude for the friendship and loyalty that Jonathan has shown towards him. He acknowledges that King Saul is aware of the favor he has found in Jonathan's eyes but has advised Jonathan not to let him know, as it may cause grief. David then solemnly swears by the name of the Lord and the life of Jonathan, emphasizing the precariousness of his situation. By stating that there is only a step between him and death, David is highlighting the dangers and challenges he faces as he navigates his relationship with King Saul, who has become increasingly jealous and hostile towards him. This verse underscores the complexity of David's circumstances and his reliance on his friendship with Jonathan for support and assistance in the face of impending danger.
Theological Overview
And David's oath to Jonathan in 1 Samuel 20:3 carries significant theological and emotional weight. In this declaration, David emphasizes the precariousness of his situation, highlighting the closeness of death. This statement reveals David's acute awareness of his own mortality and vulnerability, despite his courage and military prowess. The phrase "there is but a step between me and death" serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of human life and the ever-present possibility of danger. Furthermore, David's oath underscores his trust in the LORD as the ultimate sustainer of life. By invoking the name of the LORD and Jonathan's own soul, David underscores the sacredness of life and the divine protection that he believes guides his every step. This passage showcases David's faith in the LORD's providence and his deep bond with Jonathan, as he navigates a perilous path filled with political intrigue and personal danger.
1 Samuel 20:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
And David sware moreover, and said, Thy father knoweth well that I have found favor in thine eyes; and he saith, Let not Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved: but truly as Jehovah liveth, and as thy soul liveth, there is but a step between me and death.
World English Bible
David swore moreover, and said, “Your father knows well that I have found favor in your eyes; and he says, ‘Don’t let Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved:’ but truly as Yahweh lives, and as your soul lives, there is but a step between me and death.”
Douay-Rheims
And he swore again to David. And David said: Thy father certainly knoweth that I have found grace in thy sight, and he will say: Let not Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved. But truly as the Lord liveth, and thy soul liveth, there is but one step (as I may say) between me and death.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Dauid sware againe and sayd, Thy father knoweth that I haue found grace in thine eyes: therefore he thinketh, Ionathan shall not knowe it, lest he be sorie: but in deede, as the Lord liueth, and as thy soule liueth, there is but a step betweene me and death.