1 Samuel 20 explained: A Friend Warns David to Flee

David pleads his case (vv. 1-11)

David insists he has done nothing wrong, but Jonathan cannot believe his father would hide a murder plan from him. David proposes a test: he will skip the New Moon feast, a monthly religious meal at the king's table, and they will see how Saul reacts.

A promise for their families (vv. 12-17)

Jonathan swears to warn David and openly assumes David will one day replace Saul as king, even though Jonathan is the heir. In return he asks David to protect Jonathan's descendants, at a time when a new king often wiped out the old king's family.

The arrow signal (vv. 18-23)

Since a second meeting might be too dangerous, they agree on a code. Where Jonathan tells a boy the arrows have landed will tell David, hiding nearby, whether he is safe or must run.

Saul's rage at the feast (vv. 24-34)

On the first day Saul assumes David is ritually unclean, meaning barred from a sacred meal by something like touching a dead body. On the second day he insults Jonathan through his mother, warns that David threatens Jonathan's future as king, and throws a spear at his own son.

A tearful goodbye (vv. 35-42)

The arrow lands beyond the boy, the agreed sign of danger. David bows three times as to a prince, then the two friends kiss and weep, and Jonathan sends him off reminding him of their oath before the LORD.

Key verse: 1 Samuel 20:42

Where Christians differ

Most Christians read David and Jonathan's bond as a deep covenant friendship, while some readers, including some Christians, see romantic love in the language of verses 17 and 41, and the text leaves room for that debate.

Something to think about

When loyalty to a friend and loyalty to family pull in opposite directions, how do you decide which one should win?