“And Jonathan answered Saul, David earnestly asked leave of me to go to Bethlehem.”
This verse is part of a larger narrative in the book of 1 Samuel that depicts the complex relationship between David, who would become the future king of Israel, and Saul, the reigning king at the time. Let’s explore the context and significance of this particular verse.
1 Samuel 20:28 is situated in the midst of a conversation between Jonathan, Saul’s son and David’s close friend, and Saul himself. David was being pursued by Saul, who had become jealous and fearful of David’s rising popularity and success. At this point in the story, David had requested permission from Jonathan to go to Bethlehem, his hometown, under the pretense of offering a sacrifice there.
Jonathan, being aware of David’s precarious situation, comes to his defense when Saul questions David’s whereabouts. In his response, Jonathan tells Saul that David earnestly asked for leave to go to Bethlehem. This implies that David had a genuine and urgent reason for wanting to leave Saul’s presence.
David’s Character:David’s request for leave indicates his respect and obedience toward Saul as the rightful king. Despite the tension between them, David did not seek to defy or disrespect Saul openly.
Trust and Friendship:Jonathan’s willingness to intercede on David’s behalf reveals the deep friendship and trust between them. Jonathan understands David’s plight and stands up for him, which further emphasizes the bond between these two individuals.
Deception for Safety:David’s true intention for going to Bethlehem was to seek refuge and protection from Saul’s increasing hostility. By stating that he wanted to offer a sacrifice, David cleverly concealed his true purpose, as Saul might have tried to prevent him from leaving or pursue him more vigorously if he knew the real reason.
Overall, this verse showcases the intricate dynamics at play during this tumultuous period in Israel’s history. It highlights David’s integrity, Jonathan’s loyalty, and the lengths to which David had to go to protect himself from Saul’s wrath. It also foreshadows the eventual rise of David as the chosen king of Israel and the strains it would place on the relationship between him and Saul’s family.
By studying this passage, we can glean insights into principles such as friendship, trust, loyalty, and discernment, as well as the complexities of navigating difficult relationships. It reminds us of the importance of acting with integrity and seeking God’s guidance in challenging circumstances.
