“And as touching the matter which thou and I have spoken of, behold, the LORD be between thee and me forever.”
1 Samuel 20:23 (KJV) is part of a conversation between Jonathan, the son of King Saul, and his close friend David. To understand the significance of this verse, it is essential to have some context about their relationship.
At this point in the narrative, David had gained prominence in Israel for his victory over Goliath and had become a close ally of Jonathan. However, Saul, Jonathan’s father and the reigning king, became increasingly jealous of David’s popularity and sought to kill him. Jonathan was torn between his loyalty to his father and his deep friendship with David.
In this verse, Jonathan and David are discussing their situation. Jonathan wants to ascertain Saul’s intentions towards David. They had arranged a plan to test Saul’s reaction during a feast when David’s absence would be noticed. If Saul showed hostility, it would confirm David’s suspicions and necessitate his escape.
The phrase, “And as touching the matter which thou and I have spoken of,” refers to the previous conversation and plan between Jonathan and David. Jonathan wants to ensure that they are on the same page regarding the situation with Saul.
Jonathan’s statement, “behold, the LORD be between thee and me forever,” holds significant meaning. It expresses the depth of their friendship and the trust they had in each other. They understood that their bond was not merely based on personal affection but was rooted in their shared faith in God.
By invoking the name of the LORD, Jonathan acknowledges that their relationship is not just a human connection but is under the divine protection and guidance of God. He expresses his desire for God to be a witness and a guarantor of their commitment to each other.
The phrase “forever” signifies the everlasting nature of their friendship and the hope that God would preserve it throughout their lives. It also reflects their recognition that God’s presence and involvement in their lives extend beyond their present circumstances and challenges.
This verse highlights the importance of having godly friendships and alliances. Jonathan and David’s relationship was built on trust, loyalty, and a shared faith in God. Their commitment to each other and their reliance on God set an example for us to cultivate meaningful relationships with others who share our values and beliefs.
