2 Samuel 1:22
New International Version
“From the blood of the slain, from the flesh of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan did not turn back, the sword of Saul did not return unsatisfied.

New Living Translation
The bow of Jonathan was powerful, and the sword of Saul did its mighty work. They shed the blood of their enemies and pierced the bodies of mighty heroes.

English Standard Version
“From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan turned not back, and the sword of Saul returned not empty.

Berean Standard Bible
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan did not retreat, and the sword of Saul did not return empty.

King James Bible
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan turned not back, and the sword of Saul returned not empty.

New King James Version
From the blood of the slain, From the fat of the mighty, The bow of Jonathan did not turn back, And the sword of Saul did not return empty.

New American Standard Bible
“From the blood of those slaughtered, from the fat of the mighty, The bow of Jonathan did not turn back, And the sword of Saul did not return unstained.

NASB 1995
“From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, The bow of Jonathan did not turn back, And the sword of Saul did not return empty.

NASB 1977
“From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, The bow of Jonathan did not turn back, And the sword of Saul did not return empty.

Legacy Standard Bible
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, The bow of Jonathan did not turn back, And the sword of Saul did not return empty.

Amplified Bible
“From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, The bow of Jonathan did not turn back, And the sword of Saul did not return empty.

Christian Standard Bible
Jonathan’s bow never retreated, Saul’s sword never returned unstained, from the blood of the slain, from the flesh of the mighty.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Jonathan’s bow never retreated, Saul’s sword never returned unstained, from the blood of the slain, from the bodies of the mighty.

American Standard Version
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, The bow of Jonathan turned not back, And the sword of Saul returned not empty.

Contemporary English Version
The arrows of Jonathan struck, and warriors died. The sword of Saul cut the enemy apart.

English Revised Version
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan turned not back, and the sword of Saul returned not empty.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
From the blood of those killed and the fat of the warriors, Jonathan's bow did not turn away, nor did Saul's sword return unused.

Good News Translation
Jonathan's bow was deadly, the sword of Saul was merciless, striking down the mighty, killing the enemy.

International Standard Version
From the blood of the slain, from the blood of the valiant, Jonathan's bow would not retreat nor would Saul's sword return empty.

Majority Standard Bible
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan did not retreat, and the sword of Saul did not return empty.

NET Bible
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of warriors, the bow of Jonathan was not turned away. The sword of Saul never returned empty.

New Heart English Bible
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, Jonathan's bow did not retreat. Saul's sword did not return empty.

Webster's Bible Translation
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan turned not back, and the sword of Saul returned not empty.

World English Bible
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, Jonathan’s bow didn’t turn back. Saul’s sword didn’t return empty.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
From the blood of the wounded, "" From the fat of the mighty, "" The bow of Jonathan "" Has not turned backward; And the sword of Saul does not return empty.

Young's Literal Translation
From the blood of the wounded, From the fat of the mighty, The bow of Jonathan Hath not turned backward; And the sword of Saul doth not return empty.

Smith's Literal Translation
From the blood of the wounded and from the fat of the powerful, the bow of Jonathan drew not back in the rear, and the sword of Saul will not turn back empty.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the valiant, the arrow of Jonathan never turned back, and the sword of Saul did not return empty.

Catholic Public Domain Version
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the strong, the arrow of Jonathan never turned back, and the sword of Saul did not return empty.

New American Bible
From the blood of the slain, from the bodies of the warriors, The bow of Jonathan did not turn back, nor the sword of Saul return unstained.

New Revised Standard Version
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan did not turn back, nor the sword of Saul return empty.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan turned not back and the sword of Saul returned not empty.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
From the blood of the slain and from the fat of the mighty the bow of Yonathan was not turned back, and the sword of Shaul had not returned empty!
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, The bow of Jonathan turned not back, And the sword of Saul returned not empty.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
From the blood of the slain, and from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan returned not empty; and the sword of Saul turned not back empty.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
David's Song for Saul and Jonathan
21O mountains of Gilboa, may you have no dew or rain, no fields yielding offerings of grain. For there the shield of the mighty was defiled, the shield of Saul, no longer anointed with oil. 22From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan did not retreat, and the sword of Saul did not return empty. 23Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life, were not divided in death. They were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.…

Cross References
Judges 5:8
When they chose new gods, then war came to their gates. Not a shield or spear was found among forty thousand in Israel.

1 Samuel 18:7
And as the women danced, they sang out: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.”

1 Samuel 31:1-4
Now the Philistines fought against Israel, and the men of Israel fled before them, and many fell slain on Mount Gilboa. / The Philistines hotly pursued Saul and his sons, and they killed Saul’s sons Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua. / When the battle intensified against Saul, the archers overtook him and wounded him critically. ...

Isaiah 34:6
The sword of the LORD is bathed in blood. It drips with fat—with the blood of lambs and goats, with the fat of the kidneys of rams. For the LORD has a sacrifice in Bozrah, a great slaughter in the land of Edom.

Jeremiah 46:10
For that day belongs to the Lord GOD of Hosts, a day of vengeance against His foes. The sword will devour until it is satisfied, until it is quenched with their blood. For the Lord GOD of Hosts will hold a sacrifice in the land of the north by the River Euphrates.

Ezekiel 21:9-11
“Son of man, prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord says: ‘A sword, a sword, sharpened and polished— / it is sharpened for the slaughter, polished to flash like lightning! Should we rejoice in the scepter of My son? The sword despises every such stick. / The sword is appointed to be polished, to be grasped in the hand. It is sharpened and polished, to be placed in the hand of the slayer.

Psalm 7:12-13
If one does not repent, God will sharpen His sword; He has bent and strung His bow. / He has prepared His deadly weapons; He ordains His arrows with fire.

Psalm 45:3-5
Strap your sword at your side, O mighty warrior; appear in your majesty and splendor. / In your splendor ride forth in victory on behalf of truth and humility and justice; may your right hand show your awesome deeds. / Your arrows pierce the hearts of the king’s foes; the nations fall beneath your feet.

Psalm 78:62-64
He surrendered His people to the sword because He was enraged by His heritage. / Fire consumed His young men, and their maidens were left without wedding songs. / His priests fell by the sword, but their widows could not lament.

Psalm 89:43
You have bent the edge of his sword and have not sustained him in battle.

Psalm 144:10
to Him who gives victory to kings, who frees His servant David from the deadly sword.

Habakkuk 3:9
You brandished Your bow; You called for many arrows. Selah You split the earth with rivers.

Revelation 19:15
And from His mouth proceeds a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and He will rule them with an iron scepter. He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty.

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Ephesians 6:17
And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.


Treasury of Scripture

From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan turned not back, and the sword of Saul returned not empty.

the bow

1 Samuel 14:6-14
And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for there is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few…

1 Samuel 18:4
And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle.

Isaiah 34:6,7
The sword of the LORD is filled with blood, it is made fat with fatness, and with the blood of lambs and goats, with the fat of the kidneys of rams: for the LORD hath a sacrifice in Bozrah, and a great slaughter in the land of Idumea…

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Backward Blood Bow Dead Empty Fat Flesh Jonathan Jonathan's Mighty Saul Saul's Slain Strong Sword Turn Turned Unused Wounded
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Backward Blood Bow Dead Empty Fat Flesh Jonathan Jonathan's Mighty Saul Saul's Slain Strong Sword Turn Turned Unused Wounded
2 Samuel 1
1. The Amalekite who accused himself of Saul's death is slain
17. David laments Saul and Jonathan with a song














From the blood of the slain
This phrase highlights the aftermath of battle, emphasizing the cost of war and the lives lost. In the context of ancient Israel, warfare was a common occurrence, and the shedding of blood was often seen as a necessary sacrifice for the protection and expansion of the nation. The "blood of the slain" serves as a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the valor of those who fought. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages that speak of the consequences of sin and the need for atonement, such as in Leviticus 17:11, where blood is described as making atonement for the soul.

From the fat of the mighty
The "fat of the mighty" refers to the strength and power of the warriors who have fallen. In ancient Near Eastern culture, "fat" often symbolized abundance and strength. The mighty warriors of Israel, including Saul and Jonathan, were renowned for their prowess in battle. This phrase underscores the loss of Israel's elite fighters and the impact on the nation's military capabilities. It also reflects the biblical theme of the reversal of fortunes, where the strong and powerful are brought low, as seen in passages like 1 Samuel 2:4, where the bows of the mighty are broken.

The bow of Jonathan did not retreat
Jonathan, the son of Saul, is depicted as a courageous and skilled archer. His bow not retreating signifies his bravery and steadfastness in battle. Jonathan's loyalty and friendship with David are well-documented, and his actions in battle reflect his commitment to Israel and to God's purposes. This phrase can be seen as a testament to Jonathan's character and his willingness to stand firm in the face of danger. It also foreshadows the ultimate victory of God's anointed, as Jonathan's unwavering stance is reminiscent of the steadfastness of Christ, who did not retreat from His mission.

And the sword of Saul did not return empty
Saul, the first king of Israel, is portrayed as a formidable warrior whose sword did not return empty, meaning it was effective in battle. This phrase highlights Saul's role as a leader and protector of Israel, despite his eventual downfall. The imagery of the sword is significant throughout Scripture, often symbolizing judgment and the Word of God, as seen in Hebrews 4:12. Saul's effectiveness in battle serves as a reminder of God's provision for Israel through its leaders, even when they are flawed. This also points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ, the true King, whose word and judgment are perfect and complete.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. Known for his bravery and loyalty, Jonathan's bow is highlighted as a symbol of his prowess in battle.

2. Saul
The first king of Israel, anointed by Samuel. Saul's reign was marked by military campaigns and personal struggles, particularly with David.

3. David
The future king of Israel, who mourns the deaths of Saul and Jonathan. He is the author of the lament in which this verse is found.

4. Mount Gilboa
The location where Saul and Jonathan were killed in battle against the Philistines, marking a significant turning point in Israel's history.

5. The Philistines
A recurring enemy of Israel, known for their military strength and frequent conflicts with the Israelites.
Teaching Points
The Reality of War and Loss
This verse reflects the harsh realities of war and the personal losses that accompany it. As Christians, we are reminded to pray for peace and comfort for those affected by conflict.

Valor and Loyalty
Jonathan's and Saul's weapons are depicted as effective and relentless. This can inspire us to be steadfast and loyal in our commitments, whether in faith, family, or community.

The Complexity of Relationships
David's lament shows his complex relationship with Saul and Jonathan. It teaches us to navigate our relationships with grace, even when they are complicated.

The Sovereignty of God
Despite the tragedy, God's plan continues to unfold. We are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty, even in difficult circumstances.

The Importance of Mourning
David's lament is a model for expressing grief. It is important to allow ourselves to mourn and seek God's comfort in times of loss.Verse 22. - From the blood of the slain. In old time, Saul and Jonathan had been victorious warriors, who had returned from the battlefield stained with the blood of their enemies: from this battle they return no more, and their weapons have lost their old renown.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
From the blood
מִדַּ֣ם (mid·dam)
Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1818: Blood, of man, an animal, the juice of the grape, bloodshed

of the slain,
חֲלָלִ֗ים (ḥă·lā·lîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 2491: Pierced, polluted

from the fat
מֵחֵ֙לֶב֙ (mê·ḥê·leḇ)
Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 2459: Fat, richest, choice part

of the mighty,
גִּבּוֹרִ֔ים (gib·bō·w·rîm)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 1368: Powerful, warrior, tyrant

the bow
קֶ֚שֶׁת (qe·šeṯ)
Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 7198: A bow, for, shooting, the iris

of Jonathan
יְה֣וֹנָתָ֔ן (yə·hō·w·nā·ṯān)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3083: Jonathan -- 'the LORD has given', the name of a number of Israelites

did not
לֹ֥א (lō)
Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

retreat,
נָשׂ֖וֹג (nā·śō·wḡ)
Verb - Nifal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7734: To retreat

and the sword
וְחֶ֣רֶב (wə·ḥe·reḇ)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 2719: Drought, a cutting instrument, as a, knife, sword

of Saul
שָׁא֔וּל (šā·’ūl)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 7586: Saul -- first king of Israel, also an Edomite and two Israelites

did not
לֹ֥א (lō)
Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

return
תָשׁ֖וּב (ṯā·šūḇ)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 7725: To turn back, in, to retreat, again

empty.
רֵיקָֽם׃ (rê·qām)
Adverb
Strong's 7387: Emptily, ineffectually, undeservedly


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OT History: 2 Samuel 1:22 From the blood of the slain (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam)
2 Samuel 1:21
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