1 Samuel 20:41

When the young man had gone, David got up from the south side of the stone, fell facedown, and bowed three times. Then he and Jonathan kissed each other and wept together--though David wept more.

Study Bible

When the young man had gone
This refers to the servant boy who was sent by Jonathan to retrieve the arrows he had shot as a signal to David. The departure of the young man ensured privacy for the emotional meeting between David and Jonathan. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, such discretion was necessary to protect both David and Jonathan from Saul's wrath.

David got up from the south side of the stone
The stone, likely a large rock or landmark, served as a prearranged meeting point. The south side indicates David's position of hiding, emphasizing his fugitive status. Geographically, this setting underscores the wilderness areas where David often sought refuge from Saul.

fell facedown, and bowed three times
David's actions demonstrate deep respect and humility towards Jonathan, acknowledging Jonathan's royal status and their covenantal friendship. Bowing three times was a gesture of profound reverence, often seen in ancient Near Eastern cultures as a sign of loyalty and submission.

Then he and Jonathan kissed each other
The kiss was a customary greeting and farewell in the ancient Near East, symbolizing friendship and brotherly love. This act reflects the deep bond and covenant between David and Jonathan, transcending political alliances and familial ties.

and wept together
Their weeping signifies the emotional intensity of their friendship and the sorrow of impending separation. It also reflects the danger and uncertainty both faced due to Saul's hostility. This moment highlights the human element of biblical narratives, showing vulnerability and genuine affection.

though David wept more
David's greater weeping may indicate his awareness of the greater danger he faced as a fugitive. It also underscores his sense of loss, not only of Jonathan's companionship but also of his place at the royal court. This emotional depth foreshadows David's future trials and his reliance on God's providence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, and a man after God's own heart. At this point, he is fleeing from King Saul, who seeks his life.

2. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. He is known for his loyalty and covenant friendship with David, even at the cost of his own future as king.

3. The Stone Ezel
A landmark where David and Jonathan meet. It serves as a secret meeting place for their farewell, symbolizing a point of separation and covenant.

4. The Servant
A young boy who assists Jonathan in the ruse to communicate with David. His presence is part of the plan to ensure David's safety.

5. The Weeping
A significant emotional event where both David and Jonathan express their deep sorrow and affection, highlighting the depth of their friendship and the pain of their separation.

Teaching Points

The Value of Covenant Friendships
True friendships are marked by loyalty, sacrifice, and mutual support. Jonathan and David's relationship exemplifies a covenant friendship that is willing to endure hardship and separation.

Emotional Expression in Godly Relationships
The Bible does not shy away from showing deep emotions. David and Jonathan's weeping is a reminder that expressing emotions is a healthy and godly response to life's challenges.

The Cost of Loyalty
Jonathan's loyalty to David, despite his father Saul's opposition, teaches us about the cost of standing by our commitments and the importance of prioritizing God's will over personal gain.

Trusting God in Times of Separation
David and Jonathan's farewell reminds us to trust God during times of separation and uncertainty, knowing that He is sovereign over our relationships and futures.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the friendship between David and Jonathan challenge our understanding of loyalty and sacrifice in our own relationships?

2. In what ways can we cultivate covenant friendships that reflect the biblical model seen in David and Jonathan's relationship?

3. How can we apply the emotional honesty seen in 1 Samuel 20:41 to our own relationships, especially in times of difficulty or separation?

4. What are some modern-day examples of relationships where loyalty to God’s will might come at a personal cost, similar to Jonathan’s situation?

5. How can the account of David and Jonathan encourage us to trust God during times of separation from loved ones, and what other biblical examples support this trust?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 33:3-4
The reunion of Jacob and Esau, where they embrace and weep, showing reconciliation and deep emotion.

Acts 20:37
Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian elders, where they weep and embrace, demonstrating the bonds of Christian fellowship and love.

Proverbs 18:24
The verse speaks of a friend who sticks closer than a brother, reflecting the deep bond between David and Jonathan.