Topical Bible: The Lot: Jonathan's

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Introduction

The casting of lots is a practice frequently mentioned in the Bible, often used to discern God's will in decision-making processes. One notable instance involving the casting of lots is found in the account of Jonathan, the son of King Saul. This event is recorded in the First Book of Samuel and provides insight into the use of lots in ancient Israel, as well as the character and faith of Jonathan.

Biblical Account

The account of Jonathan and the casting of lots is found in 1 Samuel 14. During a battle against the Philistines, Jonathan, unbeknownst to his father Saul, initiates a bold attack on the enemy, leading to a significant victory for Israel. However, Saul, in his zeal, had previously made a rash oath, cursing anyone who ate food before evening, hoping to ensure victory over the Philistines.

As the day progressed, the Israelite soldiers became weary and faint due to the lack of food. Jonathan, unaware of his father's oath, tasted a bit of honey, which revitalized him. When informed of the oath, Jonathan criticized his father's decision, saying, "My father has brought trouble to the land. See how my eyes have brightened because I tasted a little of this honey" (1 Samuel 14:29).

The Casting of Lots

After the victory, Saul sought to inquire of God whether to continue pursuing the Philistines, but God did not answer him that day. Saul, suspecting sin in the camp, decided to cast lots to identify the transgressor. He declared, "Come here, all you leaders of the people, and let us determine how this sin has occurred today" (1 Samuel 14:38).

The lot was cast between Saul and Jonathan and the people, and the lot fell on Jonathan. Saul then confronted Jonathan, who confessed to tasting the honey. Saul, bound by his oath, declared that Jonathan must die. However, the people intervened, saying, "Must Jonathan die, who has brought about this great deliverance in Israel? Never! As surely as the LORD lives, not a hair of his head will fall to the ground, for he worked with God this day" (1 Samuel 14:45). Thus, the people rescued Jonathan, and he was spared.

Theological Implications

The casting of lots in this narrative highlights several theological themes. Firstly, it underscores the sovereignty of God in guiding decisions through seemingly random means. The lot falling on Jonathan, despite his ignorance of the oath, suggests divine involvement in revealing hidden matters.

Secondly, the account illustrates the consequences of rash vows and the importance of wisdom in leadership. Saul's impulsive oath endangered his own son and nearly cost Israel a great leader. Jonathan's actions, in contrast, demonstrate faith and courage, as he trusted in God's deliverance rather than human decrees.

Lastly, the intervention of the people to save Jonathan reflects the communal aspect of justice and mercy in Israelite society. It shows that while the king had authority, the collective voice of the people could appeal to a higher sense of justice, recognizing Jonathan's role in God's deliverance.

Conclusion

The account of Jonathan and the casting of lots serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of leadership, the importance of seeking God's will, and the role of community in upholding justice. Through this narrative, the Bible provides valuable lessons on faith, discernment, and the consequences of human actions in the light of divine providence.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 14:41,42
Therefore Saul said to the LORD God of Israel, Give a perfect lot. And Saul and Jonathan were taken: but the people escaped.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Jonathan's Brave Deed
... Israel, show it by the lot marked Urim; but if the sin lies with thy people Israel,
show it by the lot marked Thummim." Then the lot fell on Jonathan and Saul ...
//christianbookshelf.org/sherman/the childrens bible/jonathans brave deed.htm

The Children's Bible
... THE STORY OF THE TOWER OF BABEL. LOT'S ESCAPE FROM A WICKED CITY. GOD'S CARE FOR
THE BOY ISHMAEL. ... HOW SAMUEL FOUND A LEADER. JONATHAN'S BRAVE DEED. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/sherman/the childrens bible/

After the Whole People had Been Freed from all Distress...
... by lot; and the lot falleth upon Saul, and Jonathan; "And Saul said, Cast ye the
lot between me and Jonathan; and they cast the lot, and Jonathan was taken. ...
/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/homily xiv after the whole.htm

Gratitude for Deliverance from the Grave
... No honey was sweeter than that which dropped from the end of Jonathan's rod; but
that ... he hath not given me over unto death" which would have been my lot if he ...
/.../spurgeons sermons volume 38 1892/gratitude for deliverance from the.htm

The Water of Life;
... Wherefore, sinner, here is laid a necessity upon thee, one of the two must be thy
lot; either thou must accept of God's grace, and be content to be saved ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the water of life.htm

Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ;
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/come and welcome to jesus.htm