David urgently requested
David's request is described as urgent, indicating the seriousness of the situation. This urgency reflects the danger David perceives from Saul, who has become increasingly hostile towards him. The urgency also underscores David's need to act quickly to ensure his safety. This moment is part of a larger narrative where David is often on the run from Saul, showcasing the trials he faces before becoming king.

my permission
Jonathan's role in granting permission suggests a level of authority or influence he holds, possibly due to his position as the king's son. It also indicates the trust and respect between Jonathan and David. This request for permission highlights the cultural norms of the time, where seeking approval from a superior or peer was a sign of respect and protocol.

to go to Bethlehem
Bethlehem, David's hometown, is significant both geographically and theologically. It is located in the territory of Judah and is later known as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, linking David's story to the messianic prophecy. David's return to Bethlehem can be seen as a strategic move to seek refuge among his kin. Bethlehem's mention here foreshadows its future importance in biblical history as the City of David and the birthplace of the Messiah.

Saul’s table is set for the New Moon feast (1 Samuel 20:24–27). David’s seat is empty—again. The king demands an explanation, and Jonathan steps in.

• Jonathan’s immediate response keeps David out of Saul’s direct line of fire, just as he did in 1 Samuel 19:4–6.

• His words reveal courageous loyalty; though Saul is his father, Jonathan protects the friend with whom he has a covenant (1 Samuel 18:3).

• By answering, Jonathan takes ownership of the situation, shielding David and giving Saul only the information that supports David’s safety.

Jonathan recounts David’s plea: “He urgently requested…” (1 Samuel 20:28).

• The urgency underscores the genuine danger David senses (1 Samuel 20:1).

• It also validates David’s absence; an urgent request implies a pressing, legitimate need, consistent with the trustworthiness David has shown since slaying Goliath (1 Samuel 17:32–37).

• The detail signals Jonathan’s honesty—he conveys David’s tone faithfully, echoing the transparency of their earlier conversation (1 Samuel 20:11–17).

Jonathan tells Saul that David sought “my permission.”

• As crown prince, Jonathan possesses sufficient authority to grant leave from the royal table, a prerogative Saul himself recognizes in 1 Samuel 20:27.

• The phrase shows the depth of David’s respect; although he is the anointed future king (1 Samuel 16:13), he still submits to Jonathan’s leadership (see also 1 Peter 2:17 on honoring rightful authority).

• Jonathan’s willingness to grant permission demonstrates covenant love overruling personal ambition (Philippians 2:3–4), fulfilling his promise to do “whatever you say” (1 Samuel 20:4).

Bethlehem, David’s hometown (1 Samuel 17:15), is where David claims he must attend a family sacrifice (1 Samuel 20:6).

• Family sacrifices were customary (Exodus 12:3; Deuteronomy 12:5–7), making the excuse plausible.

• Bethlehem is also the city of promise: birthplace of David and, prophetically, of the Messiah (Micah 5:2; Luke 2:4).

• The move cleverly places David away from Saul’s spear-throwing reach (1 Samuel 19:10), illustrating Proverbs 22:3: “The prudent see danger and hide.”

1 Samuel 20:28 captures Jonathan acting as a protective intermediary. By answering Saul, articulating David’s urgent request, invoking his own authority, and citing Bethlehem as the destination, Jonathan upholds his covenant with David while momentarily pacifying Saul. The verse showcases loyalty, wisdom, and God’s providential care for His anointed servant, ensuring David’s path toward the throne remains unbroken.

Parallel Commentaries ...