What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 20:18?

Then Jonathan said to David

Jonathan, heir to Saul’s throne, chooses covenant loyalty over royal privilege (1 Samuel 18:3–4). Here he:

• Acts as a faithful friend, speaking directly to David despite the danger (Proverbs 17:17).

• Confirms his commitment to protect David from Saul’s wrath (1 Samuel 20:13).

Jonathan’s words flow from genuine love and a recognition of God’s anointing on David (1 Samuel 23:17).

---

Tomorrow is the New Moon

The New Moon marked the first day of the month and was celebrated with sacrifices and a communal meal (Numbers 10:10; 28:11–14). In Saul’s court:

• Attendance was expected of leading warriors and officials (1 Samuel 20:24).

• The feast provided regular opportunity for the king to gauge loyalty, making David’s presence—or absence—highly visible (2 Kings 4:23 shows its continuing importance generations later).

Jonathan is reminding David of this fixed appointment, highlighting the urgency of their plan (1 Samuel 20:5).

---

and you will be missed

David’s status as commander of a thousand (1 Samuel 18:13) and son-in-law to the king (1 Samuel 18:27) meant:

• His empty place would immediately draw Saul’s attention (1 Samuel 20:25).

• Jonathan anticipates Saul’s reaction, using David’s absence as a test of Saul’s intent (1 Samuel 20:7–9).

• The phrase underscores David’s valued role in Israel, pointing ahead to his future kingship (1 Samuel 25:30).

---

because your seat will be empty

An “empty seat” at the royal table signals more than absence; it hints at danger:

• Saul had already hurled a spear at David twice (1 Samuel 19:9–10), making the palace unsafe.

• Jonathan frames the emptiness as deliberate, a strategic move to expose Saul’s heart (1 Samuel 20:19–22).

• The visible vacancy also foreshadows how God will ultimately remove Saul and seat David on the throne (1 Samuel 16:13; 2 Samuel 2:4).

---

summary

Jonathan’s simple statement sketches a plan drenched in covenant love and divine purpose. The New Moon feast provides the perfect moment to reveal Saul’s murderous intent, and David’s conspicuous empty seat becomes the proof. Beneath the strategy lies God’s unfolding plan: honoring faithful friendship, protecting His anointed, and moving David one step closer to the throne He has promised.