Topical Encyclopedia The episode involving the arrow shot by Jonathan as a sign to David is a poignant narrative found in the First Book of Samuel, specifically in 1 Samuel 20. This event is a significant moment in the friendship between Jonathan, the son of King Saul, and David, the future king of Israel. It highlights themes of loyalty, divine providence, and the complexities of human relationships under the sovereignty of God.Context and Background The backdrop of this event is the growing tension between Saul and David. Saul, the first king of Israel, becomes increasingly envious and fearful of David, who has gained favor among the people and is anointed by God to be the next king. Despite Saul's animosity, Jonathan, Saul's son, forms a deep and covenantal friendship with David. Jonathan recognizes God's hand upon David and seeks to protect him from Saul's wrath. The Covenant Between Jonathan and David Before the incident with the arrow, Jonathan and David make a covenant, affirming their mutual loyalty and love. In 1 Samuel 20:16-17 , it is recorded: "So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, 'May the LORD hold David’s enemies accountable.' And Jonathan had David reaffirm his vow out of love for him, for Jonathan loved David as he loved himself." This covenant underscores the spiritual and personal bond between the two men, transcending familial and political pressures. The Plan and the Sign Aware of Saul's intentions to harm David, Jonathan devises a plan to communicate Saul's disposition to David without arousing suspicion. Jonathan tells David to hide in the field during the New Moon festival. After gauging Saul's mood, Jonathan will shoot arrows in the field as a prearranged signal. In 1 Samuel 20:20-22 , Jonathan explains: "I will shoot three arrows to the side of it, as if I were aiming at a target. Then I will send a boy and say, ‘Go, find the arrows.’ Now, if I expressly say to him, ‘Look, the arrows are on this side of you; bring them here,’ then come, because as surely as the LORD lives, you are safe, and there is no danger. But if I say to the young man, ‘Look, the arrows are beyond you,’ then you must go, for the LORD has sent you away." The Execution of the Plan The plan unfolds as Jonathan had arranged. During the festival, Saul's anger flares when he notices David's absence, confirming his intent to kill David. Jonathan, heartbroken but resolute, goes to the field and shoots the arrows. He instructs the boy, "Is not the arrow beyond you?" (1 Samuel 20:37), signaling to David that he must flee for his life. The Farewell After the boy retrieves the arrows and departs, Jonathan and David have a final, emotional meeting. They reaffirm their covenant, acknowledging the LORD's witness between them and their descendants forever. In 1 Samuel 20:42 , Jonathan says to David, "Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD, saying, 'The LORD is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.'" Significance The arrow shot by Jonathan serves as a symbol of divine guidance and protection. It marks a turning point in David's life, propelling him into a period of exile and preparation for kingship. The narrative exemplifies the virtues of faithfulness, courage, and the sacrificial nature of true friendship. Jonathan's actions reflect a profound trust in God's plan, even when it means relinquishing his own claim to the throne for the sake of God's anointed. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 20:20-42And I will shoot three arrows on the side thereof, as though I shot at a mark. Nave's Topical Index Library Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers. Resources What does the Bible say about luck? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is emblematic parallelism in Hebrew poetry? | GotQuestions.org What are the cosmological arguments for the existence of God? | GotQuestions.org Arrow: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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