Topical Bible: Oath: Saul Swears to Jonathan

◄ Oath: Saul Swears to Jonathan ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, oaths hold significant weight as solemn promises or declarations, often invoking God as a witness to the truth of one's words or the sincerity of one's intentions. The account of Saul swearing an oath to his son Jonathan is a poignant example of the use of oaths in the context of familial and political dynamics within the monarchy of Israel.

The account unfolds in 1 Samuel 19, where King Saul's animosity towards David, who had found favor in the eyes of both God and the people, reaches a critical point. Saul's jealousy and fear of David's rising popularity and potential threat to his throne lead him to contemplate David's death. However, Jonathan, Saul's son, and David's close friend, intervenes to protect David.

In 1 Samuel 19:1-6 , the narrative describes how Jonathan speaks well of David to his father, Saul, attempting to dissuade him from his murderous intentions. Jonathan appeals to Saul's sense of justice and the loyalty David has shown to the king, highlighting David's victory over Goliath and his service to Saul. Moved by Jonathan's words, Saul makes a solemn oath: "As surely as the LORD lives, David will not be put to death" (1 Samuel 19:6).

This oath is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it underscores the gravity of invoking the LORD's name in making a promise, reflecting the deep-seated belief in the divine witness to human affairs. Saul's oath is not merely a personal promise but a declaration made before God, which carries an expectation of divine accountability.

Secondly, the oath reveals the complex relationship between Saul and Jonathan. Despite Saul's growing instability and paranoia, Jonathan remains a voice of reason and loyalty, both to his father and to David. Saul's willingness to swear an oath at Jonathan's behest indicates a momentary return to rationality and a recognition of Jonathan's wisdom and integrity.

However, the narrative also foreshadows the tragic unraveling of Saul's character. Despite his oath, Saul's resolve quickly falters, and his jealousy resurfaces, leading to further attempts on David's life. This inconsistency highlights the tension between Saul's public declarations and his private intentions, a theme that runs throughout his reign.

In the broader biblical context, Saul's oath to Jonathan serves as a reminder of the sacredness of oaths and the expectation of faithfulness to one's word, especially when made in the name of the LORD. It also illustrates the challenges of leadership and the moral complexities faced by those in positions of power, as well as the enduring bond of friendship and loyalty exemplified by Jonathan and David.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 19:6
And Saul listened to the voice of Jonathan: and Saul swore, As the LORD lives, he shall not be slain.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

After the Whole People had Been Freed from all Distress...
... and especially where any one swears, not concerning ... but an unlimited multitude, which
Saul then inconsiderately ... one at least might transgress the oath; or that ...
/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/homily xiv after the whole.htm