Saul and Jonathan's Position
Jump to: SubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
Saul, the first king of Israel, and his son Jonathan hold significant positions in the biblical narrative, particularly in the books of 1 Samuel. Their roles and actions provide insight into the early monarchy of Israel and the complex dynamics of leadership, faith, and familial relationships.

Saul's Position:

Saul, son of Kish from the tribe of Benjamin, was anointed as the first king of Israel by the prophet Samuel. His rise to kingship is detailed in 1 Samuel 9-10, where he is described as a tall and handsome young man, chosen by God to lead His people. Saul's initial humility and reluctance to assume the throne (1 Samuel 10:21-22) are overshadowed by his subsequent disobedience to God's commands, which ultimately leads to his rejection as king.

Saul's reign is marked by military successes and failures, as well as his complex relationship with David, the future king. His initial success in uniting the tribes of Israel and defeating their enemies, such as the Ammonites (1 Samuel 11), is marred by his failure to fully obey God's instructions during the battle against the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15:9-11). This disobedience results in God's declaration through Samuel: "Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king" (1 Samuel 15:23).

Saul's position becomes increasingly unstable as he grapples with jealousy and paranoia, particularly concerning David, whom he perceives as a threat to his throne. Despite his attempts to kill David, Saul's position is further weakened by his inability to secure God's favor and guidance, leading to his tragic end on Mount Gilboa (1 Samuel 31:4).

Jonathan's Position:

Jonathan, Saul's eldest son, is portrayed as a noble and courageous figure, known for his deep friendship with David and his loyalty to God's purposes. His position as the heir apparent to the throne does not deter him from recognizing God's anointing on David. Jonathan's faith and bravery are evident in his daring attack on the Philistine garrison at Michmash, where he declares, "Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few" (1 Samuel 14:6).

Jonathan's covenant with David (1 Samuel 18:3-4) exemplifies his selflessness and commitment to God's will, even at the cost of his own royal prospects. Despite his father's animosity towards David, Jonathan remains steadfast in his support, warning David of Saul's intentions and affirming their bond before the LORD (1 Samuel 20:42).

Jonathan's position is further complicated by his loyalty to his father, Saul. He attempts to mediate between Saul and David, advocating for David's innocence and seeking to protect him from Saul's wrath (1 Samuel 19:4-5). Jonathan's dual allegiance to his father and David highlights the tension between familial duty and divine purpose.

Ultimately, Jonathan's life is cut short alongside his father in the battle against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa (1 Samuel 31:2). His death marks the end of Saul's dynasty and paves the way for David's ascension to the throne, fulfilling God's plan for Israel's leadership. Jonathan's legacy endures through his unwavering faith, loyalty, and the profound impact of his friendship with David.
Subtopics

Nepotism of Saul

Regicide of King Saul

Saul

Saul of Tarsus

Saul: Also Called Shaul: King of Edom

Saul: Hears Doeg Against Ahimelech

Saul: King of Israel is Defeated, and is Killed With some of his Sons

Saul: King of Israel is Reproved by Samuel for Usurping the Priestly Functions

Saul: King of Israel: A Benjamite, Son of Kish

Saul: King of Israel: David is Again Betrayed To, by the Ziphites

Saul: King of Israel: Dedicates the Spoils of War

Saul: King of Israel: Defeats the Philistines

Saul: King of Israel: Defeats the Philistines After Goliath is Killed by David

Saul: King of Israel: His Death is a Judgment on Account of his Sins

Saul: King of Israel: His Jealousy of David

Saul: King of Israel: His Kingdom Invaded by Philistines

Saul: King of Israel: His Life Spared by David

Saul: King of Israel: His Personal Appearance

Saul: King of Israel: Kills the Gibeonites; Crime Avenged by the Death of Seven of his Sons

Saul: King of Israel: Lives at Gibeah of Saul

Saul: King of Israel: Made King of Israel

Saul: King of Israel: Pursues David to En-Gedi

Saul: King of Israel: Samuel Rebukes Him for Disobedience by not Exterminating the Amalekites

Saul: King of Israel: Saul's Contrition for his Bad Faith

Saul: King of Israel: Sons of

Saul: King of Israel: Strikes the Amalekites

Saul: King of Israel: Their Bodies Exposed in Beth-Shan

Saul: King of Israel: Tries to Kill David

Saul: Sends Messengers to Jesse, Asking That David be Sent to Him As a Musician and an Armor-Bearer

Trophies: Saul's

Related Terms

Troph'imus (3 Occurrences)

Tychicus (5 Occurrences)

Ephesus (20 Occurrences)

Sick (117 Occurrences)

Gaius (5 Occurrences)

Ga'ius (5 Occurrences)

Wall (227 Occurrences)

Infirm (25 Occurrences)

Tych'icus (5 Occurrences)

Timotheus (24 Occurrences)

Thessalo'nians (3 Occurrences)

Eras'tus (3 Occurrences)

Erastus (3 Occurrences)

Ephesian (4 Occurrences)

Middle (169 Occurrences)

Miletus (3 Occurrences)

Miletum (1 Occurrence)

Mile'tus (3 Occurrences)

Partition (4 Occurrences)

Previously (44 Occurrences)

Pyrrhus (1 Occurrence)

Berean (1 Occurrence)

Berea (4 Occurrences)

Beroe'a (3 Occurrences)

Beroean (1 Occurrence)

Asiatics (1 Occurrence)

Accompanying (5 Occurrences)

Aristarchus (6 Occurrences)

Area (66 Occurrences)

Aristar'chus (6 Occurrences)

Accompanied (43 Occurrences)

Asians (1 Occurrence)

Assumed (3 Occurrences)

Secun'dus (1 Occurrence)

Sop'ater (1 Occurrence)

Stopping (22 Occurrences)

Supposing (16 Occurrences)

Secundus (1 Occurrence)

Sopater (1 Occurrence)

Supposed (19 Occurrences)

Beroea (4 Occurrences)

Greeks (22 Occurrences)

Idea (64 Occurrences)

Grecians (4 Occurrences)

Abode (112 Occurrences)

Sickness (40 Occurrences)

Derbe (4 Occurrences)

Stayed (169 Occurrences)

Behind (188 Occurrences)

Province (66 Occurrences)

Troops (92 Occurrences)

Corinth (13 Occurrences)

Ill (137 Occurrences)

Apostles (79 Occurrences)

Thessalonica (8 Occurrences)

Acts (271 Occurrences)

Timothy (28 Occurrences)

Thessalonians (6 Occurrences)

Asia (22 Occurrences)

Paul (207 Occurrences)

Temple (614 Occurrences)

Saul and Jonathan's Death
Top of Page
Top of Page