1 Samuel 14:4 Now there were cliffs on both sides of the pass that Jonathan intended to cross to reach the Philistine outpost. One was named Bozez and the other Seneh.

◄ 1 Samuel 14:4 ►

New International Version
On each side of the pass that Jonathan intended to cross to reach the Philistine outpost was a cliff; one was called Bozez and the other Seneh.

New Living Translation
To reach the Philistine outpost, Jonathan had to go down between two rocky cliffs that were called Bozez and Seneh.

English Standard Version
Within the passes, by which Jonathan sought to go over to the Philistine garrison, there was a rocky crag on the one side and a rocky crag on the other side. The name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

Berean Standard Bible
Now there were cliffs on both sides of the pass that Jonathan intended to cross to reach the Philistine outpost. One was named Bozez and the other Seneh.

King James Bible
And between the passages, by which Jonathan sought to go over unto the Philistines' garrison, there was a sharp rock on the one side, and a sharp rock on the other side: and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

New King James Version
Between the passes, by which Jonathan sought to go over to the Philistines’ garrison, there was a sharp rock on one side and a sharp rock on the other side. And the name of one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

New American Standard Bible
Now between the gorges by which Jonathan sought to cross over to the Philistines’ garrison there was a rocky crag on the one side, and a rocky crag on the other side; and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other, Seneh.

NASB 1995
Between the passes by which Jonathan sought to cross over to the Philistines’ garrison, there was a sharp crag on the one side and a sharp crag on the other side, and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

NASB 1977
And between the passes by which Jonathan sought to cross over to the Philistines’ garrison, there was a sharp crag on the one side, and a sharp crag on the other side, and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

Legacy Standard Bible
Now between the passes by which Jonathan sought to cross over to the Philistines’ garrison, there was a sharp crag on the one side and a sharp crag on the other side, and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

Amplified Bible
Between the passes by which Jonathan sought to cross over to get to the Philistine garrison, there was a rocky crag on the one side and a rocky crag on the other side; one [crag] was named Bozez, and the other, Seneh.

Christian Standard Bible
There were sharp columns of rock on both sides of the pass that Jonathan intended to cross to reach the Philistine garrison. One was named Bozez and the other Seneh;

Holman Christian Standard Bible
There were sharp columns of rock on both sides of the pass that Jonathan intended to cross to reach the Philistine garrison. One was named Bozez and the other Seneh;

American Standard Version
And between the passes, by which Jonathan sought to go over unto the Philistines' garrison, there was a rocky crag on the one side, and a rocky crag on the other side: and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

English Revised Version
And between the passes, by which Jonathan sought to go over unto the Philistines' garrison, there was a rocky crag on the one side, and a rocky crag on the other side: and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
There was a cliff on each side of the mountain pass where Jonathan searched for a way to cross over to attack the Philistine military post. The name of one [cliff] was Bozez, and the name of the other was Seneh.

Good News Translation
In Michmash Pass, which Jonathan had to go through to get over to the Philistine camp, there were two large jagged rocks, one on each side of the pass: one was called Bozez and the other Seneh.

International Standard Version
Now in the pass through which Jonathan planned to get across to the Philistine garrison, there was a sharp crag on one side and a sharp crag on the other side. The name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other was Seneh.

Majority Standard Bible
Now there were cliffs on both sides of the pass that Jonathan intended to cross to reach the Philistine outpost. One was named Bozez and the other Seneh.

NET Bible
Now there was a steep cliff on each side of the pass through which Jonathan intended to go to reach the Philistine garrison. One cliff was named Bozez, the other Seneh.

New Heart English Bible
Now on each side of the pass through which Jonathan intended to cross to the Philistine garrison there was a steep cliff on one side and a steep cliff on the other side. And the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

Webster's Bible Translation
And between the passages by which Jonathan sought to go over to the garrison of the Philistines, there was a sharp rock on the one side, and a sharp rock on the other side: and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

World English Bible
Between the passes, by which Jonathan sought to go over to the Philistines’ garrison, there was a rocky crag on the one side and a rocky crag on the other side; and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
And between the passages where Jonathan sought to pass over to the station of the Philistines [is] the edge of a rock on one side, and the edge of a rock on the other side, and the name of one is Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

Young's Literal Translation
And between the passages where Jonathan sought to pass over unto the station of the Philistines is the edge of a rock on the one side, and the edge of a rock on the other side, and the name of the one is Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

Smith's Literal Translation
And between the passages where Jonathan sought to pass through upon the garrison of the rovers, and the tooth of a rock from beyond this, and the tooth of a rock from beyond this; and the name of the one Bozez, and the name of the one Seneh.

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
Now there were between the ascents, by which Jonathan sought to go over to the garrison of the Philistines, rocks standing up on both sides, and steep cliffs like teeth on the one side, and on the other, the name of the one was Boses, and the name of the other was Sene:

Catholic Public Domain Version
Now there were, between the ascents along which Jonathan strove to cross to the garrison of the Philistines, rocks projecting from both sides, and, in the manner of teeth, boulders breaking out from one side and the other. The name of one was Shining, and the name of the other was Thorny.

New American Bible
Flanking the ravine through which Jonathan intended to cross to the Philistine outpost were rocky crags on each side, one named Bozez and the other Seneh.

New Revised Standard Version
In the pass, by which Jonathan tried to go over to the Philistine garrison, there was a rocky crag on one side and a rocky crag on the other; the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
And as he sought to cross over to the Philistine garrison, behold, there was a steep rock on one side and a steep rock on the other side; and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Siaa.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And he sought to go over the garrison of the Philistines, and a crag of rock from one side, from here and another crag of rock from there, the name of one, Betsuts, and the name of the other, Sia

OT Translations

JPS Tanakh 1917
And between the passes, by which Jonathan sought to go over unto the Philistines' garrison, there was a rocky crag on the one side, and a rocky crag on the other side; and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And in the midst of the passage whereby Jonathan sought to pass over to the encampment of the Philistines, there was both a sharp rock on this side, and a sharp rock on the other side: the name of the one was Bases, and the name of the other Senna.

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

Jonathan's Victory over the Philistines
…3including Ahijah, who was wearing an ephod. He was the son of Ichabod’s brother Ahitub son of Phinehas, the son of Eli the priest of the LORD in Shiloh. But the troops did not know that Jonathan had left. 4Now there were cliffs on both sides of the pass that Jonathan intended to cross to reach the Philistine outpost. One was named Bozez and the other Seneh. 5One cliff stood to the north toward Michmash, and the other to the south toward Geba.…

Berean Standard Bible · Download

Cross References

Judges 7:1-25
Early in the morning Jerubbaal (that is, Gideon) and all the men with him camped beside the spring of Harod. And the camp of Midian was north of them in the valley near the hill of Moreh. / Then the LORD said to Gideon, “You have too many men for Me to deliver Midian into their hands, lest Israel glorify themselves over Me, saying, ‘My own hand has saved me.’ / Now, therefore, proclaim in the hearing of the men: ‘Whoever is fearful and trembling may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.’” So twenty-two thousand of them turned back, but ten thousand remained. ...

2 Samuel 5:17-25
When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, they all went in search of him; but David learned of this and went down to the stronghold. / Now the Philistines had come and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. / So David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” “Go up,” replied the LORD, “for I will surely deliver the Philistines into your hand.” ...

1 Samuel 17:40-50
And David took his staff in his hand, selected five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in the pouch of his shepherd’s bag. And with his sling in hand, he approached the Philistine. / Now the Philistine came closer and closer to David, with his shield-bearer before him. / When the Philistine looked and saw David, he despised him because he was just a boy, ruddy and handsome. ...

2 Kings 3:9-20
So the king of Israel, the king of Judah, and the king of Edom set out, and after they had traveled a roundabout route for seven days, they had no water for their army or for their animals. / “Alas,” said the king of Israel, “for the LORD has summoned these three kings to deliver them into the hand of Moab!” / But Jehoshaphat asked, “Is there no prophet of the LORD here? Let us inquire of the LORD through him.” And one of the servants of the king of Israel answered, “Elisha son of Shaphat is here. He used to pour water on the hands of Elijah.” ...

Joshua 6:1-20
Now Jericho was tightly shut up because of the Israelites. No one went out and no one came in. / And the LORD said to Joshua, “Behold, I have delivered Jericho into your hand, along with its king and its mighty men of valor. / March around the city with all the men of war, circling the city one time. Do this for six days. ...

Judges 3:31
After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath. And he too saved Israel, striking down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad.

1 Samuel 13:23
And a garrison of the Philistines had gone out to the pass at Michmash.

2 Chronicles 20:1-30
After this, the Moabites and Ammonites, together with some of the Meunites, came to make war against Jehoshaphat. / Then some men came and told Jehoshaphat, “A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from beyond the Sea; they are already in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, En-gedi). / Jehoshaphat was alarmed and set his face to seek the LORD. And he proclaimed a fast throughout Judah. ...

Isaiah 41:10-13
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. / Behold, all who rage against you will be ashamed and disgraced; those who contend with you will be reduced to nothing and will perish. / You will seek them but will not find them. Those who wage war against you will come to nothing. ...

Psalm 18:29
For in You I can charge an army, and with my God I can scale a wall.

Psalm 144:1
Of David. Blessed be the LORD, my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.

Matthew 17:20
“Because you have so little faith,” He answered. “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

Mark 11:23
“Truly I tell you that if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and has no doubt in his heart but believes that it will happen, it will be done for him.

Luke 1:37
For no word from God will ever fail.”

Romans 8:31
What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Treasury of Scripture

And between the passages, by which Jonathan sought to go over to the Philistines' garrison, there was a sharp rock on the one side, and a sharp rock on the other side: and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

the passages

1 Samuel 13:23
And the garrison of the Philistines went out to the passage of Michmash.

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1 Samuel 14

1. Jonathan goes and miraculously smites the Philistine's garrison
15. A divine terror makes them beat themselves
17. Saul, not staying the priest's answer, sets on them
21. The captivated Hebrews, and the hidden Israelites, join against them.
24. Saul's unadvised adjuration hinders the victory
31. He restrains the people from eating blood
35. He builds an altar
37. Jonathan, taken by lot, is save by the people
47. Saul's victories, strength, and family

Berean Study Bible

Now there were cliffs
The Hebrew word for "cliffs" is "סֶלַע" (sela), which often denotes a rock or crag. In the biblical context, cliffs symbolize obstacles or challenges that require faith and courage to overcome. The presence of cliffs on both sides of the pass underscores the daunting nature of Jonathan's mission, highlighting his bravery and trust in God. This imagery can inspire believers to face their own spiritual and life challenges with similar faith.

on both sides of the pass
The phrase "on both sides" emphasizes the narrowness and danger of the path Jonathan chose. The "pass" (Hebrew: "מַעֲבָר" - ma'abar) signifies a crossing or a strategic point. Historically, such passes were crucial in military tactics, often determining the outcome of battles. Spiritually, this can be seen as a metaphor for the narrow path of righteousness that believers are called to walk, requiring discernment and reliance on God's guidance.

that Jonathan intended to cross
Jonathan, the son of King Saul, is portrayed as a man of action and faith. The Hebrew root for "intended" (עָבַר - avar) implies determination and purpose. Jonathan's intention to cross the pass reflects his proactive faith and willingness to take risks for God's purposes. This serves as an encouragement for believers to act decisively in faith, trusting in God's provision and protection.

to reach the Philistine outpost
The Philistines were a constant threat to Israel during this period, representing opposition and spiritual warfare. The "outpost" (Hebrew: "נָצִיב" - natsiv) was a military garrison, a place of strength for the enemy. Jonathan's goal to reach the outpost signifies a direct confrontation with the forces opposing God's people. This can inspire Christians to confront spiritual strongholds in their lives with the confidence that God fights for them.

one was called Bozez
The name "Bozez" (בּוֹצֵץ) means "shining" or "glittering," possibly referring to the cliff's appearance in the sunlight. This could symbolize the deceptive allure of worldly challenges that seem daunting but can be overcome with divine help. It reminds believers that what appears formidable in the natural realm can be conquered through spiritual insight and God's strength.

and the other Seneh
"Seneh" (סֶנֶה) means "thorny" or "thorn bush," suggesting a place of difficulty and potential harm. This name evokes the trials and tribulations that believers may face on their journey of faith. The presence of both Bozez and Seneh highlights the dual nature of challenges—both alluring and painful—that require reliance on God to navigate successfully.

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(4) Bozez . . . Seneh.--These names are of extreme antiquity. Their signification is disputed. Possibly Bozez signifies "shining," and Seneh "the accacia." These rocks have been identified by modern travellers.

Pulpit Commentary

Verse 4. - Between the passages. I.e. the passes. A sharp rock. Literally, "a tooth of rock." Conder ('Tent Work,' 2:112) says, "The site of the Philistine camp at Michmash, which Jonathan and his armour bearer attacked, is very minutely described by Josephus. It was, he says, a precipice with three tops, ending in a long, sharp tongue, and protected by surrounding cliffs. Exactly such a natural fortress exists immediately east of the village of Michmash, and is still called 'the fort' by the peasantry. It is a ridge rising in three rounded knolls above a perpendicular crag, ending in a narrow tongue to the east, with cliffs below, and having an open valley behind it, and a saddle towards the west, on which Michmash itself is situate. Opposite this fortress, on the south, there is a crag of equal height, and seemingly impassable. Thus the description of the Old Testament is fully borne out - 'a sharp rock on one side, and a sharp rock on the other.' The southern cliff was called Seneh, or 'the acacia,' and the same name still applies to the modern valley, due to the acacia trees which dot its course. The northern cliff was called Bozez, or 'shining,' and the true explanation of the name only presents itself on the spot." Conder then describes how, "treading perhaps almost in the steps of Jonathan, after arriving on the brink of the chasm, or defile of Michmash, they were able to descend Seneh, even with horses and mules. "I noticed," he says, "that the dip of the strata down eastward gave hopes that by one of the long ledges we might be able to slide, as it were, towards the bottom. It is not likely that horses had ever before been led along this ledge, or will perhaps ever again cross the pathless chasm, but it was just possible, and by jumping them down one or two steps some three feet high, we succeeded in making the passage.... Though we got down Seneh, we did not attempt to climb up Bozez .... Horses could scarcely find a footing anywhere on the sides of the northern precipice; but judging from the descent, it seems possible that Jonathan, with immense labour, could have 'climbed up upon his hands and upon his feet, and his armour bearer after him' (ver. 13). That a man exhausted by such an effort could have fought successfully on arriving at the top can only be accounted for on the supposition of a sudden panic among the Philistines, when they found the enemy actually within their apparently impregnable fortress."

Parallel Commentaries ...

Hebrew

Now there were cliffs
שֵׁן־ (šên-)
Noun - common singular construct
Strong's 8127: A tooth, ivory, a cliff

on both sides
מֵהָעֵ֙בֶר֙ (mê·hā·‘ê·ḇer)
Preposition-m, Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5676: A region across, on the opposite side

of the pass
הַֽמַּעְבְּר֗וֹת (ham·ma‘·bə·rō·wṯ)
Article | Noun - feminine plural construct
Strong's 4569: A crossing-place, a transit, overwhelming

that
אֲשֶׁ֨ר (’ă·šer)
Pronoun - relative
Strong's 834: Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that

Jonathan
יֽוֹנָתָן֙ (yō·w·nā·ṯān)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3129: Jonathan

intended
בִּקֵּ֤שׁ (biq·qêš)
Verb - Piel - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1245: To search out, to strive after

to cross
לַֽעֲבֹר֙ (la·‘ă·ḇōr)
Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 5674: To pass over, through, or by, pass on

to reach
עַל־ (‘al-)
Preposition
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

the Philistine
פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים (pə·liš·tîm)
Noun - proper - masculine plural
Strong's 6430: Philistines -- inhabitants of Philistia

outpost.
מַצַּ֣ב (maṣ·ṣaḇ)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4673: A fixed spot, an office, a military post

One
הָֽאֶחָד֙ (hā·’e·ḥāḏ)
Article | Number - masculine singular
Strong's 259: United, one, first

was named
וְשֵׁ֤ם (wə·šêm)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 8034: A name

Bozez
בּוֹצֵ֔ץ (bō·w·ṣêṣ)
Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 949: Bozez -- a rock near Michmash

and the other
הָאֶחָ֖ד (hā·’e·ḥāḏ)
Article | Number - masculine singular
Strong's 259: United, one, first

Seneh.
סֶֽנֶּה׃ (sen·neh)
Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 5573: Seneh -- a cliff in Israel

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OT History: 1 Samuel 14:4 Between the passes by which Jonathan sought (1Sa iSam 1 Sam i sa)