1 Samuel 20:29

saying, 'Please let me go, because our clan is holding a sacrifice in the city, and my brother has told me to be there. So now, if I have found favor in your eyes, please let me go and see my brothers.' That is why he did not come to the king's table."

Study Bible

saying, ‘Please let me go,
This phrase reflects the cultural practice of seeking permission from authority figures, which was common in ancient Israel. It shows respect and adherence to social hierarchies. In the context of 1 Samuel, David is speaking to Jonathan, Saul's son, and is seeking permission to leave the king's presence. This request is part of a larger plan to discern King Saul's intentions towards David.

because our clan is holding a sacrifice in the city,
Sacrifices were central to Israelite worship and community life, often involving entire families or clans. This particular sacrifice is likely a peace offering, which was a communal meal shared among family members. The mention of a clan gathering indicates the importance of family and tribal connections in Israelite society. The city referred to is Bethlehem, David's hometown, which is significant as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, connecting David's lineage to the Messianic prophecy.

and my brother has told me to be there.
This phrase highlights the familial obligations and expectations within the clan structure. David's mention of his brother underscores the importance of family ties and responsibilities. In the broader biblical narrative, David's relationship with his brothers is complex, as seen in earlier chapters where he is initially overlooked by his family. This request also serves as a plausible reason for David's absence from Saul's court, aligning with the cultural norms of the time.

So now, if I have found favor in your eyes,
Finding favor in someone's eyes is a recurring biblical theme, often indicating a request for grace or approval. This phrase is reminiscent of other biblical figures who sought favor, such as Esther before King Xerxes. It reflects humility and the seeking of goodwill, which is a key aspect of David's relationship with Jonathan. Their covenantal friendship is a significant element in the narrative, illustrating loyalty and divine providence.

please let me go and see my brothers.’
David's request to see his brothers emphasizes the importance of family unity and support. In the biblical context, brothers often symbolize close kinship and shared heritage. This phrase also subtly underscores David's precarious position at Saul's court, as he seeks refuge and reassurance among his own kin. The theme of brotherhood is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to be brothers and sisters in Christ.

That is why he has not come to the king’s table.”
The king's table symbolizes royal favor and acceptance, as well as the political and social dynamics of Saul's court. David's absence from the table is significant, as it foreshadows the growing tension and eventual conflict between Saul and David. In biblical typology, the king's table can be seen as a precursor to the Lord's Table in the New Testament, where believers are invited to partake in communion with Christ. David's absence highlights his alienation and the unfolding of God's plan for his future kingship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, currently fleeing from King Saul's wrath. He is the one who asks Jonathan to convey this message to Saul.

2. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. He acts as an intermediary between David and Saul.

3. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is increasingly hostile towards David due to jealousy and fear of losing his throne.

4. The Clan
Refers to David's family, who are supposedly holding a sacrifice in Bethlehem, David's hometown.

5. The City
Bethlehem, the place where David's family is said to be holding the sacrifice.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Friendships
Jonathan and David's relationship exemplifies loyalty and trust. In our lives, we should seek friendships that encourage us in our faith and support us in times of need.

Honoring Family Obligations
David's request to attend a family sacrifice highlights the importance of honoring family commitments. We should strive to balance our responsibilities to God, family, and others.

Wisdom in Communication
Jonathan's role as a mediator shows the importance of wise and careful communication, especially in tense situations. We should seek to be peacemakers and use our words to build bridges, not walls.

Courage in the Face of Adversity
David's situation reminds us that following God's path may lead to difficult circumstances. We are called to trust in God's plan and remain steadfast, even when facing challenges.

The Role of Sacrifice in Worship
The mention of a family sacrifice underscores the significance of worship and sacrifice in the life of a believer. We should regularly engage in worship and offer our lives as living sacrifices to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the friendship between David and Jonathan inspire you to cultivate godly relationships in your own life?

2. In what ways can you honor your family commitments while still prioritizing your relationship with God?

3. How can you apply the principle of wise communication in your current relationships or conflicts?

4. What challenges are you currently facing that require courage and trust in God's plan, similar to David's situation?

5. How can the concept of sacrifice in worship be integrated into your daily life as a believer?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18-19
These chapters provide context for Saul's growing animosity towards David, which is crucial for understanding the tension in 1 Samuel 20.

Exodus 20:12
The commandment to honor one's father and mother can be seen in David's request to attend a family sacrifice, showing respect for family obligations.

Proverbs 17:17
This verse about a friend loving at all times connects to the deep friendship and loyalty between David and Jonathan.