1 Samuel 20:32

"Why must he be put to death?" Jonathan replied. "What has he done?"

Study Bible

Why must he be put to death?
This phrase is a poignant question posed by Jonathan, the son of King Saul, in defense of his friend David. The Hebrew root for "put to death" is "mûth," which conveys the ultimate penalty and finality of death. In the historical context of ancient Israel, the death penalty was reserved for severe transgressions against God's law. Jonathan's question challenges the justice of such a sentence for David, who has been loyal and faithful. This reflects Jonathan's courage and moral integrity, standing up for righteousness even against his own father, the king. It is a call to examine the motives behind our judgments and to seek God's justice rather than human retribution.

Jonathan replied
Jonathan's response is significant, as it demonstrates his loyalty and love for David, as well as his commitment to truth and justice. The Hebrew name "Jonathan" means "Yahweh has given," which is fitting as Jonathan acts as a divine instrument of protection for David. His reply is not just a defense of David but also an appeal to his father Saul's conscience. In the broader scriptural narrative, Jonathan's actions exemplify the biblical principle of standing for truth and righteousness, even when it is costly. His reply is a model of godly friendship and integrity.

What has he done?
This question underscores the innocence of David and the baselessness of Saul's hostility. The Hebrew word for "done" is "ʿāśâ," which means to act, accomplish, or produce. Jonathan is essentially asking for evidence of wrongdoing, highlighting the lack of any just cause for David's execution. This phrase invites readers to reflect on the importance of justice and the need for evidence before passing judgment. It also points to the theme of innocence suffering at the hands of unjust authority, a motif that resonates throughout the Bible and finds its ultimate expression in the life of Jesus Christ. Jonathan's question is a call to uphold truth and justice, reminding believers to seek God's wisdom in discerning right from wrong.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. Known for his loyalty and righteousness, Jonathan often acts as a mediator between his father and David.

2. Saul
The first king of Israel, who becomes increasingly paranoid and hostile towards David, seeing him as a threat to his throne.

3. David
Anointed by God to be the next king of Israel, David is a man after God's own heart. At this point in the account, he is fleeing from Saul's attempts to kill him.

4. The Royal Court
The setting of this event, where Saul's intentions towards David are being discussed, and Jonathan is advocating for David's innocence.

5. The Covenant
The bond between Jonathan and David, which is central to this account. Their covenant is based on mutual respect and love, transcending familial and political pressures.

Teaching Points

The Courage of Advocacy
Jonathan's willingness to stand up to his father, King Saul, demonstrates the courage required to advocate for truth and justice, even when it is unpopular or dangerous.

The Power of Righteous Friendship
The bond between Jonathan and David exemplifies the strength and support that comes from godly friendships. Such relationships can provide encouragement and protection in times of trial.

Questioning Injustice
Jonathan's question, "What has he done?" challenges us to critically evaluate situations of perceived injustice and to seek truth before passing judgment.

Loyalty to God's Anointed
Jonathan's defense of David, despite his father's opposition, shows loyalty to God's chosen one. This teaches us to prioritize God's will and purposes over human allegiances.

Peacemaking in Conflict
Jonathan's role as a mediator encourages us to be peacemakers in our own conflicts, striving to bring reconciliation and understanding.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's response to Saul in 1 Samuel 20:32 demonstrate the qualities of a true friend? Reflect on a time when you had to stand up for someone else.

2. In what ways does Jonathan's advocacy for David challenge us to address injustices in our own lives or communities?

3. How can the covenant between Jonathan and David inspire us to form deeper, more meaningful relationships with others?

4. What can we learn from Jonathan's example about balancing family loyalty with doing what is right in God's eyes?

5. How does the theme of peacemaking in this passage connect with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament, and how can we apply this in our daily interactions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:1-4
This passage describes the deep friendship and covenant between Jonathan and David, highlighting the loyalty that Jonathan shows in 1 Samuel 20:32.

Proverbs 17:17
This verse speaks to the nature of true friendship, which is evident in Jonathan's defense of David.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus' teaching on peacemakers can be related to Jonathan's role as a mediator and advocate for peace between Saul and David.