1 Samuel 20:6

If your father misses me at all, tell him, 'David urgently requested my permission to hurry to Bethlehem, his hometown, because there is an annual sacrifice for his whole clan.'

Study Bible

If your father misses me at all
This phrase sets the stage for a test of Saul's intentions towards David. The Hebrew root for "misses" (פָּקַד, paqad) can imply noticing an absence or taking account of someone. In the context of ancient Israel, where family and tribal connections were paramount, the absence of a key figure like David would be significant. This phrase underscores the tension and uncertainty in David's relationship with Saul, highlighting the precariousness of David's position at court.

tell him
The instruction to "tell him" indicates a planned deception, which is a strategic move by Jonathan and David. In the Hebrew culture, communication was often direct and personal, and the act of conveying a message carried weight and responsibility. This phrase reflects the trust between Jonathan and David, as well as the gravity of the situation, where words could determine life or death.

David urgently requested
The urgency in David's request is emphasized by the Hebrew word שָׁאַל (sha'al), which means to ask or request earnestly. This urgency reflects the dire circumstances David finds himself in, needing to escape Saul's wrath. It also shows David's reliance on Jonathan's loyalty and the necessity of quick action in the face of danger.

my permission to hurry
The concept of seeking "permission" (שָׁאַל, sha'al) in this context is significant, as it reflects the hierarchical and respectful nature of relationships in ancient Israel. David, despite being anointed by God, still respects the authority of Saul and Jonathan. The word "hurry" (מָהַר, mahar) conveys the immediacy and seriousness of the situation, emphasizing the need for swift action to avoid potential harm.

to Bethlehem, his hometown
Bethlehem, known as the "House of Bread," is significant as David's birthplace and later as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. This reference to Bethlehem roots David in his familial and tribal identity, highlighting the importance of kinship and heritage in Israelite society. It also foreshadows the Messianic lineage, connecting David's account to the broader narrative of salvation history.

because there is an annual sacrifice
The mention of an "annual sacrifice" (זֶבַח, zevach) situates the narrative within the religious practices of ancient Israel. Sacrifices were central to Israelite worship, serving as acts of atonement, thanksgiving, and communal celebration. This detail not only provides a plausible reason for David's absence but also underscores the religious and cultural backdrop of the story, where faith and tradition are interwoven with daily life.

for his whole clan
The reference to "his whole clan" (מִשְׁפָּחָה, mishpachah) highlights the communal nature of Israelite society, where family and tribal affiliations were crucial. This phrase emphasizes the collective identity and responsibility within the clan, reflecting the interconnectedness of personal and communal obligations. It also underscores the potential impact of David's absence on his family, adding another layer of complexity to the narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, and a man after God's own heart. At this point, he is fleeing from King Saul, who seeks to kill him.

2. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. He is caught between his loyalty to his father and his covenant friendship with David.

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

4. Bethlehem
David's hometown, where he claims to be going for a family sacrifice. It is significant as the birthplace of David and later, Jesus Christ.

5. Annual Sacrifice
A religious event that David uses as a plausible reason for his absence from Saul's court, highlighting the importance of family and religious duties in Israelite culture.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Friendships
Jonathan and David's relationship exemplifies loyalty, trust, and sacrificial love. Believers are encouraged to cultivate friendships that honor God and support one another in faith.

Trusting God's Plan
Despite the danger he faces, David trusts in God's plan for his life. This teaches us to rely on God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem dire.

Wisdom in Difficult Situations
David's strategic thinking in using the annual sacrifice as a reason for his absence shows the importance of wisdom and discernment in navigating challenging situations.

The Role of Family and Tradition
The mention of the annual sacrifice underscores the value of family and religious traditions in maintaining faith and community.

Courage to Stand for Righteousness
Jonathan's willingness to defy his father for the sake of truth and justice challenges us to stand firm in our convictions, even when it is difficult.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the friendship between David and Jonathan inspire you to build stronger, faith-based relationships in your own life?

2. In what ways can you demonstrate trust in God's plan when facing uncertain or challenging circumstances?

3. How can you apply wisdom and discernment in your current life situations, as David did in his interactions with Saul?

4. What family or religious traditions help you stay grounded in your faith, and how can you prioritize them in your life?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to stand up for what is right. How did your faith influence your actions, and what can you learn from Jonathan's example?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 16
This chapter provides background on David's anointing by Samuel, setting the stage for his rise and Saul's jealousy.

1 Samuel 18
Details the covenant friendship between David and Jonathan, which is crucial for understanding Jonathan's willingness to help David.

Psalm 23
Written by David, this psalm reflects his deep trust in God, which is evident in his actions and decisions throughout his life.

Matthew 2
Bethlehem is also the birthplace of Jesus, connecting David's account to the broader account of salvation history.