The Arrow Incident refers to a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the First Book of Samuel. This incident involves Jonathan, the son of King Saul, and David, the future king of Israel. It is a poignant moment that highlights the deep friendship and loyalty between Jonathan and David, set against the backdrop of King Saul's growing animosity towards David.

Biblical Context

The narrative of the Arrow Incident is found in 1 Samuel 20. At this point in the biblical account, David has become a favored warrior in King Saul's court, having slain Goliath and achieved numerous military victories. However, Saul's jealousy and fear of David's rising popularity and God's favor lead him to seek David's life. Jonathan, Saul's son, and David share a covenantal friendship, and Jonathan is determined to protect David from his father's wrath.

The Plan

Jonathan devises a plan to secretly communicate Saul's intentions to David. They agree on a signal involving arrows to convey whether it is safe for David to return to the court or if he must flee. Jonathan tells David, "I will shoot three arrows to the side of it, as though I were shooting at a target" (1 Samuel 20:20). The plan is for Jonathan to shoot arrows in the field where David is hiding and to send a boy to retrieve them. If Jonathan tells the boy that the arrows are on this side of him, it is safe for David. However, if he says the arrows are beyond him, David must flee.

The Execution

On the appointed day, Jonathan goes out to the field with a young boy. He shoots the arrows and calls out to the boy, "Is not the arrow beyond you?" (1 Samuel 20:37). This signal confirms to David that Saul's intentions are indeed hostile, and he must escape. After the boy retrieves the arrows and leaves, David emerges from hiding. The two friends share a tearful farewell, reaffirming their covenant before the LORD. Jonathan says to David, "Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD, saying, 'The LORD is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever'" (1 Samuel 20:42).

Significance

The Arrow Incident is a testament to the loyalty and faithfulness between Jonathan and David. It underscores the theme of divine providence and protection over David's life, as God uses Jonathan to preserve David for his future role as king. The incident also highlights the tragic conflict between Saul's destructive jealousy and the righteous bond of friendship and covenant between Jonathan and David. This event is a powerful example of sacrificial love and the importance of honoring one's commitments before God.