The Arrow Signal is a significant event found in the Old Testament, specifically in the narrative of David and Jonathan, which illustrates themes of loyalty, divine providence, and covenant friendship. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 20, where Jonathan, the son of King Saul, uses a prearranged signal involving arrows to communicate with David, who is in hiding due to Saul's intent to kill him.

Context and Background

David, having gained favor in the eyes of the people and the Lord, becomes a target of King Saul's jealousy and wrath. Despite Saul's animosity, Jonathan, Saul's son, forms a deep and covenantal friendship with David. Jonathan recognizes David's anointing and God's plan for him, which leads to a conflict of loyalty between his father and his friend.

The Covenant

Before the arrow signal, Jonathan and David make a covenant before the Lord, affirming their mutual loyalty and the future protection of each other's descendants. This covenant is a profound expression of faith and trust in God's overarching plan, transcending familial ties and political ambition.

1 Samuel 20:16-17 states: "So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, 'May the LORD hold David’s enemies accountable.' And Jonathan had David reaffirm his vow out of love for him, for Jonathan loved David as he loved himself."

The Plan

To discern Saul's intentions, Jonathan devises a plan involving a feast of the New Moon. David is to hide in the field, while Jonathan gauges Saul's reaction to David's absence. If Saul reacts angrily, it confirms his intent to harm David. Jonathan will then communicate the outcome to David using a signal involving arrows.

The Arrow Signal

The signal is a clever and discreet method of communication. Jonathan tells David that he will shoot three arrows to the side of a stone where David is hiding. He instructs a boy to retrieve the arrows. If Jonathan tells the boy, "Look, the arrows are on this side of you; bring them here," it is safe for David to return. However, if he says, "Look, the arrows are beyond you," David must flee, for it indicates danger.

1 Samuel 20:21-22 records: "Then I will send a boy and say, 'Go, find the arrows!' Now, if I expressly say to him, 'Look, the arrows are on this side of you; bring them here,' then come, because as surely as the LORD lives, it is safe for you and there is no danger. But if I say to the young man, 'Look, the arrows are beyond you,' then you must go, for the LORD has sent you away."

The Execution

The plan unfolds as anticipated. Saul's anger confirms his murderous intent, and Jonathan faithfully executes the arrow signal. He shoots the arrows beyond the boy, signaling David to flee. This act of loyalty and obedience to God's will underscores the depth of Jonathan's commitment to David and to God's purposes.

Significance

The Arrow Signal is emblematic of divine guidance and protection. It highlights the importance of faithfulness to God's anointed and the power of covenant relationships. Jonathan's actions demonstrate a willingness to sacrifice personal ambition and familial allegiance for the sake of God's plan. This narrative also foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to David, who would become king and establish a lineage leading to the Messiah.

The Arrow Signal remains a poignant reminder of the sovereignty of God in orchestrating events for His purposes and the role of human agency in fulfilling divine will.