This verse, 1 Samuel 20:11, is a simple yet significant part of a larger narrative about the close friendship between Jonathan and David, and the danger David is in from Jonathan's father, King Saul. Here's what it means in context:
Jonathan said to David, “Come, and let us go out into the field.” Jonathan initiates a meeting with David in a secluded location. The field provides privacy, allowing them to speak freely and devise a plan without being overheard by King Saul or his servants.
They both went out into the field. This simply states that they followed through with Jonathan's proposal. Their agreement to meet underscores the importance of the situation and their mutual trust.
In the larger context of 1 Samuel 20:
David is on the run, fearing for his life because King Saul is trying to kill him out of jealousy and paranoia.
David seeks help from Jonathan, who is loyal to him despite Jonathan being Saul's son and heir to the throne.
The field is the location where they plan to devise a test to discern Saul's true intentions toward David. Jonathan will observe Saul's reaction and then signal David to let him know if it's safe to return.
The private meeting emphasizes the secret and dangerous nature of their alliance. Jonathan is risking his own safety by helping David.
Therefore, the verse functions as a transition in the story, setting the scene for a crucial meeting where Jonathan and David will conspire to understand and address the threat posed by King Saul.
This verse, 1 Samuel 20:11, is a simple yet significant part of a larger narrative about the close friendship between Jonathan and David, and the danger David is in from Jonathan's father, King Saul. Here's what it means in context:
Jonathan said to David, “Come, and let us go out into the field.” Jonathan initiates a meeting with David in a secluded location. The field provides privacy, allowing them to speak freely and devise a plan without being overheard by King Saul or his servants.
They both went out into the field. This simply states that they followed through with Jonathan's proposal. Their agreement to meet underscores the importance of the situation and their mutual trust.
In the larger context of 1 Samuel 20:
David is on the run, fearing for his life because King Saul is trying to kill him out of jealousy and paranoia.
David seeks help from Jonathan, who is loyal to him despite Jonathan being Saul's son and heir to the throne.
The field is the location where they plan to devise a test to discern Saul's true intentions toward David. Jonathan will observe Saul's reaction and then signal David to let him know if it's safe to return.
The private meeting emphasizes the secret and dangerous nature of their alliance. Jonathan is risking his own safety by helping David.
Therefore, the verse functions as a transition in the story, setting the scene for a crucial meeting where Jonathan and David will conspire to understand and address the threat posed by King Saul.