This verse from 1 Samuel 20:41 describes the emotional parting of David and Jonathan, two close friends who are bound by a deep covenant of loyalty and love. Let's break it down:
"As soon as the boy was gone..." This refers to the servant whom Jonathan had sent away after giving him instructions to collect the arrows, effectively signaling to David whether it was safe for him to return to King Saul's presence. Once the servant was out of sight, David knew Jonathan's signal meant danger.
"...David arose out of the south..." This indicates that David was hiding somewhere south of where Jonathan was, likely waiting for Jonathan's signal. He emerged from his hiding place once he knew the servant was gone.
"...and fell on his face to the ground, and bowed himself three times." This demonstrates David's deep respect and reverence for Jonathan. It's also an expression of his distress and sorrow at their forced separation. This could also be the bowing he was going to give Saul, that Jonathan told him he need not do.
"They kissed one another..." This shows the affection and love they shared as close friends. Kissing was a common form of greeting and showing affection in that culture.
"...and wept one with another..." The use of "wept one with another" shows that their grief was shared and mutual. They were both deeply saddened by their separation and the circumstances forcing them apart.
"...and David wept the most." This suggests that David was experiencing even greater grief than Jonathan. This could be because David was in more immediate danger, or because he realized the profound implications of their separation for his future. He was being forced to flee for his life, and their friendship was being tested by the threat of King Saul's wrath.
In essence, this verse depicts a poignant scene of deep sorrow, love, and loyalty between David and Jonathan. It marks a significant turning point in their relationship as David is now on the run, and their friendship is under immense pressure due to Saul's animosity towards David. Their farewell is not just a simple goodbye; it's a testament to their bond and a lament over the circumstances that are tearing them apart. It highlights the depth of their friendship and the pain they both feel as David goes into exile.
This verse from 1 Samuel 20:41 describes the emotional parting of David and Jonathan, two close friends who are bound by a deep covenant of loyalty and love. Let's break it down:
"As soon as the boy was gone..." This refers to the servant whom Jonathan had sent away after giving him instructions to collect the arrows, effectively signaling to David whether it was safe for him to return to King Saul's presence. Once the servant was out of sight, David knew Jonathan's signal meant danger.
"...David arose out of the south..." This indicates that David was hiding somewhere south of where Jonathan was, likely waiting for Jonathan's signal. He emerged from his hiding place once he knew the servant was gone.
"...and fell on his face to the ground, and bowed himself three times." This demonstrates David's deep respect and reverence for Jonathan. It's also an expression of his distress and sorrow at their forced separation. This could also be the bowing he was going to give Saul, that Jonathan told him he need not do.
"They kissed one another..." This shows the affection and love they shared as close friends. Kissing was a common form of greeting and showing affection in that culture.
"...and wept one with another..." The use of "wept one with another" shows that their grief was shared and mutual. They were both deeply saddened by their separation and the circumstances forcing them apart.
"...and David wept the most." This suggests that David was experiencing even greater grief than Jonathan. This could be because David was in more immediate danger, or because he realized the profound implications of their separation for his future. He was being forced to flee for his life, and their friendship was being tested by the threat of King Saul's wrath.
In essence, this verse depicts a poignant scene of deep sorrow, love, and loyalty between David and Jonathan. It marks a significant turning point in their relationship as David is now on the run, and their friendship is under immense pressure due to Saul's animosity towards David. Their farewell is not just a simple goodbye; it's a testament to their bond and a lament over the circumstances that are tearing them apart. It highlights the depth of their friendship and the pain they both feel as David goes into exile.