1 Samuel 20:3

Arabic Bible AVD 1999 (الكتاب المقدس)

فَحَلَفَ أَيْضًا دَاوُدُ وَقَالَ: «إِنَّ أَبَاكَ قَدْ عَلِمَ أَنِّي قَدْ وَجَدْتُ نِعْمَةً فِي عَيْنَيْكَ، فَقَالَ: لَا يَعْلَمْ يُونَاثَانُ هَذَا لِئَلَّا يَغْتَمَّ. وَلَكِنْ حَيٌّ هُوَ ٱلرَّبُّ، وَحَيَّةٌ هِيَ نَفْسُكَ، إِنَّهُ كَخَطْوَةٍ بَيْنِي وَبَيْنَ ٱلْمَوْتِ».

What Does This Mean?

David is speaking to Jonathan and saying that his father, Saul, knows David is in Jonathan's good graces. David also mentions that he feels very close to death. This verse shows the deep bond between David and Jonathan and David's perilous situation.

Explained for Children

Imagine you and your best friend are in a really tricky situation. Your friend's dad is a bit scary and doesn't like you, but your friend does. You tell your friend that you're in big trouble, like standing on the edge of a cliff. That's how David feels, but he's talking to Jonathan about it.

Historical Background

This verse is from the book of 1 Samuel, written by Samuel, Nathan, and Gad. It was written around 930 BCE and is set during the time of King Saul and David. The audience would have been the Israelites, and the cultural setting was one of tribal alliances and kingship.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse could apply to a scenario where a person is facing danger or difficulties and is reaching out to a trusted friend for support and understanding. The trust and loyalty between David and Jonathan can be mirrored in any strong friendship.

Topics

• friendship
• trust
• danger
• loyalty
• salvation
• hope

Related Verses

• 1 Samuel 18:1-4
• 1 Samuel 23:16-18
• 2 Samuel 1:26
• Psalm 119:109
• John 15:13

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of David swearing?

David's swearing emphasizes the seriousness and sincerity of his words, underscoring the depth of his situation and the bond with Jonathan.

Why is Saul keeping this from Jonathan?

Saul likely fears Jonathan's reaction might jeopardize his plans against David, showing Saul's manipulative tactics to maintain control.

How does this verse highlight the friendship between David and Jonathan?

This verse shows the trust and loyalty between David and Jonathan, as David confides in Jonathan about his perilous situation.

What does it mean by 'a step between me and death'?

This phrase indicates that David feels very close to death, expressing his dire circumstances and the immediate danger he is in.