A new Perspective on Jonathan – his covenant with David and his ultimate choice

Abstract

Two issues concerning the relationship between Jonathan and David are discussed, one found at the beginning and the other at the end of their joint adventures as described in 1 Samuel. First, we consider how we should interpret the covenant between Jonathan and David. It is shown that this need not be interpreted positively in all respects. It is not mentioned anywhere that David inquired of Yahweh before making this covenant. It also looks like Jonathan lacked crucial information about Yahweh’s rejection of Saul. In the end, their covenant is a pact between the rejected house of Saul and the elected house of David, which appears not to have been blessed by Yahweh. Second, it is investigated whether Jonathan has actually made a choice between his father, Saul, and his friend David. The narrative seems to hint that Jonathan has in fact chosen Saul’s side. In the end, Jonathan decided not to stay with David but to return to his father’s house. As a consequence, Jonathan fought Saul’s battle and, ultimately, died with him, resulting in David’s grief.