And Jonathan climbed up upon his hands and upon his feet, and his armourbearer after him: and they fell before Jonathan; and his armourbearer slew after him.

1 SAMUEL 14:13KJV
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1 Samuel 14:13 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 14:13 mean?

1 Samuel 14:13 describes Jonathan climbing up a steep place on his hands and feet, with his armourbearer following him. As they advance, Jonathan strikes down the enemy soldiers ahead of him, and his armourbearer finishes off those who fall behind.

This verse takes place during a daring attack by Jonathan, the son of King Saul, against a Philistine outpost. Jonathan and his armourbearer are acting alone, showing both courage and trust in God. The verse highlights the physical effort of the climb and the teamwork between Jonathan and his armourbearer as they defeat their enemies together.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 14:13

  • "Fell" (נָפַל, nāphal): This word is used for the Philistines who "fell before Jonathan." It often means to fall down, be struck down, or die, emphasizing the defeat of the enemy as Jonathan advances.
  • "Armourbearer" (נָשָׂא כֵּלִי, nāśā’ kēlî): This phrase refers to the young man who carried Jonathan’s weapons. His role was not just to carry equipment but to actively assist in battle, as shown by his finishing off the enemies Jonathan struck.
  • "After" (אַחַר, ’achar): This word is used twice, once for the armourbearer following Jonathan up the slope and again for the armourbearer killing after Jonathan. It highlights the close coordination and sequence of their actions.

Why 1 Samuel 14:13 matters

  • The verse clears up that Jonathan was not alone; his armourbearer played an active, essential role in the victory, not just carrying weapons but participating in the fight.
  • The physical detail of climbing "upon his hands and upon his feet" shows the steepness and difficulty of the approach, emphasizing Jonathan’s determination and bravery.
  • This verse is part of a larger story showing how faith and bold action, even by just two people, can have a significant impact against overwhelming odds.

Where else these words appear

“Jonathan” Hebrew H3129 · used in 35 verses

  • 1 Samuel 13:2 Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel; whereof two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.
  • 1 Samuel 14:27 But Jonathan heard not when his father charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put forth the end of the rod that was in his hand, and dipped it in an honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes were enlightened.
  • 1 Kings 1:42 And while he yet spake, behold, Jonathan the son of Abiathar the priest came: and Adonijah said unto him, Come in; for thou art a valiant man, and bringest good tidings.