And Saul spake to Jonathan his son, and to all his servants, that they should kill David.

1 SAMUEL 19:1KJV
Know the Bible

1 Samuel 19:1 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 19:1 mean?

1 Samuel 19:1 describes how Saul told his son Jonathan and all his servants that they should kill David. This verse shows that Saul’s hostility toward David had become open and direct, involving others in his plan.

In this scene, Saul is the king of Israel, and he is speaking not just privately but to his own son Jonathan and to all his attendants. The situation has escalated from suspicion and jealousy to a clear command to end David’s life. This marks a turning point, as Saul is no longer hiding his intentions, and it sets up the conflict that follows in the story.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 19:1

  • The word for “kill” is מוּת (mût), which means to cause to die or to put to death. This is a strong, direct word, showing that Saul’s command was not just to harm or exile David, but to end his life.
  • The word for “servants” is עֶבֶד (ʿeved), which often refers to royal officials or attendants. Saul’s command was not limited to Jonathan; he involved his entire court, making his intent public and official.

Why 1 Samuel 19:1 matters

  • This verse makes clear that Saul’s opposition to David is now public and involves others, not just a private grudge.
  • The involvement of Jonathan is significant, as Jonathan and David are close friends, which will affect how the story unfolds.
  • The verse sets the stage for the coming chapters, where David must flee and Jonathan’s loyalty is tested, deepening the drama and tension in the narrative.

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 14:21 Moreover the Hebrews that were with the Philistines before that time, which went up with them into the camp from the country round about, even they also turned to be with the Israelites that were with Saul and Jonathan.
  • 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.