1 Samuel 20:19 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 20:19 mean?

1 Samuel 20:19 gives David instructions to hide by a specific stone called Ezel after staying away for three days. Jonathan tells David to return secretly to the same hiding place they used before, so they can carry out a plan to communicate safely about Saul’s intentions.

In this verse, Jonathan is speaking to David during a tense time when David’s life is in danger from King Saul. Jonathan and David are arranging a secret meeting spot, using the stone Ezel as a landmark, so Jonathan can safely pass information to David about whether it is safe for him to return to Saul’s court. This careful planning shows the danger David faced and the trust between the two friends.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 20:19

• "Hide" (סָתַר, satar): This word means to conceal oneself or to be hidden. Jonathan is not just telling David to leave, but to actively find a place where he will not be discovered, highlighting the seriousness of the threat.
• "Stone" (אֶבֶן, even) and "Ezel" (אֵצֶל, etzel): The stone called Ezel is a specific landmark. The name "Ezel" likely means "departure" or "going away," which fits the context of David hiding and possibly having to flee.
• "Business" (מַעֲשֶׂה, ma’aseh): This word refers to an important matter or event. Jonathan is reminding David of a previous time when he had to hide because of urgent, dangerous circumstances, connecting their current plan to past experiences.

Why 1 Samuel 20:19 matters

• This verse shows the careful planning and trust between Jonathan and David, making clear how dangerous the situation was for David.
• The mention of the stone Ezel as a landmark helps the reader picture the real, physical setting and the secretive nature of their meeting.
• Understanding the original words for "hide" and "business" highlights just how serious and life-threatening David’s situation was, not just a casual hiding but a matter of survival.