1 Samuel 20:23 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 20:23 mean?

1 Samuel 20:23 means that Jonathan is reminding David that the agreement or promise they made is not just between the two of them, but that the LORD is a witness and guarantor of their words forever. Jonathan is emphasizing that their bond and the matter they discussed are secured by God’s ongoing presence.

Jonathan is speaking to David during a tense time when David’s life is in danger from King Saul, Jonathan’s father. The two friends have just made a covenant to protect and support each other, no matter what happens. By saying “the LORD be between thee and me for ever,” Jonathan is underlining the seriousness and lasting nature of their promise, making it clear that God Himself stands as a witness to their words and loyalty.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 20:23

• “LORD” (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name for God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing that the promise is not just a human agreement but is made in the presence of Israel’s God, giving it ultimate seriousness.
• “for ever” (עַד־עוֹלָם, ʿad-ʿolam): This phrase means “for all time” or “forever,” showing that Jonathan sees their agreement as lasting beyond their own lives, not just a temporary arrangement.
• “matter” (דָּבָר, davar): This word can mean “word,” “thing,” or “matter.” Here, it refers to the specific agreement or topic Jonathan and David have discussed, highlighting that their conversation is about something weighty and important.

Why 1 Samuel 20:23 matters

• This verse clarifies that Jonathan and David’s covenant is not just a private pact but is made with God as a witness, stressing the seriousness and sacredness of their promise.
• The emphasis on “forever” shows that their loyalty and commitment are meant to outlast their immediate circumstances, hinting at the enduring nature of true friendship and faithfulness.
• Understanding this verse helps explain the deep trust and bond between Jonathan and David throughout the wider story, and why their relationship is often seen as a model of loyalty in the Bible.