1 Samuel 20:33 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 20:33 mean?

1 Samuel 20:33 describes how King Saul, in a fit of anger, threw a javelin at his own son Jonathan to strike him. This violent act made it clear to Jonathan that his father was fully determined to kill David.

The scene takes place during a tense meal where Saul is frustrated with Jonathan for defending David. Saul’s action—throwing the javelin—shows not just anger but a deadly seriousness about his intent to harm David. Jonathan, witnessing this, finally understands the depth of Saul’s resolve and the real danger David faces.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 20:33

• "Cast" (יָטַל, yaṭal): This word means to throw or hurl, emphasizing the force and intent behind Saul’s action. It is not a casual toss but a deliberate, aggressive move.
• "Javelin" (חֲנִית, ḥanit): This is a spear or weapon used for throwing. Saul’s repeated use of the javelin in earlier chapters shows a pattern of violent outbursts.
• "Smite" (נָכָה, nākhah): This verb means to strike or hit with the intent to harm or kill. Saul’s aim was not to scare Jonathan but to seriously injure him.
• "Determined" (כָּלָה, kalah): This word carries the idea of something being finished or completed. Jonathan realizes that Saul’s decision to kill David is final and unwavering.

Why 1 Samuel 20:33 matters

• This verse makes it unmistakably clear to Jonathan that Saul’s hostility toward David is not just talk or temporary anger, but a settled intent to kill.
• The violence Saul shows toward his own son highlights how far his obsession with David has gone, even to the point of threatening his own family.
• This moment is a turning point in the story, confirming for Jonathan—and for the reader—that David truly is in mortal danger and that Jonathan’s loyalty to David will come at great personal cost.