1 Samuel 20:40 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 20:40 mean?

1 Samuel 20:40 describes Jonathan handing over his weapons or equipment to a young servant and instructing him to take them back to the city. This action is part of a secret plan between Jonathan and David to communicate safely without raising suspicion.

In this scene, Jonathan is with his servant in a field, using archery as a cover to send a hidden message to David about King Saul’s intentions. The verse shows Jonathan giving his "artillery" (which here means his bow, arrows, and possibly other gear) to the boy, telling him to return to the city, so Jonathan can speak privately with David. This careful arrangement highlights the secrecy and trust between Jonathan and David during a dangerous time.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 20:40

• The word "artillery" translates the Hebrew כֵּלִים (kēlîm), which often means "equipment," "instruments," or "gear," not just weapons. In this context, it refers to Jonathan’s archery equipment, not heavy military weapons.
• The word "lad" is נַעַר (naʿar), meaning a young boy or servant. This points to the servant’s youth and subordinate role, emphasizing that he is not part of the secret plan.
• The verb "carry" comes from בּוֹא (bô’), which usually means "to bring" or "to go in." Here, it is used in the sense of taking the equipment back to the city, removing the servant from the scene.

Why 1 Samuel 20:40 matters

• The verse clarifies that "artillery" in the King James Version refers to simple archery gear, not cannons or modern weapons, which can be confusing to modern readers.
• This action is a key part of Jonathan’s plan to protect David, showing their loyalty and the risks they take for each other.
• The careful removal of the servant sets up the private meeting between Jonathan and David, which is crucial for the emotional and narrative climax of the chapter.