MPV Commentary

25. The king sat on his throne as usual, positioned by the wall. This was the most honored seat in the room, where the person seated had their left arm confined by the wall but their right hand free to move.

Jonathan stood up, likely out of respect for the king or following a customary Oriental practice for a son to stand before his father.

26. The king didn't seem to notice David's absence, possibly assuming he was ceremonially unclean.

27. On the second day of the month, Saul asked Jonathan, "Why hasn't the son of Jesse come?" He seemed to ask casually, but Jonathan had already replied that David had obtained permission to attend a family gathering in Bethlehem.

28-30. The king's anger boiled over as he launched into a violent outburst against his son, calling him "son of the perverse rebellious woman." This was a common Oriental way of insulting someone by referencing their mother's character. Saul wasn't angry with his wife; he was directing his rage at Jonathan.

31-33. The king's anger reached a fever pitch as he hurled a javelin at Jonathan, demonstrating the depth of his madness.

34-35. At the appointed time, Jonathan went out to meet David in secret. He told his attendant, "Go find the arrows I shoot," which was their prearranged signal for danger.

36-40. Jonathan handed over his bow and quiver to his servant, allowing him to leave while they enjoyed a final meeting. The king's servants were unaware of this secret encounter.

41-42. David fell to the ground in respect for Jonathan's rank, but as he drew near, their affection for each other took precedence. Jonathan told David, "Go in peace," and hastened his departure so they could part ways quickly.