1 Samuel 23:16
And Jonathan Saul's son arose, and went to David into the wood, and strengthened his hand in God.
Original Language Analysis
וַיָּ֙קָם֙
arose
H6965
וַיָּ֙קָם֙
arose
Strong's:
H6965
Word #:
1 of 12
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
בֶּן
son
H1121
בֶּן
son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
3 of 12
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ
H1980
וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ
Strong's:
H1980
Word #:
5 of 12
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
חֹ֑רְשָׁה
into the wood
H2793
חֹ֑רְשָׁה
into the wood
Strong's:
H2793
Word #:
8 of 12
a forest (perhaps as furnishing the material for fabric)
וַיְחַזֵּ֥ק
and strengthened
H2388
וַיְחַזֵּ֥ק
and strengthened
Strong's:
H2388
Word #:
9 of 12
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
10 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Cross References
2 Timothy 2:1Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.Ephesians 6:10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.Luke 22:32But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.1 Samuel 30:6And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.Luke 22:43And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.Nehemiah 2:18Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king's words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work.Proverbs 27:9Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.Proverbs 27:17Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.Deuteronomy 3:28But charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him: for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which thou shalt see.Job 16:5But I would strengthen you with my mouth, and the moving of my lips should asswage your grief.
Historical Context
Jonathan's journey into the wilderness required evading both his father's surveillance and the dangers of travel. His willingness to seek David demonstrated loyalty exceeding family bonds. This meeting was likely their last significant encounter before Jonathan's death.
Questions for Reflection
- Who has 'strengthened your hand in God' during your most difficult seasons?
- How do you minister divine encouragement to friends facing discouragement?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And Jonathan Saul's son arose, and went to David into the wood, and strengthened his hand in God.
Jonathan's visit represents remarkable covenant faithfulness. The Hebrew 'vayechazzeq et-yado belohim' (strengthened his hand in God) describes spiritual encouragement rooted in divine promises. Jonathan risked everything—discovery would confirm his father's conspiracy accusations. Yet love compelled him to find David in his lowest moment. The phrase 'strengthened his hand' echoes Joshua's commissioning (Deuteronomy 3:28) and describes preparation for divine assignment. Jonathan did not merely comfort David emotionally but reinforced his grip on God's promises. True friendship ministers God's truth when circumstances contradict His promises.