1 Samuel 14:8
Then said Jonathan, Behold, we will pass over unto these men, and we will discover ourselves unto them.
Original Language Analysis
עֹֽבְרִ֖ים
Behold we will pass over
H5674
עֹֽבְרִ֖ים
Behold we will pass over
Strong's:
H5674
Word #:
5 of 9
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֑ים
unto these men
H582
הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֑ים
unto these men
Strong's:
H582
Word #:
7 of 9
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
Historical Context
Seeking signs for divine guidance was common in ancient Israel (Judges 6:36-40; 1 Samuel 6:7-9). Jonathan's proposed sign differs from demanding God prove Himself; instead, it seeks discernment for a course of action already motivated by faith.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you seek divine confirmation for faith initiatives?
- What is the difference between testing God and seeking His guidance?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Then said Jonathan, Behold, we will pass over unto these men, and we will discover ourselves unto them.
Jonathan proposes a sign (ot) to determine God's will: they will reveal themselves to the Philistines and interpret their response as divine guidance. This seeking of confirmation demonstrates that faith ventures should not proceed on mere impulse but seek God's direction. Jonathan's plan combines bold initiative with humble dependence on divine guidance. The willingness to 'discover ourselves unto them' accepts vulnerability as part of the faith test.