1 Samuel 20:40
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 20:40
40 And Jonathan gave his artillery unto his lad, and said unto him, Go, carry them to the city.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 20 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, worship, love. Written during the transition to monarchy (c. 1050-1010 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Israel transitioned from tribal confederacy to monarchy while facing Philistine military pressure.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-42: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Samuel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Samuel 20:40
40 And Jonathan gave his artillery unto his lad, and said unto him, Go, carry them to the city.
Analysis
And Jonathan gave his artillery unto his lad, and said unto him, Go, carry them to the city.
Jonathan dismissed the servant - 'Go, carry them to the city' - creating privacy for his farewell with David. The term 'artillery' (bow and arrows) represented the tools of communication that had served their purpose. Sending the boy away removed the witness, allowing the friends to meet directly despite the danger. Jonathan's instruction was simple but decisive, ending the coded communication phase and beginning their final private moments. Sometimes we must create space for grief and farewell by dismissing others.
Historical Context
The Hebrew term translated 'artillery' refers to bow and arrows. Servants typically carried equipment for their masters. Sending the boy to the city removed him from the field, creating isolation for the friends' parting.
Reflection
- How do you create space for significant private moments with close friends?
- What does Jonathan's deliberate dismissal of the servant teach about the importance of unwitnessed farewell?