King James Version
1 Samuel 23:18 in the King James Version says “And they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.” — study this verse from 1 Samuel chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.”
1 Samuel 23:18 · KJV
And Jonathan Saul's son arose, and went to David into the wood, and strengthened his hand in God.
And he said unto him, Fear not: for the hand of Saul my father shall not find thee; and thou shalt be king over Israel, and I shall be next unto thee; and that also Saul my father knoweth.
And they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.
Then came up the Ziphites to Saul to Gibeah, saying, Doth not David hide himself with us in strong holds in the wood, in the hill of Hachilah, which is on the south of Jeshimon? on: Heb. on the right hand Jeshimon: or, the wilderness
Now therefore, O king, come down according to all the desire of thy soul to come down; and our part shall be to deliver him into the king's hand.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“made”
H3772to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt
“before”
H6440the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
“abode”
H3427properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
“to his house”
H1004a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
This verse is found in the book of 1 Samuel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
1 Samuel 23:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to 1 Samuel 23:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge