Jonathan was King Saul's eldest son and heir to the throne, but he is best known for his deep friendship with David. Despite his father's hatred toward David, Jonathan remained loyal to his friend and protected him. He died alongside his father in battle against the Philistines.
6Jonathan said to the young man who carried his armor, "Come, let's cross over to the outpost of these uncircumcised men. Perhaps the LORD will act for us, for nothing can keep the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few."
12The men of the outpost called out to Jonathan and his armor-bearer, "Come up to us, and we'll teach you a lesson!" Jonathan said to his armor-bearer, "Climb up behind me, for the LORD has given them into the hand of Israel."
13Jonathan climbed up on his hands and feet, with his armor-bearer behind him. The Philistines fell before Jonathan, and his armor-bearer came behind and finished them off.
15Then panic spread through the camp, the field, and all the troops. The outpost and the raiding parties trembled too; the earth shook, and it became a terror from God.
4So Jonathan spoke well of David to his father Saul. He said to him, "Let the king not sin against his servant David, for he has not sinned against you. What he has done has been of great benefit to you.
5He took his life in his hands when he struck down the Philistine, and the LORD brought about a great victory for all Israel. You saw it, and you rejoiced. Why then would you sin against innocent blood by killing David without cause?"
41When the boy had gone, David rose from his hiding place to the south, fell facedown on the ground, and bowed three times. Then they kissed each other and wept together—David wept the longest.
42Jonathan said to David, "Go in peace. We have both sworn in the name of the LORD, saying, 'The LORD be between you and me, and between your descendants and mine, forever.'"