1 Samuel 20:2
1 Samuel 20:2 in Multiple Translations
“Far from it!” Jonathan replied. “You will not die. Indeed, my father does nothing, great or small, without telling me. So why would he hide this matter from me? This cannot be true!”
And he said unto him, God forbid; thou shalt not die: behold, my father will do nothing either great or small, but that he will shew it me: and why should my father hide this thing from me? it is not so.
And he said unto him, Far from it; thou shalt not die: behold, my father doeth nothing either great or small, but that he discloseth it unto me; and why should my father hide this thing from me? it is not so.
And he said to him, Far be the thought: you will not be put to death: see, my father does nothing, great or small, without giving me word of it: would he keep this secret from me? It is not so.
“Nothing!” Jonathan replied. “You're not going to die! Listen! My father tells me everything he's planning, whatever it is. Why would my father keep something like this from me? It's not true!”
And he sayde vnto him, God forbid, thou shalt not die: beholde, my father will do nothing great nor small, but he will shewe it me: and why should my father hide this thing from me? he will not doe it.
And he saith to him, 'Far be it! thou dost not die; lo, my father doth not do anything great or small and doth not uncover mine ear; and wherefore doth my father hide from me this thing? this [thing] is not.'
He said to him, “Far from it; you will not die. Behold, my father does nothing either great or small, but that he discloses it to me. Why would my father hide this thing from me? It is not so.”
And he said to him, Far be it from thee; thou shalt not die: behold, my father will do nothing, either great or small, but that he will show it to me: and why should my father hide this thing from me? it is not so .
And he said to him: God forbid, thou shalt not die: for my father will do nothing great or little, without first telling me: hath then my father hid this word only from me? no, this shall not be.
Jonathan replied, “My father is surely not trying to kill you! He always tells me before he does anything that he is planning. He tells me about important things and unimportant things that he plans to do. ◄Why would he refuse to tell me if he were planning to kill me?/I am sure that he would not refuse to tell me if he were planning to kill you.► [RHQ] So what you are saying cannot be true.”
Jonathan answered, “No way. That is not true. He will not kill you. My father has not told me that he wants to do that. He always tells me what he is thinking. That’s his way. He does not tell lies to me.”
Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 20:2
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
1 Samuel 20:2 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר
ל֣/וֹ
חָלִילָ/ה֮
לֹ֣א
תָמוּת֒
הִנֵּ֡ה
ל/ו
עשה
לֹֽא
יַעֲשֶׂ֨ה
אָבִ֜/י
דָּבָ֣ר
גָּד֗וֹל
א֚וֹ
דָּבָ֣ר
קָטֹ֔ן
וְ/לֹ֥א
יִגְלֶ֖ה
אֶת
אָזְנִ֑/י
וּ/מַדּוּעַ֩
יַסְתִּ֨יר
אָבִ֥/י
מִמֶּ֛/נִּי
אֶת
הַ/דָּבָ֥ר
הַ/זֶּ֖ה
אֵ֥ין
זֹֽאת
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
ל֣/וֹ
Prep | Suff
חָלִילָ/ה֮
châlîylâh
H2486
forbid
Part | Suff
לֹ֣א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
תָמוּת֒
mûwth
H4191
to die
V-Qal-Imperf-2ms
הִנֵּ֡ה
hinnêh
H2009
behold
Part
ל/ו
Prep | Suff
עשה
ʻâsâh
H6213
to make
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
יַעֲשֶׂ֨ה
ʻâsâh
H6213
to make
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
אָבִ֜/י
ʼâb
H1
father
N-ms | Suff
דָּבָ֣ר
dâbâr
H1697
Chronicles
N-ms
גָּד֗וֹל
gâdôwl
H1419
Great (Sea)
Adj
א֚וֹ
ʼôw
H176
or
Conj
דָּבָ֣ר
dâbâr
H1697
Chronicles
N-ms
קָטֹ֔ן
qâṭân
H6996
small
Adj
וְ/לֹ֥א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Conj | Part
יִגְלֶ֖ה
gâlâh
H1540
to reveal
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
אָזְנִ֑/י
ʼôzen
H241
ear
N-fs | Suff
וּ/מַדּוּעַ֩
maddûwaʻ
H4069
why?
Conj | Part
יַסְתִּ֨יר
çâthar
H5641
to hide
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
אָבִ֥/י
ʼâb
H1
father
N-ms | Suff
מִמֶּ֛/נִּי
min
H4480
from
Prep | Suff
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
הַ/דָּבָ֥ר
dâbâr
H1697
Chronicles
Art | N-ms
הַ/זֶּ֖ה
zeh
H2088
this
Art | Pron
אֵ֥ין
ʼayin
H369
nothing
Part
זֹֽאת
zôʼth
H2063
this
Pron
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 20:2
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
ל֣/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
חָלִילָ/ה֮
châlîylâh
H2486
"forbid"
Part | Suff
This Hebrew word means to forbid or express strong disapproval, like saying 'God forbid' in shock or disgust, as seen in the Bible when someone wants to express a strong negative reaction.
Definition: far be it (from me), God forbid that, let it not be
Usage: Occurs in 19 OT verses. KJV: be far, ([idiom] God) forbid. See also: Genesis 18:25; 1 Samuel 20:9; Job 34:10.
לֹ֣א
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
תָמוּת֒
mûwth
H4191
"to die"
V-Qal-Imperf-2ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to die, either literally or as a punishment, and is used in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to perish or be killed. This concept is seen in the story of Adam and Eve, where death enters the world as a result of sin.
Definition: 1) to die, kill, have one executed 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to die 1a2) to die (as penalty), be put to death 1a3) to die, perish (of a nation) 1a4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct) 1b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch 1c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be killed, be put to death 1d1a) to die prematurely
Usage: Occurs in 695 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, [idiom] crying, (be) dead (body, man, one), (put to, worthy of) death, destroy(-er), (cause to, be like to, must) die, kill, necro(-mancer), [idiom] must needs, slay, [idiom] surely, [idiom] very suddenly, [idiom] in (no) wise. See also: Genesis 2:17; Exodus 21:18; Numbers 35:21.
הִנֵּ֡ה
hinnêh
H2009
"behold"
Part
This Hebrew word is an expression that means 'behold' or 'look', often used to draw attention to something. It appears in Genesis and Isaiah, and is translated as 'behold' or 'lo' in the KJV.
Definition: behold, lo, see, if
Usage: Occurs in 799 OT verses. KJV: behold, lo, see. See also: Genesis 1:29; Genesis 42:35; Deuteronomy 19:18.
ל/ו
""
Prep | Suff
עשה
ʻâsâh
H6213
"to make"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.
Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made
Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.
לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
יַעֲשֶׂ֨ה
ʻâsâh
H6213
"to make"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.
Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made
Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.
אָבִ֜/י
ʼâb
H1
"father"
N-ms | Suff
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
דָּבָ֣ר
dâbâr
H1697
"Chronicles"
N-ms
A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.
Definition: This name means word, speaking
Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.
גָּד֗וֹל
gâdôwl
H1419
"Great (Sea)"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means something or someone great, whether in size, age, or importance. It appears in descriptions of the Great Sea and the Philistines. The word is used to convey a sense of magnitude or grandeur.
Definition: adj great Also named: pe.lish.ti (פְּלִשְׁתִּי "(Sea of the )Philistines" H6430I)
Usage: Occurs in 499 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, elder(-est), [phrase] exceeding(-ly), [phrase] far, (man of) great (man, matter, thing,-er,-ness), high, long, loud, mighty, more, much, noble, proud thing, [idiom] sore, ([idiom]) very. See also: Genesis 1:16; Joshua 7:26; 1 Kings 20:13.
א֚וֹ
ʼôw
H176
"or"
Conj
Desire can also mean or, and, or if, showing a choice between options, as seen in Proverbs 31:4. It is used to express alternatives or possibilities.
Definition: 1) or, rather 1a) implying that the latter choice is preferred 1b) or if, introducing an example to be seen under a particular principle 1c) (in series) either...or, whether...or 1d) if perchance 1e) except, or else 2) whether, not the least, if, otherwise, also, and, then
Usage: Occurs in 218 OT verses. KJV: also, and, either, if, at the least, [idiom] nor, or, otherwise, then, whether. See also: Genesis 24:49; Leviticus 25:49; Proverbs 30:31.
דָּבָ֣ר
dâbâr
H1697
"Chronicles"
N-ms
A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.
Definition: This name means word, speaking
Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.
קָטֹ֔ן
qâṭân
H6996
"small"
Adj
This Hebrew word means something or someone small in size, amount, or importance. It can describe something as little or least, and is often used to convey a sense of youth or insignificance. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: young, small, unimportant Another spelling of qa.ton (קָטֹן ": small" H6996B)
Usage: Occurs in 100 OT verses. KJV: least, less(-er), little (one), small(-est, one, quantity, thing), young(-er, -est). See also: Genesis 1:16; 1 Kings 22:31; Psalms 104:25.
וְ/לֹ֥א
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Conj | Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
יִגְלֶ֖ה
gâlâh
H1540
"to reveal"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to reveal or uncover something, often in a way that's embarrassing or shameful. It can also mean to exile someone, forcing them to leave their home. In some cases, it's used to describe God revealing himself to people.
Definition: : reveal[information] 1) to uncover, remove 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to uncover 1a2) to remove, depart 1a3) to go into exile 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) (reflexive) 1b1a) to uncover oneself 1b1b) to discover or show oneself 1b1c) to reveal himself (of God) 1b2) (passive) 1b2a) to be uncovered 1b2b) to be disclosed, be discovered 1b2c) to be revealed 1b3) to be removed 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to uncover (nakedness) 1c1a) nakedness 1c1b) general 1c2) to disclose, discover, lay bare 1c3) to make known, show, reveal 1d) (Pual) to be uncovered 1e) (Hiphil) to carry away into exile, take into exile 1f) (Hophal) to be taken into exile 1g) (Hithpael) 1g1) to be uncovered 1g2) to reveal oneself
Usage: Occurs in 167 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] advertise, appear, bewray, bring, (carry, lead, go) captive (into captivity), depart, disclose, discover, exile, be gone, open, [idiom] plainly, publish, remove, reveal, [idiom] shamelessly, shew, [idiom] surely, tell, uncover. See also: Genesis 9:21; Job 38:17; Psalms 18:16.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
אָזְנִ֑/י
ʼôzen
H241
"ear"
N-fs | Suff
The Hebrew word for ear, referring to the body part or the ability to hear, is used in various contexts, including listening to God's voice in Psalm 40:6. It can also mean to uncover or reveal something, as in 1 Samuel 20:2.
Definition: : ear 1) ear, as part of the body 2) ear, as organ of hearing 3) (subjective) to uncover the ear to reveal; the receiver of divine revelation
Usage: Occurs in 179 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] advertise, audience, [phrase] displease, ear, hearing, [phrase] show. See also: Genesis 20:8; Psalms 40:7; Psalms 10:17.
וּ/מַדּוּעַ֩
maddûwaʻ
H4069
"why?"
Conj | Part
This Hebrew word is used to ask questions like why or how, seeking to understand the reason behind something. It appears in various forms in the Bible, often in contexts of inquiry or curiosity.
Definition: why?, on what account?, wherefore?
Usage: Occurs in 71 OT verses. KJV: how, wherefore, why. See also: Genesis 26:27; 2 Kings 8:12; Isaiah 5:4.
יַסְתִּ֨יר
çâthar
H5641
"to hide"
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms
This word means to hide or conceal something, like covering it up. It can also mean to keep something secret or hidden from others, as in Psalm 27:5.
Definition: 1) to hide, conceal 1a) (Niphal) 1a1) to hide oneself 1a2) to be hidden, be concealed 1b) (Piel) to hide carefully 1c) (Pual) to be hidden carefully, be concealed 1d) (Hiphil) to conceal, hide 1e) (Hithpael) to hide oneself carefully Aramaic equivalent: se.tar (סְתַר "to hide" H5642A)
Usage: Occurs in 80 OT verses. KJV: be absent, keep close, conceal, hide (self), (keep) secret, [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 4:14; Psalms 55:13; Psalms 10:11.
אָבִ֥/י
ʼâb
H1
"father"
N-ms | Suff
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
מִמֶּ֛/נִּי
min
H4480
"from"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.
Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)
Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הַ/דָּבָ֥ר
dâbâr
H1697
"Chronicles"
Art | N-ms
A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.
Definition: This name means word, speaking
Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.
הַ/זֶּ֖ה
zeh
H2088
"this"
Art | Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning this or that, used to point out a specific person or thing. It appears in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms, to indicate something specific. The KJV translates it as he, here, or it.
Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, another, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how
Usage: Occurs in 1061 OT verses. KJV: he, [idiom] hence, [idiom] here, it(-self), [idiom] now, [idiom] of him, the one...the other, [idiom] than the other, ([idiom] out of) the (self) same, such (a one) that, these, this (hath, man), on this side...on that side, [idiom] thus, very, which. Compare H2063 (זֹאת), H2090 (זֹה), H2097 (זוֹ), H2098 (זוּ). See also: Genesis 5:1; Exodus 10:17; Numbers 14:16.
אֵ֥ין
ʼayin
H369
"nothing"
Part
This word means nothing or not, often used to indicate the absence of something, as in Genesis 1:2 where the earth was without form. It emphasizes the idea of something lacking or non-existent.
Definition: 1) nothing, not, nought n 1a) nothing, nought neg 1b) not 1c) to have not (of possession) adv 1d) without w/prep 1e) for lack of
Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: else, except, fail, (father-) less, be gone, in(-curable), neither, never, no (where), none, nor, (any, thing), not, nothing, to nought, past, un(-searchable), well-nigh, without. Compare H370 (אַיִן). See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 14:27; 1 Kings 15:22.
זֹֽאת
zôʼth
H2063
"this"
Pron
This Hebrew word means this or that, often used to point out something specific. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how
Usage: Occurs in 570 OT verses. KJV: hereby (-in, -with), it, likewise, the one (other, same), she, so (much), such (deed), that, therefore, these, this (thing), thus. See also: Genesis 2:23; Numbers 7:88; Judges 1:27.
Study Notes — 1 Samuel 20:2
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 1 Samuel 20:2 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 20:2
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 20:2
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:2
- Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:2
- Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:2
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:2
- Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 20:2
- Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 20:2
- Sermons on 1 Samuel 20:2
Context — Jonathan Helps David
1Then David fled from Naioth in Ramah. He came to Jonathan and asked, “What have I done? What is my iniquity? How have I sinned against your father, that he wants to take my life?”
2“Far from it!” Jonathan replied. “You will not die. Indeed, my father does nothing, great or small, without telling me. So why would he hide this matter from me? This cannot be true!”
3But David again vowed, “Your father knows very well that I have found favor in your eyes, and he has said, ‘Jonathan must not know of this, or he will be grieved.’ As surely as the LORD lives and as you yourself live, there is but a step between me and death.” 4Then Jonathan said to David, “Whatever you desire, I will do for you.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Samuel 9:15 | Now on the day before Saul’s arrival, the LORD had revealed to Samuel, |
| 2 | John 17:8 | For I have given them the words You gave Me, and they have received them. They knew with certainty that I came from You, and they believed that You sent Me. |
| 3 | John 15:15 | No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not understand what his master is doing. But I have called you friends, because everything I have learned from My Father I have made known to you. |
| 4 | Genesis 44:7 | “Why does my lord say these things?” they asked. “Your servants could not possibly do such a thing. |
| 5 | 1 Samuel 14:45 | But the people said to Saul, “Must Jonathan die—he who accomplished such a great deliverance for Israel? Never! As surely as the LORD lives, not a hair of his head will fall to the ground, for with God’s help he has accomplished this today.” So the people rescued Jonathan, and he did not die. |
| 6 | Joshua 22:29 | Far be it from us to rebel against the LORD and turn away from Him today by building an altar for burnt offerings, grain offerings, or sacrifices, other than the altar of the LORD our God, which stands before His tabernacle.” |
| 7 | 1 Samuel 20:12 | and Jonathan said, “By the LORD, the God of Israel, I will sound out my father by this time tomorrow or the next day. If he is favorable toward you, will I not send for you and tell you? |
| 8 | Isaiah 50:5 | The Lord GOD has opened My ears, and I have not been rebellious, nor have I turned back. |
| 9 | Psalms 40:6 | Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, but my ears You have opened. Burnt offerings and sin offerings You did not require. |
| 10 | Luke 20:16 | He will come and kill those tenants, and will give the vineyard to others.” And when the people heard this, they said, “May such a thing never happen!” |
1 Samuel 20:2 Summary
[Jonathan is telling David that he doesn't think his father, King Saul, wants to hurt him, and he's trying to reassure him that everything will be okay, which shows his trust in his father's character, similar to the trust expressed in Psalm 37:3-4. He's saying that his father always includes him in his plans, so if something was going on, he would know about it. This response shows Jonathan's confidence in his relationship with his father and his desire to help his friend David, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:1-4. Jonathan's words are a reminder that God is always in control, even when we don't understand what's happening, and we can trust in His goodness and sovereignty, as in Romans 8:28.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Jonathan mean by 'Far from it!' in 1 Samuel 20:2?
Jonathan is expressing his strong disagreement with David's assumption that his father, King Saul, wants to kill him, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:1, and he is reassuring David that he will not die, which is a testament to his faith and trust in his father's relationship with him, similar to the trust expressed in Proverbs 22:1.
Why does Jonathan think his father would tell him about any plans to harm David?
Jonathan believes his father, King Saul, includes him in all his decisions, big or small, which is why he thinks it's unlikely that his father would hide something like this from him, as he is the rightful heir to the throne and Saul's confidant, much like the relationship between David and his son Solomon in 1 Kings 2:1-4.
Is Jonathan's response to David a promise of protection?
While Jonathan's response is reassuring, it's more of a statement of his confidence in his father's character and their relationship, rather than a direct promise to protect David, although he does offer to help David in 1 Samuel 20:4, demonstrating his loyalty and commitment to their friendship, similar to the bond between David and Jonathan in 1 Samuel 18:3.
How does Jonathan's response reflect his character?
Jonathan's response shows that he is a man of integrity, honesty, and loyalty, who values his relationships and is willing to stand up for what he believes in, which is evident in his words and actions throughout 1 Samuel 20, and is a testament to the kind of character God desires in His people, as seen in Micah 6:8.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can demonstrate loyalty and commitment to my friends, like Jonathan did with David?
- How can I, like Jonathan, trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when circumstances seem uncertain or threatening, as in Psalm 23:4?
- In what ways can I, like Jonathan, be a source of encouragement and reassurance to those around me, as in 1 Thessalonians 5:11?
- What are some areas in my life where I need to trust God's character and promises, rather than my own understanding or fears, as in Proverbs 3:5-6?
- How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's goodness and sovereignty, like Jonathan did, as seen in Romans 8:28?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 20:2
And he said unto him, God forbid, thou shalt not die,.... He could not believe his father had any such intention; and that if he discovered anything of that kind, it was only when he was in a frenzy,
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 20:2
And he said unto him God forbid; thou shalt not die: behold my father will do nothing either great or And he said unto him, God forbid; thou shalt not die: behold, my father will do nothing either
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:2
Thou shalt not die; I will secure thee by my interest with my father; nor doth he design to destroy thee; for what he doth in his frantic fits is not to be imputed to him; and when he comes to himself, I doubt not to reconcile thee to him. For Jonathan gave credit to his father’ s oath, ; and the worthiest minds are least suspicious and most charitable in their opinions of others.
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:2
1 Samuel 20:2 And he said unto him, God forbid; thou shalt not die: behold, my father will do nothing either great or small, but that he will shew it me: and why should my father hide this thing from me? it [is] not [so].Ver. 2. God forbid; thou shalt not die.] Jonathan could not think his father so perfidious and bloody minded; having so lately sworn to the contrary. "Love thinketh not evil, but believeth all things, hopeth all things." He knew not that Machiavellian maxim, Mercatorum est, non regum, stare iuramentis: It is for tradesmen, and not for kings to keep their oaths. Behold, my father will do nothing.] Either Jonathan knew not of Saul’ s recent attempts against David, or else he looked upon them as fruits of his frenzy, which would be soon over.
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:2
(2) God forbid; thou shalt not die.—Jonathan even now refuses to believe that his loved father, when he was himself, really wished ill to David; all that had hitherto happened the princely Jonathan put down to his father’s unhappy malady. He urges upon his friend that if the king in good earnest had designs upon David’s life, he would in his calm, lucid days have consulted with him, Jonathan, to whom he ever confided all his State secrets. Will do nothing.—Here the commentators and the versions—LXX., Vulg., and Cbaldee—all agree to read in the Hebrew text, lo “not,” for lo “to him,” that is, for a vau an aleph must be substituted.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:2
Verse 2. My father will do nothing] Jonathan thought that his father could have no evil design against David, because of the oath which he had sworn to himself 1 Samuel 19:6; and at any rate, that he would do nothing against David without informing him.
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 20:2
2. nothing either great or small] i.e. absolutely nothing. Cp. 1 Samuel 22:15, 1 Samuel 25:36. shew it me] Lit. “uncover mine ear,” and so in 1 Samuel 20:12. See on 1 Samuel 9:15. it is not so] Bearing in mind Saul’s oath (1 Samuel 19:6), and attributing his recent violence to temporary madness, Jonathan refuses to believe that his father has any deliberate design against David’s life.
Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 20:2
It is not so - Jonathan’s unwillingness to believe evil of his father is one of the many admirable traits in his character.
Sermons on 1 Samuel 20:2
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Call to Leadership by Stephen Olford | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the message preached at the Keswick convention, which is centered around three key words: victory, purity, and unity. The speaker highlights |
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The Three Prayers (Part 2) by Ron Bailey | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the purpose behind our actions. He explains that the word "so that" or "in order that" signifies two ideas in |
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The Letter S by Walter Wilson | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being close to God and having a personal relationship with Him. They use the analogy of sheep and a shepherd to illustrate |
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The Bible: Inspired of God by Lewis Sperry Chafer | Lewis Sperry Chafer emphasizes the divine nature of the Bible as God's message to humanity, highlighting the unique inspiration of the Scriptures where human authors were directed |
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The World by Thomas Bradbury | Thomas Bradbury preaches on the profound love of God as demonstrated in John 3:16, emphasizing the necessity of being born again to understand divine truth and experience salvation |
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Show Us the Father by H.J. Vine | H.J. Vine preaches about the profound revelation of the Father through Jesus Christ, emphasizing that seeing Jesus is seeing the Father, and knowing Jesus is knowing the Father. Th |
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Fellowship Between Christ and His Church in Testimony by T. Austin-Sparks | T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound fellowship between Christ and His Church, illustrating how the Divine nature was manifested in Christ and continues through His Body, the C |