1 Samuel 20:27

1 Samuel 20:27 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

But on the day after the New Moon, the second day, David’s place was still empty, and Saul asked his son Jonathan, “Why hasn’t the son of Jesse come to the meal either yesterday or today?”

King James Version KJV

And it came to pass on the morrow, which was the second day of the month, that David’s place was empty: and Saul said unto Jonathan his son, Wherefore cometh not the son of Jesse to meat, neither yesterday, nor to day?

American Standard Version ASV

And it came to pass on the morrow after the new moon, which was the second day, that David’s place was empty: and Saul said unto Jonathan his son, Wherefore cometh not the son of Jesse to meat, neither yesterday, nor to-day?

Bible in Basic English BBE

And on the day after the new moon, that is, the second day, there was still no one in David's seat: and Saul said to his son Jonathan, Why has the son of Jesse not come to the feast yesterday or today?

Free Bible Version FBV

But the second day, the day after the New Moon, David's place was still empty. Saul asked his son Jonathan, “Why hasn't the son of Jesse come to dinner either yesterday or today?”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

But on the morowe which was the second day of the moneth, Dauids place was emptie againe: and Saul sayde vnto Ionathan his sonne, Wherefore commeth not the sonne of Ishai to meate, neither yesterday nor to day?

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And it cometh to pass on the second morrow of the new moon, that David's place is looked after, and Saul saith unto Jonathan his son, 'Wherefore hath the son of Jesse not come in, either yesterday or to-day, unto the food?'

World English Bible WEB

On the next day after the new moon, the second day, David’s place was empty. Saul said to Jonathan his son, “Why didn’t the son of Jesse come to eat, either yesterday, or today?”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And it came to pass on the morrow, which was the second day of the month, that David's place was empty: and Saul said to Jonathan his son, Why cometh not the son of Jesse to eat, neither yesterday, nor to-day?

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And when the second day after the new moon was come, David’s place appeared empty again. And Saul said to Jonathan his son: Why cometh not the son of Isai to meat neither yesterday nor today?

Translation for Translators T4T

But the next day, when David was not sitting at the place where he usually sat, Saul asked Jonathan, “Why has that son of Jesse not been here to eat with us yesterday and today?”

Plain English Version PEV

The next day, David’s chair was still empty. So Saul asked Jonathan, “Why is David not here? And he was not here yesterday.”

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 20:27

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 20:27 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יְהִ֗י מִֽ/מָּחֳרַ֤ת הַ/חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙ הַ/שֵּׁנִ֔י וַ/יִּפָּקֵ֖ד מְק֣וֹם דָּוִ֑ד וַ/יֹּ֤אמֶר שָׁאוּל֙ אֶל יְהוֹנָתָ֣ן בְּנ֔/וֹ מַדּ֜וּעַ לֹא בָ֧א בֶן יִשַׁ֛י גַּם תְּמ֥וֹל גַּם הַ/יּ֖וֹם אֶל הַ/לָּֽחֶם

וַ/יְהִ֗י hâyâh H1961 to be Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

מִֽ/מָּחֳרַ֤ת mochŏrâth H4283 morrow Prep | N-fs

הַ/חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙ chôdesh H2320 month Art | N-ms

הַ/שֵּׁנִ֔י shênîy H8145 second Art | Adj

וַ/יִּפָּקֵ֖ד pâqad H6485 to reckon Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3ms

מְק֣וֹם mâqôwm H4725 place N-ms

דָּוִ֑ד Dâvid H1732 David N-proper

וַ/יֹּ֤אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

שָׁאוּל֙ Shâʼûwl H7586 Shaul N-proper

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

יְהוֹנָתָ֣ן Yᵉhôwnâthân H3083 Jonathan N-proper

בְּנ֔/וֹ bên H1121 son N-ms | Suff

מַדּ֜וּעַ maddûwaʻ H4069 why? Part

לֹא lôʼ H3808 not Part

בָ֧א bôwʼ H935 Lebo V-Qal-Perf-3ms

בֶן bên H1121 son N-ms

יִשַׁ֛י Yishay H3448 Jesse N-proper

גַּם gam H1571 also DirObjM

תְּמ֥וֹל tᵉmôwl H8543 yesterday Adv

גַּם gam H1571 also DirObjM

הַ/יּ֖וֹם yôwm H3117 day Art | N-ms

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

הַ/לָּֽחֶם lechem H3899 food Art | N-cs

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 20:27

וַ/יְהִ֗י hâyâh H1961 "to be" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone

Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.

מִֽ/מָּחֳרַ֤ת mochŏrâth H4283 "morrow" Prep | N-fs

This word means tomorrow or the next day, referring to a future time. It appears in several places in the Bible, including Genesis 30:33 and Exodus 16:23, where it is used to make promises or give instructions for the next day.

Definition: the morrow, the day after

Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: morrow, next day. See also: Genesis 19:34; Judges 6:38; Jeremiah 20:3.

הַ/חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙ chôdesh H2320 "month" Art | N-ms

The Hebrew term for month, specifically referring to the new moon and the lunar cycle, as described in the book of Exodus and the festivals of Israel. It marks the beginning of a new month in the Hebrew calendar.

Definition: : month 1) the new moon, month, monthly 1a) the first day of the month 1b) the lunar month

Usage: Occurs in 224 OT verses. KJV: month(-ly), new moon. See also: Genesis 7:11; 1 Chronicles 3:4; Psalms 81:4.

הַ/שֵּׁנִ֔י shênîy H8145 "second" Art | Adj

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means second or again, like when Moses went up Mount Sinai a second time in Exodus 24:15-18. It can also mean another or something distinct.

Definition: 1) second 1a) second (the ordinal number) 1b) again (a second time) 1c) another, other (something as distinct from something else)

Usage: Occurs in 152 OT verses. KJV: again, either (of them), (an-) other, second (time). See also: Genesis 1:8; 1 Kings 6:1; Isaiah 11:11.

וַ/יִּפָּקֵ֖ד pâqad H6485 "to reckon" Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This word means to visit or oversee, and can imply a range of actions, from friendly to hostile. It is used in various contexts, including appointing, avenging, or delivering something into someone's care. The KJV translates it in many ways, including appoint, avenge, or commit.

Definition: : list/count 1) to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pay attention to, observe 1a2) to attend to 1a3) to seek, look about for 1a4) to seek in vain, need, miss, lack 1a5) to visit 1a6) to visit upon, punish 1a7) to pass in review, muster, number 1a8) to appoint, assign, lay upon as a charge, deposit 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be sought, be needed, be missed, be lacking 1b2) to be visited 1b3) to be visited upon 1b4) to be appointed 1b5) to be watched over 1c) (Piel) to muster, call up 1d) (Pual) to be passed in review, be caused to miss, be called, be called to account 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to set over, make overseer, appoint an overseer 1e2) to commit, entrust, commit for care, deposit 1f) (Hophal) 1f1) to be visited 1f2) to be deposited 1f3) to be made overseer, be entrusted 1g) (Hithpael) numbered 1h) (Hothpael) numbered

Usage: Occurs in 269 OT verses. KJV: appoint, [idiom] at all, avenge, bestow, (appoint to have the, give a) charge, commit, count, deliver to keep, be empty, enjoin, go see, hurt, do judgment, lack, lay up, look, make, [idiom] by any means, miss, number, officer, (make) overseer, have (the) oversight, punish, reckon, (call to) remember(-brance), set (over), sum, [idiom] surely, visit, want. See also: Genesis 21:1; Numbers 26:47; Psalms 8:5.

מְק֣וֹם mâqôwm H4725 "place" N-ms

Maqom means a place or location, like a city or a region. It can also refer to a condition of the body or mind. This term is used to describe a wide range of locations and situations.

Definition: 1) standing place, place 1a) standing place, station, post, office 1b) place, place of human abode 1c) city, land, region 1d) place, locality, spot 1e) space, room, distance 1f) region, quarter, direction 1g) give place to, instead of

Usage: Occurs in 379 OT verses. KJV: country, [idiom] home, [idiom] open, place, room, space, [idiom] whither(-soever). See also: Genesis 1:9; Deuteronomy 12:3; 1 Kings 20:24.

דָּוִ֑ד Dâvid H1732 "David" N-proper

David was the youngest son of Jesse and a king of Judah, first mentioned in Ruth 4:17, and an ancestor of Jesus.

Definition: A king of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at Rut.4.17; son of: Jesse (H3448) and Nahash (H5176I); brother of: Eliab (H0446I), Abinadab (H0041I), Shimeah (H8093), Zeruiah (H6870), Abigail (H0026H)(?), Nethanel (H5417H), Raddai (H7288), Ozem (H0684) and Elihu (H0453J); married to Michal (H4324), Abigail (H0026), Ahinoam (H0293H), Maacah (H4601I), Haggith (H2294), Abital (H0037), Eglah (H5698) and Bathsheba (H1339); father of: Amnon (H0550), Chileab (H3609), Absalom (H0053), Adonijah (H0138), Shephatiah (H8203), Ithream (H3507), Shammua (H8051H), Shobab (H7727), Nathan (H5416), Solomon (H8010), Ibhar (H2984), Elishua (H0474), Nepheg (H5298H), Japhia (H3309I), Elishama (H0476H), Eliada (H0450), Eliphelet (H0467), Tamar (H8559H), Elpelet (H0467I), Nogah (H5052) and Jerimoth (H3406N) Also named: Daueid, Dauid, Dabid (Δαυείδ, Δαυίδ, Δαβίδ "David" G1138) § David = "beloved" youngest son of Jesse and second king of Israel

Usage: Occurs in 912 OT verses. KJV: David. See also: Ruth 4:17; 1 Samuel 20:41; 1 Samuel 27:9.

וַ/יֹּ֤אמֶר 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.

שָׁאוּל֙ Shâʼûwl H7586 "Shaul" N-proper

Shaul is a personal name meaning desired, given to several individuals in the Bible, including a Benjamite who became the first king of Israel and a Levite living during the time of the Divided Monarchy. He is mentioned in 1 Chronicles and 1 Samuel.

Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ch.6.24; son of: Uzziah (H5818H); father of: Elkanah (H0511I); also called Joel at 1Ch.6.36; Also named: yo.el (יוֹאֵל "Joel" H3100U) § Saul or Shaul = "desired" 1) a Benjamite, son of Kish, and the 1st king of Israel 2) an early king of Edom and a successor of Samlah 3) a son of Simeon 4) a Levite, son of Uzziah

Usage: Occurs in 335 OT verses. KJV: Saul, Shaul. See also: Genesis 36:37; 1 Samuel 16:22; 1 Samuel 24:5.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

יְהוֹנָתָ֣ן Yᵉhôwnâthân H3083 "Jonathan" N-proper

Jehonathan was a son of King Saul and a friend of David, meaning 'Jehovah has given'. He was also known as Jonathan.

Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.13.3; son of: Shimeah (H8093); also called Jonathan at 2Sa.21.21; 1x27.32; Another name of yo.na.dav (יוֹנָדָב "Jonadab" H3122G) § Jonathan or Jehonathan = "Jehovah has given" 1) a son of king Saul and a friend of David 2) a son of the high priest Abiathar and the last descendant of Eli of whom we hear 3) a nephew of David who like David slew a giant of Gath 4) an uncle of David 5) one of David's mighty warriors 6) one of David's treasurers 7) a scribe in the time of Jeremiah 8) a Levite and father of Zechariah, a priest who blew the trumpet at the dedication of the wall 9) a son or descendant of Gershom, the son of Moses, and a priest to the tribe of Dan 10) a son of Kareah and a brother of Johanan; a Judaite captain after the fall of Jerusalem 11) another Judaite father of Peleth 12) father of Ebed in the time of Ezra 13) son of Asahel in the time of Ezra 14) a priest of the family of Melicu in the time of Nehemiah 15) son of Joiada and his successor to the high priesthood in the time of Nehemiah

Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: Jonathan. Compare H3129 (יוֹנָתָן). See also: 1 Samuel 14:6; 1 Samuel 23:18; Jeremiah 37:15.

בְּנ֔/וֹ bên H1121 "son" N-ms | Suff

In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.

Definition: : child/son

Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.

מַדּ֜וּעַ maddûwaʻ H4069 "why?" 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.

לֹא 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.

בָ֧א bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

בֶן bên H1121 "son" N-ms

Definition: : child/son

יִשַׁ֛י Yishay H3448 "Jesse" N-proper

Jesse was the father of King David and a member of the tribe of Judah, and his name means 'I possess', showing his importance in the family and community.

Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at Rut.4.17; son of: Obed (H5744); father of: David (H1732), Eliab (H0446I), Abinadab (H0041I), Shimeah (H8093), Nethanel (H5417H), Raddai (H7288), Ozem (H0684), Zeruiah (H6870), Abigail (H0026H)(?) and Elihu (H0453J) Also named: Iessai (Ἰεσσαί "Jesse" G2421) § Jesse = "I possess" son of Boaz and the father of king David

Usage: Occurs in 39 OT verses. KJV: Jesse. See also: Ruth 4:17; 1 Samuel 20:30; Psalms 72:20.

גַּם gam H1571 "also" DirObjM

Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.

Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike

Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.

תְּמ֥וֹל tᵉmôwl H8543 "yesterday" Adv

This Hebrew word means yesterday or a short time ago, like in Genesis when God reminds the Israelites of what happened the day before. It can also mean recently or formerly, as in the events of the past. It appears in various Bible verses as beforetime or heretofore.

Definition: 1) before, before that time, beforetime, heretofore, of late, of old, these days, time(s) past, yesterday, day before yesterday, recently, formerly 1a) yesterday 1a1) recently, formerly (usual usage) (fig) 1b) as formerly, so more recently 1c) from yesterday, already

Usage: Occurs in 22 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] before (-time), [phrase] these (three) days, [phrase] heretofore, [phrase] time past, yesterday. See also: Genesis 31:2; Joshua 3:4; Job 8:9.

גַּם gam H1571 "also" DirObjM

Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.

הַ/יּ֖וֹם yôwm H3117 "day" Art | N-ms

The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow

Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

הַ/לָּֽחֶם lechem H3899 "food" Art | N-cs

This Hebrew word refers to food, especially bread or grain. It's used throughout the Bible to describe meals, sacrifices, and daily life, highlighting the importance of food in ancient Israelite culture.

Definition: : food(eating) 1) bread, food, grain 1a) bread 1a1) bread 1a2) bread-corn 1b) food (in general)

Usage: Occurs in 277 OT verses. KJV: (shew-) bread, [idiom] eat, food, fruit, loaf, meat, victuals. See also: Genesis 3:19; 1 Samuel 20:34; Psalms 14:4.

Study Notes — 1 Samuel 20:27

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Context
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1 Samuel 20:27 Summary
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Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 20:27
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 20:27
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:27
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:27
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:27
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 20:27
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:27
Sermons on 1 Samuel 20:27

Context — Jonathan and David Renew Their Covenant

25He sat in his usual place by the wall, opposite Jonathan and beside Abner, but David’s place was empty. 26Saul said nothing that day because he thought, “Something has happened to David to make him ceremonially unclean—surely he is unclean.”

27But on the day after the New Moon, the second day, David’s place was still empty, and Saul asked his son Jonathan, “Why hasn’t the son of Jesse come to the meal either yesterday or today?”

28Jonathan answered, “David urgently requested my permission to go to Bethlehem, 29saying, ‘Please let me go, because our clan is holding a sacrifice in the city, and my brother has told me to be there. So now, if I have found favor in your eyes, please let me go and see my brothers.’ That is why he has not come to the king’s table.”

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	1 Peter 2:4	As you come to Him, the living stone, rejected by men but chosen and precious in God’s sight,
2	1 Samuel 19:15	But Saul sent the messengers back to see David and told them, “Bring him up to me in his bed so I can kill him.”
3	1 Samuel 18:11	and he hurled it, thinking, “I will pin David to the wall.” But David eluded him twice.
4	Isaiah 11:1–2	Then a shoot will spring up from the stump of Jesse, and a Branch from his roots will bear fruit. The Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him— the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and strength, the Spirit of knowledge and fear of the LORD.
5	1 Samuel 19:9–10	But as Saul was sitting in his house with his spear in his hand, a spirit of distress from the LORD came upon him. While David was playing the harp, Saul tried to pin him to the wall with his spear. But the spear struck the wall and David eluded him, ran away, and escaped that night.
6	1 Samuel 22:13–14	And Saul asked him, “Why have you and the son of Jesse conspired against me? You gave him bread and a sword and inquired of God for him so that he could rise up against me to lie in wait, as he is doing today.” Ahimelech answered the king, “Who among all your servants is as faithful as David, the king’s son-in-law, the captain of your bodyguard who is honored in your house?
7	1 Samuel 22:7–9	Then Saul said to his servants, “Listen, men of Benjamin! Is the son of Jesse giving all of you fields and vineyards and making you commanders of thousands or hundreds? Is that why all of you have conspired against me? Not one of you told me that my own son had made a covenant with the son of Jesse. Not one of you has shown concern for me or revealed to me that my son has stirred up my own servant to lie in wait against me, as is the case today.” But Doeg the Edomite, who had stationed himself with Saul’s servants, answered: “I saw the son of Jesse come to Ahimelech son of Ahitub at Nob.
8	1 Samuel 25:10	But Nabal asked them, “Who is David? Who is this son of Jesse? Many servants these days are breaking away from their masters.
9	Matthew 13:55	“Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t His mother’s name Mary, and aren’t His brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?

1 Samuel 20:27 Summary

This verse shows us that Saul was getting suspicious of David and was wondering why he wasn't at the special meal, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:27. Saul asked his son Jonathan, who was David's friend, to explain why David wasn't there, similar to how Jesus' disciples were questioned about Him in John 1:38. Jonathan came up with a good excuse to protect David, demonstrating the kind of loyalty and friendship that we can learn from, as seen in Proverbs 17:17 and John 15:13. This verse reminds us that our actions and attitudes can have a big impact on those around us, and we should strive to be loyal and trustworthy friends, as encouraged in 1 Corinthians 13:7 and Ephesians 4:32.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Saul ask Jonathan about David's absence?

Saul asked Jonathan about David's absence because he was concerned and possibly suspicious of David's loyalty, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:27, and he may have been looking for an opportunity to confront David about his perceived disloyalty, similar to what happened in 1 Samuel 18:8-9.

What was the significance of the New Moon in this context?

The New Moon was a significant event in the Israelite calendar, often marked by special sacrifices and gatherings, as mentioned in Numbers 28:11-15, and in this case, it may have been an occasion for the royal family to come together, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:25.

How did Jonathan respond to Saul's inquiry about David?

Jonathan responded to Saul's inquiry by providing a plausible explanation for David's absence, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:28-29, and he did so in a way that protected David and avoided arousing Saul's suspicion, demonstrating his loyalty and friendship towards David, similar to their covenant in 1 Samuel 18:3.

What can we learn from Saul's behavior in this verse?

We can learn from Saul's behavior that a leader's actions and attitudes can have a significant impact on those around them, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:27, and that jealousy and suspicion can lead to harmful consequences, as warned against in Proverbs 14:30 and 27:4.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways that I can demonstrate loyalty and friendship to those around me, just like Jonathan did for David?
How can I avoid letting jealousy and suspicion control my actions and attitudes, like Saul did in this verse?
What are some times when I have felt like an outcast or outsider, like David may have felt in this situation, and how can I learn to trust God in those times, as encouraged in Psalm 23:4 and Isaiah 41:10?
In what ways can I prioritize fellowship and community with others, like the Israelites did on the New Moon, and how can I make sure that my gatherings with others are centered on God, as commanded in Hebrews 10:24-25?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 20:27

And it came to pass on the morrow, [which was] the second [day] of the month,.... The Targum is, "and it was on the day after it, which was the intercalation of the second month;'' when the beginning

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 20:27

And it came to pass on the morrow, which was the second day of the month, that David's place was empty: and Saul said unto Jonathan his son, Wherefore cometh not the son of Jesse to meat, neither yesterday, nor to day?

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:27

Which was the second day of the month, or, on the morrow of the new moon, being the second day; either, 1. Of the three days appointed, ,19. Or, 2. Of the feast. Or, 3. Of the month. Saul said unto Jonathan, who was David’ s friend, and best knew his mind and his ways. He calls him the son of Jesse, in scorn and contempt, to note the meanness of his original; and as not deigning to call him by his proper name: see below, 25:10. Neither yesterday, nor to-day; for the uncleanness which came by some chance usually lasted but for one day. See Leviticus 11.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:27

1 Samuel 20:27 And it came to pass on the morrow, [which was] the second [day] of the month, that David’ s place was empty: and Saul said unto Jonathan his son, Wherefore cometh not the son of Jesse to meat, neither yesterday, nor to day?Ver. 27. Wherefore cometh not the son of Jesse to meat?] Wherefore should he, say, unless he were weary of his life, which was so lately sought for? But Saul thought, belike, that David would forget old injuries, and make as small account of them as himself who had done them. But what is the old saying in this case? “ Pulvere, qui laedit, scribit; sed marmore, laesus. ”

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:27

(27) On the morrow.—David’s continued absence on the second day of the feast awoke Saul’s suspicion, and he asked his son, who was sitting by him, what was the reason of his friend’s absence, aware that no accident connected with ceremonial defilement would keep him away two following days.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 20:27

18–42. This section is the Haphtarah for the New Moon when it falls on the first day of the week.

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:27

27. Wherefore cometh not the son of Jesse to meat — But how could Saul reasonably expect him to come after all his dark attempts upon his life?

Sermons on 1 Samuel 20:27

	Sermon	Description
	The Chief Cornerstone by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the preacher talks about the importance of humility and realizing that we don't amount to much in the eyes of God. He shares his experiences at camp meetings where
	A Chosen Foundation Generation by Willie Mullan	In this sermon, Peter emphasizes two important points. Firstly, he highlights that the chosen foundation for the church is Christ. He urges the saints to lay aside all malice and d
	(Pdf Book) God's Dwelling Place by Bakht Singh	Bakht Singh emphasizes the profound mystery of God's dwelling place, illustrating how believers, redeemed by Christ, are being gathered to form a habitation for God through the Spi
	My Heart Is Fixed by Hans R. Waldvogel	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of praising God and the importance of having a fixed heart. He shares a personal testimony of being healed through praising the Lo
	How Much Is Jesus Worth? by John Piper	In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about his experience with sharing his faith with a neighbor. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating the love of Christ and
	Spiritual Sacrifices That Are Acceptable to God by Brian Long	Brian Long emphasizes the significance of offering spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God, as outlined in 1 Peter 2. He explains that true worship involves coming to God w
	What Is a Christian 22 Christian Is a New Man by James K. Boswell	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the concept of being greater than others. He uses the example of a boy and an elephant named Jumbo to illustrate the difference between huma