שמואל א, פרק י״ח, פסוק ד׳

The act of a royal heir handing over his personal garments and weapons is far more than a simple material gift. It is a profound symbolic gesture of love, loyalty, and a shared destiny. Jonathan willingly and eagerly takes off his own coat, a highly significant and honorable piece of clothing, to give it to David. He then proceeds to hand over the rest of his uniform, ultimately parting with even his personal sword [מצודת ציון]. The deliberate and active nature of this removal highlights the immense love and deep desire driving Jonathan's actions [רד״ק].

This remarkable surrender of personal items carries two complementary meanings. On a personal level, the transfer of his clothing serves as a powerful sign that the two men are now united in a binding covenant [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. On a national and political level, it stands as a clear declaration of royal succession. By handing over his personal and symbolic equipment, Jonathan openly acknowledges that David is destined to rule and will eventually take possession of all that currently belongs to the prince [מלבי״ם].