שמואל א, פרק כ׳, פסוק י״ב

Jonathan makes a profound commitment to his close friend, pledging absolute loyalty and promising to uncover King Saul's true intentions. To cement this promise, he invokes the name of God, which is universally understood as a severe and binding oath. Bound by this oath, Jonathan commits to conducting a thorough and deep investigation into his father's attitude toward David [מצודת ציון].

The timing of this inquiry requires careful calculation. Since the following day marks the new moon festival, the king might not immediately question David's absence. Consequently, the investigation might take until the third day to yield clear results [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. Another perspective suggests a deliberate strategy where Jonathan plans to wait through the first day to see if the king brings up David independently. If the king remains silent, Jonathan will actively initiate the conversation on the third day [מלבי״ם]. A complementary view simply notes that the fact-finding will occur either the very next day at the same hour, or at the latest by the third day [רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Once the king's motives are clear, Jonathan outlines his plan for communication. Should he discover that his father harbors positive intentions, he promises to relay this information instantly. He frames this promise as a rhetorical question, assuring David that he would undoubtedly send the good news right away [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. He emphasizes that this update will happen immediately, without the slightest delay [מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Furthermore, the specific choice to send a message, rather than deliver it personally, reveals a practical calculation. If the news is good, Jonathan can safely rely on a messenger, as there is no danger if the communication is discovered. This stands in sharp contrast to a scenario involving bad news, which would require Jonathan to come in person to warn his friend directly [מלבי״ם].