שמואל א, פרק כ׳, פסוק כ״ג

The final moments before David and Jonathan part ways serve to cement their deep loyalty, ensuring that physical distance will never break their bond. The primary approach among commentators is that their parting words center on the covenant they forged together. Jonathan asks David to carry the memory of this promise with him, even if he is forced to flee and remain far away [מצודת דוד]. Because their agreement is already firmly established, David does not need to risk his life by trying to meet with Jonathan again while on the run [מלבי״ם].

Since their meeting takes place in total secrecy without any human witnesses, Jonathan declares that God Himself will stand as the witness to their agreement [רש״י, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Having God serve as the ultimate guarantor ensures that their pact will endure forever [רד״ק].

This solemn declaration also serves to calm a hidden fear David might have held. He could easily worry that King Saul might force Jonathan to swear an oath revealing David's location. Such a demand would force Jonathan to choose between the commandment to honor his father and his loyalty to his friend. By invoking God, Jonathan assures David that he has nothing to fear. The prohibition against murder, or even assisting in a murder, completely overrides the duty to honor a parent. Just as a son must refuse a father's order to break the Sabbath, Jonathan will absolutely refuse to obey Saul if it puts David's life in danger [אהבת יהונתן].