שמואל א, פרק כ״ג, פסוק ט״ז

During a desperate period of flight and evasion, a moment of profound loyalty unfolds. Through his connections with David’s men, Jonathan discovers the exact location of the secluded hiding place. Arriving not just as the king’s son but as a devoted ally [ביאור שטיינזלץ], his presence alone provides such reassurance that David decides to remain in the woods rather than flee further [מלבי"ם].

The purpose of this secret meeting is to offer deep emotional and spiritual support. Jonathan encourages David's spirit, urging him to keep his heart strong and rely entirely on God [מצודת דוד]. At the same time, this gathering serves to renew the powerful covenant of friendship they had formed in the past [רש"י].

The strength Jonathan provides is specifically rooted in faith. The primary approach among commentators is that Jonathan instills a profound sense of confidence in David, assuring him that he has nothing to fear from mortal men. God is with him, and through His direct protection, He will surely save David from his enemies [מלבי"ם, מצודת דוד]. To reinforce this, Jonathan reminds David of the explicit prophetic promise that he is destined to rule over Israel, which guarantees that Saul will never be able to harm him [רד"ק].

This spiritual encouragement carries even deeper layers of meaning related to open divine intervention and ancient traditions. Jonathan brings up past events, reminding David of how Ahimelech the priest successfully inquired of God on his behalf, proving that God actively answers David and guides his path. Moving to an even deeper level, Jonathan connects David’s future reign directly to the Divine Presence. Drawing on a well-known tradition that the eternal kingship would emerge specifically from the tribe of Judah—in stark contrast to Saul’s temporary rule—Jonathan points to David’s miraculous military victories. These successes serve as living proof that David is indeed the chosen king. By reminding him that his royal destiny is bound directly to God Himself, Jonathan assures David that God will never abandon him [אלשיך].