שמואל א, פרק כ״ג, פסוק י״ז

In moments of deep crisis, relentless pursuit, and fear, the unique bond of friendship between David and Jonathan reaches its peak. Jonathan offers words of encouragement that go far beyond emotional comfort. They form a clear political and faithful declaration about the future of the monarchy in Israel and the guiding hand of God.

Jonathan promises that Saul will not manage to catch David [ביאור שטיינזלץ], simply because he does not know where David is hiding [מלבי״ם]. This assurance raises a philosophical question about the nature of free will: how can Jonathan guarantee that Saul will not harm David, given that human beings have the freedom to choose to do evil? The answer is that while God does not strip Saul of his free will to pursue and lay traps, He actively intervenes and watches over David to ensure he does not fall into them [אלשיך]. Furthermore, the suffering, wandering, and fear David currently experiences are not random. They serve as a merciful judgment that cleanses him of his sins, ultimately saving him from death [אלשיך].

Looking toward the future, Jonathan declares that David will inevitably rule over Israel. This destiny is both a fulfillment of the word of God [ביאור שטיינזלץ] and a result of the public's support [מלבי״ם]. Showing complete acceptance of this upcoming transfer of power, Jonathan expresses his desire to serve as second-in-command. He asks this out of a place of deep, genuine friendship, fully acknowledging that his own father's royal house will eventually be subordinate to David [רד״ק, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Finally, Jonathan reveals the hidden motive behind his father's actions, noting that Saul himself is aware of David's royal destiny. This awareness likely stems from the widespread rumors regarding David's anointing [רד״ק]. Commentators differ on how this internal knowledge psychologically affects Saul. One approach suggests that knowing David will ultimately succeed weakens Saul's resolve, fills him with fear, and prevents him from hunting David with his full strength [מלבי״ם, אלשיך]. Conversely, another perspective argues that precisely because Saul knows the truth in his heart, even without admitting it openly, his frustration only intensifies. In this view, his inner conflict fuels a deep anger that drives him to pursue David even more aggressively [ביאור שטיינזלץ].