שמואל א, פרק כ״ג, פסוק י״ח

Deep in the wilderness, a defining moment of loyalty unfolds between two friends, giving a hunted future king the courage to stay hidden despite the constant threat of capture. The gathering centers on the renewal and reinforcement of the bond between David and Jonathan. By reaffirming their pact, they secure their mutual commitments, agreements, and deep affection for one another [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

This renewed agreement carries greater spiritual importance. The primary approach among commentators is that, unlike their first private pact, this covenant is formalized in the presence of the Urim and Thummim and Abiathar the Priest [מלבי״ם, מצודת דוד, רד״ק]. Alternatively, the divine presence in this context signifies that God Himself acts as the ultimate witness to their enduring promise [רד״ק].

Strengthened by Jonathan's promises and their renewed pact, David changes his strategy. Instead of leaving the area as he originally planned, he decides to stay hidden within the forest [מלבי״ם]. His choice to remain highlights his complete faith in Jonathan. Even though Jonathan now clearly knows that the kingship will eventually be taken from him and given to David, David trusts him completely, confident that his friend will never reveal his location to Saul [רלב״ג].

This trust proves well-founded, as Saul remains entirely unaware of David's whereabouts until the people of Ziph later betray him [מלבי״ם]. The encounter concludes with Jonathan departing and going on his way [רד״ק], leaving David secure in his hidden refuge.