Old Testament
1 Samuel 20:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
David asked, "But who will let me know if your father responds angrily?"
Compare translations
Then said David to Jonathan, Who shall tell me? or what if thy father answer thee roughly?
What 1 Samuel 20:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, David is expressing concern about the potential reaction of Jonathan's father, King Saul. David is worried that if Saul is angry, it could lead to dangerous consequences for him. He is seeking reassurance from Jonathan about how to gauge Saul's feelings. This question highlights David's vulnerability and the tension in his relationship with Saul. David's trust in Jonathan is evident as he relies on his friend to help him navigate this difficult situation. The uncertainty of Saul's response adds to the drama, showing how relationships can be complicated and fraught with fear. David's inquiry reflects a deep need for communication and understanding in times of conflict. It reminds us that knowing how others feel can be crucial in making decisions that affect our lives. David's situation is relatable; we often find ourselves in positions where we need to understand others' emotions to protect ourselves and our relationships. This moment captures the essence of friendship and the importance of being aware of the dynamics around us.
How to apply 1 Samuel 20:10 to your life
In your own life, consider how you communicate with friends during tough times. Are you open about your fears and uncertainties? Building trust and understanding can help you navigate conflicts more effectively. Don't hesitate to ask for clarity when you're unsure about someone's feelings or reactions. This can strengthen your relationships significantly and provide peace of mind in challenging situations.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Jonathan's Arrows (1 Samuel 20:1–42)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Samuel 20:10
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Samuel 20:10
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 20:10 mean?
1 Samuel 20:10 shows David's concern about King Saul's potential anger. David is asking Jonathan how he will know if Saul reacts negatively, highlighting the tension and danger in their situation.
What is the meaning of David's question in 1 Samuel 20:10?
David's question reflects his vulnerability and need for reassurance from Jonathan. He is worried about Saul's feelings and the possible consequences for himself, emphasizing the importance of communication in their friendship.
How does 1 Samuel 20:10 relate to friendship?
In 1 Samuel 20:10, David relies on Jonathan to understand Saul's feelings, showcasing the trust and support that can exist in true friendship during difficult times.
What themes are present in 1 Samuel 20:10?
Key themes in 1 Samuel 20:10 include friendship, communication, fear, trust, and conflict. The verse highlights the importance of understanding emotions in relationships.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.