Old Testament
1 Samuel 20:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And never cut off your kindness from my family — not even after the LORD has wiped out every one of your enemies from the face of the earth."
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But also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever: no, not when the LORD hath cut off the enemies of David every one from the face of the earth.
What 1 Samuel 20:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jonathan is asking David to promise that he will always show kindness to Jonathan's family, even after David's enemies are defeated. This request highlights the importance of loyalty and compassion in relationships. Jonathan understands that power can change dynamics, but he wants to ensure that kindness remains a constant. He is aware that David will become king and that their friendship should not be forgotten. This moment reflects deep trust and the hope that love and loyalty will endure beyond circumstances. Jonathan's plea is a reminder that our actions can have lasting impacts on others, especially those we care about. It encourages us to think about how we treat others, even when we are in positions of strength. Ultimately, it’s about maintaining connections and showing grace, regardless of the situation. This verse teaches us that kindness should be a priority, not just a response to favorable conditions, but a commitment to uphold even when times change.
How to apply 1 Samuel 20:15 to your life
Consider how you can show kindness to those around you, especially in times of change. Make a commitment to support your friends and family, regardless of your circumstances. Remember that your actions can create a lasting legacy of love and loyalty in your relationships. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life. Be intentional about maintaining those connections, even when life gets busy or challenging.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from David's story: Jonathan's Arrows (1 Samuel 20:1–42)
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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.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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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 20:15 mean?
1 Samuel 20:15 captures Jonathan's request to David to always show kindness to his family, even after David's enemies are defeated. This highlights the themes of loyalty and the enduring nature of true friendship.
What is the meaning of kindness in 1 Samuel 20:15?
In this verse, kindness refers to the commitment to support and care for Jonathan's family, emphasizing that true loyalty should persist regardless of changing circumstances or power dynamics.
How does 1 Samuel 20:15 relate to friendship?
1 Samuel 20:15 illustrates the depth of Jonathan and David's friendship, showing that true friends remain committed to each other and their families, even when situations change.
What lesson can we learn from 1 Samuel 20:15?
The lesson from this verse is to prioritize kindness and loyalty in our relationships, ensuring that our actions reflect love and support, regardless of our circumstances.
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