Old Testament
1 Samuel 20:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then I'll send a boy to go find the arrows. If I call out to him, 'Look, the arrows are on this side of you — grab them!' — then come out, because as surely as the LORD lives, you are safe and there's no danger.
Compare translations
And, behold, I will send a lad, saying, Go, find out the arrows. If I expressly say unto the lad, Behold, the arrows are on this side of thee, take them; then come thou: for there is peace to thee, and no hurt; as the LORD liveth.
What 1 Samuel 20:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Jonathan is devising a secret plan to communicate with David. He will send a boy to retrieve arrows, using this as a signal. If Jonathan calls out that the arrows are on David's side, it means David is safe. This shows Jonathan's loyalty and care for his friend. The phrase 'as surely as the LORD lives' emphasizes the seriousness of the message. It’s a way of assuring David that he is not in danger. This plan reflects the deep bond of friendship and trust between them. Jonathan is willing to risk his own safety to protect David, demonstrating true friendship. Their connection is a reminder of how important it is to have people in our lives who look out for us, especially in difficult times. This moment captures the essence of loyalty and the lengths friends will go to for each other, even in the face of danger. It’s a powerful example of how love and friendship can guide our actions and decisions in life, reminding us of the importance of support and trust.
How to apply 1 Samuel 20:21 to your life
Consider the friends in your life who support you. How can you show them the same loyalty and care that Jonathan showed David? Make an effort to communicate openly and be there for each other, especially during tough times. True friendship is about looking out for one another and being a safe haven in chaos. Cherish those bonds and nurture them daily.
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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The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying 1 Samuel 20:21
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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 20:21 mean?
1 Samuel 20:21 describes a secret signal between Jonathan and David. Jonathan plans to send a boy to find arrows, and if he calls out that the arrows are on David's side, it means David is safe from danger.
What is the significance of the arrows in 1 Samuel 20:21?
The arrows in 1 Samuel 20:21 serve as a coded message between Jonathan and David. They symbolize Jonathan's loyalty and the lengths he will go to protect his friend from harm.
What does 'as surely as the LORD lives' mean in this verse?
The phrase 'as surely as the LORD lives' emphasizes the seriousness and truth of Jonathan's message. It assures David that he is safe and that Jonathan is committed to protecting him.
How does 1 Samuel 20:21 reflect themes of friendship and loyalty?
1 Samuel 20:21 highlights the bond of friendship and loyalty through Jonathan's willingness to risk his safety for David. It demonstrates the importance of having trustworthy friends who look out for each other.
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