Old Testament
1 Samuel 20:38
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then Jonathan yelled, "Hurry! Go fast! Don't stop!" The boy picked up the arrows and brought them back to his master.
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And Jonathan cried after the lad, Make speed, haste, stay not. And Jonathan’s lad gathered up the arrows, and came to his master.
What 1 Samuel 20:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Jonathan is signaling to his friend David without revealing their secret plan. His urgent call to the boy to hurry and not stop shows the tension of the situation. Jonathan knows that their friendship is at risk due to King Saul's jealousy. The arrows symbolize their communication, and the boy's quick action reflects loyalty and trust. This scene highlights the importance of friendship and the lengths one will go to protect a loved one. Jonathan's words are not just commands; they carry the weight of their bond and the danger surrounding them. The urgency in his voice emphasizes the seriousness of their circumstances, reminding us that sometimes we must act quickly to safeguard what we cherish. This moment encapsulates the struggle between loyalty to family and loyalty to friends, a theme that resonates deeply in our lives today. It teaches us about the courage it takes to stand by those we care about, even in the face of danger or disapproval from others.
How to apply 1 Samuel 20:38 to your life
In your own life, consider the friendships that matter most to you. Are there moments when you need to act quickly to support a friend? Remember that loyalty can sometimes require courage, and being there for someone can make all the difference in their life. Don't hesitate to show your support when it counts the most. Your actions can strengthen those bonds and create lasting memories together.
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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Keep studying 1 Samuel 20:38
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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 is the significance of Jonathan's call to the boy in 1 Samuel 20:38?
Jonathan's urgent call to the boy to hurry and not stop is significant as it symbolizes the tension and danger surrounding his friendship with David. It serves as a covert signal, indicating that their secret plan is in jeopardy due to King Saul's jealousy. This moment highlights the lengths Jonathan is willing to go to protect David, emphasizing themes of loyalty and the importance of communication in times of crisis.
How does 1 Samuel 20:38 illustrate the theme of friendship?
In 1 Samuel 20:38, the interaction between Jonathan and the boy reflects the deep bond of friendship between Jonathan and David. Jonathan's urgency in sending the boy to retrieve the arrows symbolizes his commitment to safeguarding David's life. This moment underscores the idea that true friendship often requires courage and quick action, especially when facing external threats, showcasing the lengths one will go to for a loved one.
What can we learn about loyalty from 1 Samuel 20:38?
1 Samuel 20:38 teaches us that loyalty can sometimes demand swift action and courage. Jonathan's call to the boy to hurry illustrates the urgency of the situation and the risks involved in standing by a friend. This verse encourages us to reflect on our own relationships and consider how we can demonstrate loyalty, especially in challenging circumstances, reminding us that being there for someone can have a profound impact.
Why are the arrows important in this passage?
The arrows in 1 Samuel 20:38 serve as a crucial symbol of communication between Jonathan and David. They represent the covert method by which Jonathan conveys information about the danger David faces. The act of the boy gathering the arrows signifies loyalty and trust, reinforcing the idea that even simple actions can carry significant meaning in relationships, especially in times of peril.
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