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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Samuel 1:23 Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life, were not divided in death. They were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_samuel/1-23.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/20/10_2Sa_01_23.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Samuel 1:23 - David's Song for Saul and Jonathan" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life, were not divided in death. They were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_samuel/1-23.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_samuel/1-23.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_samuel/">2 Samuel</a> > <a href="/2_samuel/1.htm">Chapter 1</a> > Verse 23</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad3.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_samuel/1-22.htm" title="2 Samuel 1:22">◄</a> 2 Samuel 1:23 <a href="/2_samuel/1-24.htm" title="2 Samuel 1:24">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/1.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/2_samuel/1.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan— in life they were loved and admired, and in death they were not parted. They were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/2_samuel/1.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />How beloved and gracious were Saul and Jonathan! They were together in life and in death. They were swifter than eagles, stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_samuel/1.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />“Saul and Jonathan, beloved and lovely! In life and in death they were not divided; they were swifter than eagles; they were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/1.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life, were not divided in death. They were swifter than eagles; they were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_samuel/1.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan <i>were</i> lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided: they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_samuel/1.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />“Saul and Jonathan <i>were</i> beloved and pleasant in their lives, And in their death they were not divided; They were swifter than eagles, They were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_samuel/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />“Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life, And in their deaths they were not separated; They were swifter than eagles, They were mightier than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_samuel/1.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />&#8220Saul and Jonathan, beloved and pleasant in their life, And in their death they were not parted; They were swifter than eagles, They were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_samuel/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />“Saul and Jonathan, beloved and pleasant in their life, And in their death they were not parted; They were swifter than eagles, They were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_samuel/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, beloved and pleasant in their life, And in their death they were not separated; They were swifter than eagles, They were mightier than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_samuel/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />“Saul and Jonathan, beloved and lovely <i>and</i> friends in their lives, And in their death they were not separated; They were swifter than eagles, They were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_samuel/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, loved and delightful, they were not parted in life or in death. They were swifter than eagles, stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_samuel/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, loved and delightful, they were not parted in life or in death. They were swifter than eagles, stronger than lions. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_samuel/1.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives, And in their death they were not divided: They were swifter than eagles, They were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_samuel/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />It was easy to love Saul and Jonathan. Together in life, together in death, they were faster than eagles and stronger than lions. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_samuel/1.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided; they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_samuel/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan were loved and well-liked while they were living. They were not separated even when they died. They were swifter than eagles and stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_samuel/1.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />"Saul and Jonathan, so wonderful and dear; together in life, together in death; swifter than eagles, stronger than lions. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_samuel/1.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, loved and handsome in life, in death were not separated. Swifter than eagles they were, and more valiant than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_samuel/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life, were not divided in death. They were swifter than eagles; they were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_samuel/1.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan were greatly loved during their lives, and not even in their deaths were they separated. They were swifter than eagles, stronger than lions. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_samuel/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, beloved and lovely, not separated. Lovely in their life, and in their death they were not separated. They were swifter than eagles. They were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_samuel/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided: they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_samuel/1.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives. In their death, they were not divided. They were swifter than eagles. They were stronger than lions. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_samuel/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan! They are loved and pleasant in their lives, "" And in their death they have not been parted. They have been lighter than eagles, "" They have been mightier than lions!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_samuel/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Saul and Jonathan! They are loved and pleasant in their lives, And in their death they have not been parted. Than eagles they have been lighter, Than lions they have been mightier!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_samuel/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan beloved and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not separated: they were swift above eagles, they were strong above lions.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_samuel/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, lovely, and comely in their life, even in death they were not divided: they were swifter than eagles, stronger than lions. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_samuel/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, worthy to be loved, and stately in their life: even in death they were not divided. They were swifter than eagles, stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_samuel/1.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, beloved and dear, separated neither in life nor death, swifter than eagles, stronger than lions! <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_samuel/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, beloved and lovely! In life and in death they were not divided; they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_samuel/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided; they were swifter than eagles, stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/2_samuel/1.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />Shaul and Yonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not separated. They were swifter than eagles, and they were stronger than lions!<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/2_samuel/1.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, the lovely and the pleasant In their lives, even in their death they were not divided; They were swifter than eagles, They were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/2_samuel/1.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Saul and Jonathan, the beloved and the beautiful, were not divided: comely <i>were they</i> in their life, and in their death they were not divided: <i>they were</i> swifter than eagles, and they were stronger than lions.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_samuel/1-23.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_0ajZHUzMKw?start=210" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/1.htm">David's Song for Saul and Jonathan</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">22</span>From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan did not retreat, and the sword of Saul did not return empty. <span class="reftext">23</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/7586.htm" title="7586: šā·’ūl (N-proper-ms) -- Passive participle of sha'al; asked; Shaul, the name of an Edomite and two Israelites.">Saul</a> <a href="/hebrew/3083.htm" title="3083: wî·hō·w·nā·ṯān (Conj-w:: N-proper-ms) -- From Yhovah and nathan; Jehovah-given; Jehonathan, the name of four Israelites.">and Jonathan,</a> <a href="/hebrew/157.htm" title="157: han·ne·’ĕ·hā·ḇîm (Art:: V-Nifal-Prtcpl-mp) -- To love. Or raheb; a primitive root; to have affection for.">beloved</a> <a href="/hebrew/5273.htm" title="5273: wə·han·nə·‘î·mim (Conj-w, Art:: Adj-mp) -- Pleasant, delightful. From na'em; delightful.">and delightful</a> <a href="/hebrew/2416.htm" title="2416: bə·ḥay·yê·hem (Prep-b:: N-mpc:: 3mp) -- Alive, raw, fresh, strong, life. From chayah; alive; hence, raw; fresh, strong; also life, whether literally or figuratively.">in life,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">were not</a> <a href="/hebrew/6504.htm" title="6504: nip̄·rā·ḏū (V-Nifal-Perf-3cp) -- To divide. A primitive root; to break through, i.e. Spread or separate.">divided</a> <a href="/hebrew/4194.htm" title="4194: ū·ḇə·mō·w·ṯām (Conj-w, Prep-b:: N-msc:: 3mp) -- Death. From muwth; death; concretely, the dead, their place or state; figuratively, pestilence, ruin.">in death.</a> <a href="/hebrew/7043.htm" title="7043: qal·lū (V-Qal-Perf-3cp) -- To be slight, swift or trifling. A primitive root; to be light, literally Or figuratively.">They were swifter</a> <a href="/hebrew/5404.htm" title="5404: min·nə·šā·rîm (Prep-m:: N-mp) -- An eagle. From an unused root meaning to lacerate; the eagle.">than eagles,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1396.htm" title="1396: gā·ḇê·rū (V-Qal-Perf-3cp) -- To be strong, mighty. A primitive root; to be strong; by implication, to prevail, act insolently.">they were stronger</a> <a href="/hebrew/738.htm" title="738: mê·’ă·rā·yō·wṯ (Prep-m:: N-mp) -- A lion. Or earyeh; from 'arah; a lion.">than lions.</a> </span><span class="reftext">24</span>O daughters of Israel, weep for Saul, who clothed you in scarlet and luxury, who decked your garments with ornaments of gold.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/18-1.htm">1 Samuel 18:1-4</a></span><br />After David had finished speaking with Saul, the souls of Jonathan and David were knit together, and Jonathan loved him as himself. / And from that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return to his father’s house. / Then Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/20-17.htm">1 Samuel 20:17</a></span><br />And Jonathan had David reaffirm his vow out of love for him, for Jonathan loved David as he loved himself.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/14-47.htm">1 Samuel 14:47-48</a></span><br />After Saul had assumed the kingship over Israel, he fought against all his enemies on every side—the Moabites, the Ammonites, the Edomites, the kings of Zobah, and the Philistines. Wherever he turned, he routed them. / He fought valiantly and defeated the Amalekites, delivering Israel from the hands of its plunderers.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/31-1.htm">1 Samuel 31:1-6</a></span><br />Now the Philistines fought against Israel, and the men of Israel fled before them, and many fell slain on Mount Gilboa. / The Philistines hotly pursued Saul and his sons, and they killed Saul’s sons Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua. / When the battle intensified against Saul, the archers overtook him and wounded him critically. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/10-1.htm">1 Chronicles 10:1-6</a></span><br />Now the Philistines fought against Israel, and the men of Israel fled before them, and many fell slain on Mount Gilboa. / The Philistines followed hard after Saul and his sons, and they killed Saul’s sons Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua. / When the battle intensified against Saul, the archers overtook him and wounded him. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/19-4.htm">1 Samuel 19:4-5</a></span><br />Then Jonathan spoke well of David to his father Saul and said to him, “The king should not sin against his servant David; he has not sinned against you. In fact, his actions have been highly beneficial to you. / He took his life in his hands when he struck down the Philistine, and the LORD worked a great salvation for all Israel. You saw it and rejoiced, so why would you sin against innocent blood by killing David for no reason?”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/23-16.htm">1 Samuel 23:16-18</a></span><br />And Saul’s son Jonathan came to David in Horesh and strengthened his hand in God, / saying, “Do not be afraid, for my father Saul will never lay a hand on you. And you will be king over Israel, and I will be your second-in-command. Even my father Saul knows this is true.” / So the two of them made a covenant before the LORD. And David remained in Horesh, while Jonathan went home.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/31-11.htm">1 Samuel 31:11-13</a></span><br />When the people of Jabesh-gilead heard what the Philistines had done to Saul, / all their men of valor set out, journeyed all night, and retrieved the bodies of Saul and his sons from the wall of Beth-shan. When they arrived at Jabesh, they burned the bodies there. / Then they took their bones and buried them under the tamarisk tree in Jabesh, and they fasted seven days.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/14-52.htm">1 Samuel 14:52</a></span><br />And the war with the Philistines was fierce for all the days of Saul. So whenever he noticed any strong or brave man, Saul would enlist him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/18-7.htm">1 Samuel 18:7</a></span><br />And as the women danced, they sang out: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/20-42.htm">1 Samuel 20:42</a></span><br />And Jonathan said to David, “Go in peace, for the two of us have sworn in the name of the LORD, saying, ‘May the LORD be a witness between you and me, and between your descendants and mine forever.’” Then David got up and departed, and Jonathan went back into the city.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/24-16.htm">1 Samuel 24:16-22</a></span><br />When David had finished saying these things, Saul called back, “Is that your voice, David my son?” Then Saul wept aloud / and said to David, “You are more righteous than I, for you have rewarded me with good, though I have rewarded you with evil. / And you have declared this day how you have treated me well, for when the LORD delivered me into your hand, you did not kill me. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/26-21.htm">1 Samuel 26:21-25</a></span><br />Then Saul replied, “I have sinned. Come back, David my son. I will never harm you again, because today you considered my life precious. I have played the fool and have committed a grave error!” / “Here is the king’s spear,” David answered. “Let one of the young men come over and get it. / May the LORD repay every man for his righteousness and faithfulness. For the LORD delivered you into my hand today, but I would not extend my hand against the LORD’s anointed. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/28-19.htm">1 Samuel 28:19</a></span><br />Moreover, the LORD will deliver Israel with you into the hand of the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. And the LORD will deliver the army of Israel into the hand of the Philistines.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/9-2.htm">1 Samuel 9:2</a></span><br />And he had a son named Saul, choice and handsome, without equal among the Israelites—a head taller than any of the people.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided: they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.</p><p class="hdg">pleasant.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/18-1.htm">1 Samuel 18:1</a></b></br> And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/20-2.htm">1 Samuel 20:2</a></b></br> And he said unto him, God forbid; thou shalt not die: behold, my father will do nothing either great or small, but that he will shew it me: and why should my father hide this thing from me? it <i>is</i> not <i>so</i>.</p><p class="hdg">they were</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/31-1.htm">1 Samuel 31:1-5</a></b></br> Now the Philistines fought against Israel: and the men of Israel fled from before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa… </p><p class="hdg">swifter</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/2-18.htm">2 Samuel 2:18</a></b></br> And there were three sons of Zeruiah there, Joab, and Abishai, and Asahel: and Asahel <i>was as</i> light of foot as a wild roe.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/deuteronomy/28-49.htm">Deuteronomy 28:49</a></b></br> The LORD shall bring a nation against thee from far, from the end of the earth, <i>as swift</i> as the eagle flieth; a nation whose tongue thou shalt not understand;</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_chronicles/12-8.htm">1 Chronicles 12:8</a></b></br> And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David into the hold to the wilderness men of might, <i>and</i> men of war <i>fit</i> for the battle, that could handle shield and buckler, whose faces <i>were like</i> the faces of lions, and <i>were</i> as swift as the roes upon the mountains;</p><p class="hdg">stronger</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/23-20.htm">2 Samuel 23:20</a></b></br> And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man, of Kabzeel, who had done many acts, he slew two lionlike men of Moab: he went down also and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow:</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/judges/14-18.htm">Judges 14:18</a></b></br> And the men of the city said unto him on the seventh day before the sun went down, What <i>is</i> sweeter than honey? and what <i>is</i> stronger than a lion? And he said unto them, If ye had not plowed with my heifer, ye had not found out my riddle.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/30-30.htm">Proverbs 30:30</a></b></br> A lion <i>which is</i> strongest among beasts, and turneth not away for any;</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/deuteronomy/33-12.htm">Beloved</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-16.htm">Death</a> <a href="/judges/19-29.htm">Divided</a> <a href="/exodus/19-4.htm">Eagles</a> <a href="/1_samuel/2-21.htm">Gracious</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-22.htm">Jonathan</a> <a href="/1_samuel/18-28.htm">Loved</a> <a href="/1_samuel/16-12.htm">Lovely</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/11-23.htm">Mightier</a> <a href="/ruth/1-14.htm">Parted</a> <a href="/numbers/29-36.htm">Pleasant</a> <a href="/1_samuel/29-9.htm">Pleasing</a> <a href="/1_samuel/28-24.htm">Quickly</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-22.htm">Saul</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-50.htm">Stronger</a> <a href="/habakkuk/1-8.htm">Swifter</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/nehemiah/13-26.htm">Beloved</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-31.htm">Death</a> <a href="/1_kings/16-21.htm">Divided</a> <a href="/job/9-26.htm">Eagles</a> <a href="/2_samuel/12-22.htm">Gracious</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-25.htm">Jonathan</a> <a href="/2_samuel/13-1.htm">Loved</a> <a href="/esther/1-11.htm">Lovely</a> <a href="/2_samuel/22-18.htm">Mightier</a> <a href="/2_samuel/13-31.htm">Parted</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-26.htm">Pleasant</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-36.htm">Pleasing</a> <a href="/2_samuel/5-24.htm">Quickly</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-24.htm">Saul</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-1.htm">Stronger</a> <a href="/job/7-6.htm">Swifter</a><div class="vheading2">2 Samuel 1</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/1-1.htm">The Amalekite who accused himself of Saul's death is slain</a></span><br><span class="reftext">17. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/1-17.htm">David laments Saul and Jonathan with a song</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_samuel/1.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_samuel/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_samuel/1.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life</b><br>Saul and Jonathan, despite their complex relationship, were deeply loved by the people of Israel. Saul, as the first king of Israel, was initially chosen by God and anointed by the prophet Samuel. His reign began with promise, and he was beloved for his leadership in uniting the tribes of Israel. Jonathan, Saul's son, was known for his loyalty, bravery, and deep friendship with David, which is a profound example of covenantal love. Their lives were marked by moments of valor and leadership, making them beloved figures in Israel's history.<p><b>were not divided in death</b><br>Despite the tensions and conflicts that arose during their lives, particularly between Saul and David, Saul and Jonathan remained united in their deaths. They died together in battle against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa. This unity in death symbolizes the enduring bond between father and son, and it highlights the tragedy of their demise. Their deaths also marked a significant turning point in Israel's history, paving the way for David's eventual kingship.<p><b>They were swifter than eagles</b><br>This phrase emphasizes the agility and speed of Saul and Jonathan, qualities that were highly valued in ancient warfare. Eagles are often used in biblical literature to symbolize swiftness and strength. This metaphor highlights their prowess in battle and their ability to lead and protect Israel with great skill. It also reflects the high regard in which they were held as warriors.<p><b>they were stronger than lions</b><br>Lions are a symbol of strength and courage in the Bible. By comparing Saul and Jonathan to lions, the text underscores their bravery and might in battle. This imagery conveys their formidable presence on the battlefield and their role as protectors of Israel. The comparison to lions also connects to the broader biblical theme of God empowering leaders with strength and courage to fulfill His purposes.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/saul.htm">Saul</a></b><br>The first king of Israel, anointed by the prophet Samuel. Saul's reign was marked by initial success but later marred by disobedience to God, leading to his downfall.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/j/jonathan.htm">Jonathan</a></b><br>The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. Known for his loyalty and bravery, Jonathan played a significant role in supporting David despite his father's animosity towards David.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/d/david's_lament.htm">David's Lament</a></b><br>This verse is part of David's lamentation over the deaths of Saul and Jonathan. David expresses deep sorrow and admiration for both, despite Saul's pursuit of him.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/m/mount_gilboa.htm">Mount Gilboa</a></b><br>The location where Saul and Jonathan died in battle against the Philistines. This event marked a significant turning point in Israel's history.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_philistines.htm">The Philistines</a></b><br>A recurring enemy of Israel during the time of Saul and David. Their victory at Mount Gilboa led to the deaths of Saul and Jonathan.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_complexity_of_relationships.htm">The Complexity of Relationships</a></b><br>David's lament shows that relationships can be complex, involving love, loyalty, and conflict. Despite Saul's pursuit of David, David still honors him in death.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_value_of_friendship.htm">The Value of Friendship</a></b><br>Jonathan's friendship with David is a model of selfless love and loyalty. True friendship often involves sacrifice and standing by one another in difficult times.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/l/legacy_and_honor.htm">Legacy and Honor</a></b><br>How we remember and speak of others after their passing reflects our values. David's words about Saul and Jonathan teach us to honor the good in others, even amidst their flaws.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/strength_and_swiftness_in_god.htm">Strength and Swiftness in God</a></b><br>The imagery of eagles and lions can remind us of the spiritual strength and agility we can find in God, as echoed in other scriptures.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/u/unity_in_life_and_death.htm">Unity in Life and Death</a></b><br>Saul and Jonathan's unity in life and death can inspire us to seek unity and reconciliation in our relationships, valuing the bonds that transcend life's challenges.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_samuel_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Samuel 1</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_did_king_saul_die.htm">How did King Saul die? (1 Samuel 31:4-6 vs. 2 Samuel 1:8-10)</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_do_1_sam_31_4-5_and_2_sam_1_10_differ.htm">How can 1 Samuel 31:4-5 claim Saul died by falling on his own sword if 2 Samuel 1:10 says an Amalekite killed him?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_1_chr_10_4_and_2_sam_1_10.htm">How can 1 Chronicles 10's account that Saul died by falling on his own sword (1 Chronicles 10:4) be reconciled with 2 Samuel 1:10, where an Amalekite claims to have killed him?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_killed_saul__himself_or_amalekite.htm">Who killed Saul? Saul took his own sword and fell upon it.... Thus Saul died... (I Samuel 31:4-6) An Amalekite slew him (2 Samuel 1:1- 16)</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_samuel/1.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(23) <span class= "bld">Lovely and pleasant.</span>--This applies peculiarly to Jonathan, but also in a good degree to Saul in his earlier years and his better moments, which David chose at this moment to recall. It also applies truthfully to them both in their relations to each other.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_samuel/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 23.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Lovely and pleasant.</span> The words of the Authorized Version contain a beautiful antithesis, which, however, does not exist in the Hebrew, which celebrates the close union of father and son in life as well as in death. <p><span class="accented">"Saul and Jonathan, the lovely and pleasant,<br />Neither in their lives nor in their death were they divided."</span> Notwithstanding Saul's rash vow, Jonathan had ever been his father's faithful friend and companion, nor had his affection for David made him untrue to the ties of natural affection. And David generously commends his friend for thus acting. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_samuel/1-23.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">Saul</span><br /><span class="heb">שָׁא֣וּל</span> <span class="translit">(šā·’ūl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7586.htm">Strong's 7586: </a> </span><span class="str2">Saul -- first king of Israel, also an Edomite and two Israelites</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and Jonathan,</span><br /><span class="heb">וִיהוֹנָתָ֗ן</span> <span class="translit">(wî·hō·w·nā·ṯān)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3083.htm">Strong's 3083: </a> </span><span class="str2">Jonathan -- 'the LORD has given', the name of a number of Israelites</span><br /><br /><span class="word">beloved</span><br /><span class="heb">הַנֶּאֱהָבִ֤ים</span> <span class="translit">(han·ne·’ĕ·hā·ḇîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Verb - Nifal - Participle - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_157.htm">Strong's 157: </a> </span><span class="str2">To have affection f</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and delightful</span><br /><span class="heb">וְהַנְּעִימִם֙</span> <span class="translit">(wə·han·nə·‘î·mim)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw, Article | Adjective - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5273.htm">Strong's 5273: </a> </span><span class="str2">Pleasant, delightful</span><br /><br /><span class="word">in life,</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּחַיֵּיהֶ֔ם</span> <span class="translit">(bə·ḥay·yê·hem)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2416.htm">Strong's 2416: </a> </span><span class="str2">Alive, raw, fresh, strong, life</span><br /><br /><span class="word">were not</span><br /><span class="heb">לֹ֣א</span> <span class="translit">(lō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb - Negative particle<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> </span><span class="str2">Not, no</span><br /><br /><span class="word">divided</span><br /><span class="heb">נִפְרָ֑דוּ</span> <span class="translit">(nip̄·rā·ḏū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Nifal - Perfect - third person common plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6504.htm">Strong's 6504: </a> </span><span class="str2">To break through, spread, separate</span><br /><br /><span class="word">in death.</span><br /><span class="heb">וּבְמוֹתָ֖ם</span> <span class="translit">(ū·ḇə·mō·w·ṯām)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4194.htm">Strong's 4194: </a> </span><span class="str2">Death, the dead, their place, state, pestilence, ruin</span><br /><br /><span class="word">They were swifter</span><br /><span class="heb">קַ֔לּוּ</span> <span class="translit">(qal·lū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7043.htm">Strong's 7043: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be slight, swift or trifling</span><br /><br /><span class="word">than eagles,</span><br /><span class="heb">מִנְּשָׁרִ֣ים</span> <span class="translit">(min·nə·šā·rîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-m | Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5404.htm">Strong's 5404: </a> </span><span class="str2">The eagle</span><br /><br /><span class="word">they were stronger</span><br /><span class="heb">גָּבֵֽרוּ׃</span> <span class="translit">(gā·ḇê·rū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1396.htm">Strong's 1396: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be strong, to prevail, act insolently</span><br /><br /><span class="word">than lions.</span><br /><span class="heb">מֵאֲרָי֖וֹת</span> <span class="translit">(mê·’ă·rā·yō·wṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-m | Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_738.htm">Strong's 738: </a> </span><span class="str2">A lion</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_samuel/1-23.htm">2 Samuel 1:23 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_samuel/1-23.htm">2 Samuel 1:23 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_samuel/1-23.htm">2 Samuel 1:23 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_samuel/1-23.htm">2 Samuel 1:23 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_samuel/1-23.htm">2 Samuel 1:23 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_samuel/1-23.htm">2 Samuel 1:23 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_samuel/1-23.htm">2 Samuel 1:23 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_samuel/1-23.htm">2 Samuel 1:23 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_samuel/1-23.htm">2 Samuel 1:23 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_samuel/1-23.htm">2 Samuel 1:23 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_samuel/1-23.htm">OT History: 2 Samuel 1:23 Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_samuel/1-22.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Samuel 1:22"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 1:22" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_samuel/1-24.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Samuel 1:24"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 1:24" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>