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Gibeah

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Jonathan

Jonathan at Gibeah

1 Samuel 13:2

Saul chose him three thousand {men} of Israel; {whereof} two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.

Events

The death of Saul1SA 31:4

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Updated on August 16, 2026

Jonathan

Jonathan was King Saul's eldest son and David's closest friend. Despite knowing David would be king instead of him, he remained loyal to David. He died alongside his father in battle.

Read the full story of Jonathan

Journey Timeline

Prince of Israelc. 1050 BC
Jerusalem
Jonathan is the eldest son of King Saul, heir to the throne of Israel. He grows up as crown prince during Saul's early promising reign, learning warfare and leadership from his father.
1SA 13:16; 14:49
Attack on the Philistine Outpostc. 1048 BC
Jerusalem
Jonathan strikes down the Philistine garrison at Geba, igniting war with the Philistines. While Saul's army shrinks to 600 men hiding in fear, Jonathan secretly plans a bold attack with only his armor-bearer.
1SA 13:2-7
Heroic Raid at Michmashc. 1048 BC
Jerusalem
Jonathan tells his armor-bearer: 'Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few.' Together they climb the cliffs and attack a Philistine outpost. God sends panic through the enemy camp, leading to a great victory.
1SA 14:1-23
Saul's Rash Oathc. 1048 BC
Jerusalem
Saul binds the army with an oath not to eat until evening. Jonathan, unaware, eats honey. When discovered by lot, Saul condemns his own son to death. The people rescue Jonathan, recognizing he won the victory.
1SA 14:24-46
Covenant with Davidc. 1020 BC
Jerusalem
After David kills Goliath, Jonathan's soul is bound to David's in deep friendship. Jonathan gives David his robe, armor, sword, bow, and belt, symbols of his royal position. They make a covenant of friendship before the Lord.
1SA 18:1-4
Defending David to Saulc. 1018 BC
Jerusalem
When Saul plots to kill David, Jonathan defends his friend, reminding Saul of David's faithful service and victory over Goliath. Saul relents temporarily, but his hatred soon returns with greater intensity.
1SA 19:1-7
The Arrow Signalc. 1018 BC
Jerusalem
Jonathan and David devise a plan to determine Saul's intentions. When Saul throws a spear at Jonathan for defending David, Jonathan uses the arrow signal to warn David to flee. The friends weep together and renew their covenant.
1SA 20:1-42
Meeting at Horeshc. 1015 BC
Jerusalem
Jonathan finds David at Horesh while Saul pursues him. Jonathan strengthens David's hand in God, acknowledging that David will be king and asking to be second in the kingdom. This is their last recorded meeting.
1SA 23:15-18
Death at Mount Gilboac. 1010 BC
Jerusalem
In the battle against the Philistines at Mount Gilboa, Jonathan and his brothers are killed alongside their father Saul. The Philistines fasten their bodies to the wall of Beth Shan. Valiant men retrieve and bury them.
1SA 31:1-13
David's Lamentc. 1010 BC
Jerusalem
David composes a lament for Saul and Jonathan, commanding it be taught throughout Judah. He mourns Jonathan with deep grief: 'Your love for me was wonderful, more wonderful than that of women.' David honors his covenant by caring for Jonathan's son Mephibosheth.
2SA 1:17-27; 9:1-13