Definition: And Jonathan said to David, Go in peace, forasmuch as we have sworn both of us in the name of the LORD, saying, The LORD be between me and thee, and between my seed and thy seed for ever. And he arose and departed: and Jonathan went into the city.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 20:42 together. It's a really important and slightly mysterious passage about friendship and loyalty. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: David is telling Jonathan to go home peacefully, and he’s making a promise – a vow – with Jonathan that God will always be between them and their descendants (their family line). It’s like a secret agreement they made. Let's unpack it word by word: “And Jonathan said to David, Go in peace…” - This is David acknowledging the situation and offering reassurance to Jonathan. “…forasmuch as we have sworn both of us in the name of the LORD…” – This is a crucial part. “Sworn” means they made a promise, and “in the name of the LORD” tells us it’s a sacred promise from God. It's like a formal agreement with divine backing. “saying, The Lord be between me and thee, and between my seed and thy seed for ever.” - This is the core of the vow. It means that God will always protect David and his family line. He’ll be a shield and a guardian for them. “And he arose and departed: and Jonathan went into the city.” - David leaves, but Jonathan follows him. This indicates he’s going to stay with David in the city. What does it all mean? It paints a picture of deep and enduring friendship between two men – David and Jonathan. It speaks to a strong sense of loyalty and protection, emphasizing God's presence and safeguarding for their descendants. Why is this important? This passage highlights the idea that God’s love and protection extend beyond just us individually. He wants to ensure the continuation of his family line through David and Jonathan. It suggests a significant bond of loyalty and faith between these two men. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of 1 Samuel 20? Discuss the significance of this verse in a broader context (like its role in the story of David and Goliath)?