Summary
Jonathan, disobeying his father Saul, takes an armor-bearer across a rocky pass to launch a surprise assault on a Philistine garrison, killing about twenty men and causing widespread terror. Saul, hearing of the attack, gathers the ark of God and confronts the priests, while a wave of trembling spreads through the host. In response, Saul imposes an oath forbidding the Israelites from eating until sunset, hoping to protect the land, but the people refuse to obey, leading to a tragic scene where Jonathan tastes honey and is enlightened. The Philistines are defeated in a major battle, but the Israelites then commit a sacrilege by eating meat with blood, prompting Saul to rebuild an altar and command ritual slaughter. Saul’s subsequent counsel with the priests ends in silence, and he ultimately casts lots to determine the fate of Jonathan, only for the people to intercede and spare him. The chapter closes with Saul consolidating his power, fighting numerous enemies, and detailing his family’s lineage.