2 Samuel 1:25
2 Samuel 1:25 in Multiple Translations
How the mighty have fallen in the thick of battle! Jonathan lies slain on your heights.
How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle! O Jonathan, thou wast slain in thine high places.
How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle! Jonathan is slain upon thy high places.
How have the great ones been made low in the fight! Jonathan is dead on your high places.
How the mighty have fallen in battle! Jonathan lies dead on your mountains.
Howe were the mightie slaine in the mids of the battel! O Ionathan, thou wast slaine in thine hie places.
How have the mighty fallen In the midst of the battle! Jonathan! on thy high places wounded!
How the mighty have fallen in the middle of the battle! Jonathan was slain on your high places.
How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle! O Jonathan thou wast slain in thy high places.
How are the valiant fallen in battle? Jonathan slain in the high places?
“It is very sad that this mighty soldier has died! Jonathan has been killed on the mountains/hills.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 1:25
BAB
Word Study
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Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
2 Samuel 1:25 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
אֵ֚יךְ
נָפְל֣וּ
גִבֹּרִ֔ים
בְּ/ת֖וֹךְ
הַ/מִּלְחָמָ֑ה
יְה֣וֹנָתָ֔ן
עַל
בָּמוֹתֶ֖י/ךָ
חָלָֽל
אֵ֚יךְ
ʼêyk
H349
how?
Part
נָפְל֣וּ
nâphal
H5307
to fall
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
גִבֹּרִ֔ים
gibbôwr
H1368
mighty man
Adj
בְּ/ת֖וֹךְ
tâvek
H8432
midst
Prep | N-ms
הַ/מִּלְחָמָ֑ה
milchâmâh
H4421
battle
Art | N-fs
יְה֣וֹנָתָ֔ן
Yᵉhôwnâthân
H3083
Jonathan
N-proper
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
בָּמוֹתֶ֖י/ךָ
bâmâh
H1116
high place
N-fp | Suff
חָלָֽל
châlâl
H2491
slain
Adj
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 1:25
אֵ֚יךְ
ʼêyk
H349
"how?"
Part
In the Bible, this word means 'how' or 'where', like in Genesis when God asks Adam 'where are you'. It's also used to express surprise or excitement.
Definition: interrog adv how?
Usage: Occurs in 74 OT verses. KJV: how, what. See also: Genesis 26:9; Ecclesiastes 2:16; Psalms 11:1.
נָפְל֣וּ
nâphal
H5307
"to fall"
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to fall, and it's used in many ways, like falling down, failing, or being defeated. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah. God's people often fell away from Him, but He always offered a way back.
Definition: : fall/drop/fail 1) to fall, lie, be cast down, fail 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to fall 1a2) to fall (of violent death) 1a3) to fall prostrate, prostrate oneself before 1a4) to fall upon, attack, desert, fall away to, go away to, fall into the hand of 1a5) to fall short, fail, fall out, turn out, result 1a6) to settle, waste away, be offered, be inferior to 1a7) to lie, lie prostrate 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to fall, fell, throw down, knock out, lay prostrate 1b2) to overthrow 1b3) to make the lot fall, assign by lot, apportion by lot 1b4) to let drop, cause to fail (fig.) 1b5) to cause to fall 1c) (Hithpael) 1c1) to throw or prostrate oneself, throw oneself upon 1c2) to lie prostrate, prostrate oneself 1d) (Pilel) to fall
Usage: Occurs in 403 OT verses. KJV: be accepted, cast (down, self, (lots), out), cease, die, divide (by lot), (let) fail, (cause to, let, make, ready to) fall (away, down, -en, -ing), fell(-ing), fugitive, have (inheritance), inferior, be judged (by mistake for H6419 (פָּלַל)), lay (along), (cause to) lie down, light (down), be ([idiom] hast) lost, lying, overthrow, overwhelm, perish, present(-ed, -ing), (make to) rot, slay, smite out, [idiom] surely, throw down. See also: Genesis 2:21; 1 Samuel 17:52; Esther 9:3.
גִבֹּרִ֔ים
gibbôwr
H1368
"mighty man"
Adj
This word describes a strong or mighty man, like a warrior or champion, as seen in 1 Samuel 17:51 where David defeats Goliath. It can also imply a brave or valiant person.
Definition: adj 1) strong, mighty n m 2) strong man, brave man, mighty man
Usage: Occurs in 152 OT verses. KJV: champion, chief, [idiom] excel, giant, man, mighty (man, one), strong (man), valiant man. See also: Genesis 6:4; 2 Chronicles 17:16; Psalms 19:6.
בְּ/ת֖וֹךְ
tâvek
H8432
"midst"
Prep | N-ms
This word refers to the middle or center of something, such as a group of people or a physical space. It can also mean among or between things, as seen in various Bible translations.
Definition: 1) midst, middle 1a) midst, middle 1b) into, through (after verbs of motion) 1c) among (of a number of persons) 1d) between (of things arranged by twos) 1e) from among (as to take or separate etc)
Usage: Occurs in 390 OT verses. KJV: among(-st), [idiom] between, half, [idiom] (there-, where-), in(-to), middle, mid(-night), midst (among), [idiom] out (of), [idiom] through, [idiom] with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:6; Numbers 35:5; 2 Chronicles 32:4.
הַ/מִּלְחָמָ֑ה
milchâmâh
H4421
"battle"
Art | N-fs
This word means battle or war, describing a fight or conflict. It is used in the Bible to talk about wars and battles, like the ones in the book of Joshua. The KJV translates it as battle or fight.
Definition: battle, war
Usage: Occurs in 308 OT verses. KJV: battle, fight(-ing), war(-rior). See also: Genesis 14:2; 1 Samuel 30:24; 2 Chronicles 13:14.
יְה֣וֹנָתָ֔ן
Yᵉhôwnâthân
H3083
"Jonathan"
N-proper
Jehonathan was a son of King Saul and a friend of David, meaning 'Jehovah has given'. He was also known as Jonathan.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.13.3; son of: Shimeah (H8093); also called Jonathan at 2Sa.21.21; 1x27.32; Another name of yo.na.dav (יוֹנָדָב "Jonadab" H3122G) § Jonathan or Jehonathan = "Jehovah has given" 1) a son of king Saul and a friend of David 2) a son of the high priest Abiathar and the last descendant of Eli of whom we hear 3) a nephew of David who like David slew a giant of Gath 4) an uncle of David 5) one of David's mighty warriors 6) one of David's treasurers 7) a scribe in the time of Jeremiah 8) a Levite and father of Zechariah, a priest who blew the trumpet at the dedication of the wall 9) a son or descendant of Gershom, the son of Moses, and a priest to the tribe of Dan 10) a son of Kareah and a brother of Johanan; a Judaite captain after the fall of Jerusalem 11) another Judaite father of Peleth 12) father of Ebed in the time of Ezra 13) son of Asahel in the time of Ezra 14) a priest of the family of Melicu in the time of Nehemiah 15) son of Joiada and his successor to the high priesthood in the time of Nehemiah
Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: Jonathan. Compare H3129 (יוֹנָתָן). See also: 1 Samuel 14:6; 1 Samuel 23:18; Jeremiah 37:15.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
בָּמוֹתֶ֖י/ךָ
bâmâh
H1116
"high place"
N-fp | Suff
A high place or elevation, often referring to a cultic platform or mountain. In the Bible, it can also refer to battlefields or funeral mounds, as seen in various passages.
Definition: 1) high place, ridge, height, bamah (technical name for cultic platform) 1a) high place, mountain 1b) high places, battlefields 1c) high places (as places of worship) 1d) funeral mound?
Usage: Occurs in 92 OT verses. KJV: height, high place, wave. See also: Leviticus 26:30; 1 Chronicles 16:39; Psalms 18:34.
חָלָֽל
châlâl
H2491
"slain"
Adj
This word describes something or someone that has been profaned or hurt, like in Numbers 35:33. It can also mean to be pierced or wounded, as in physically harmed.
Definition: : killed 1) slain, fatally wounded, pierced 1a) pierced, fatally wounded 1b) slain Also means: cha.lal (חָלָל ": wounded" H2491H)
Usage: Occurs in 85 OT verses. KJV: kill, profane, slain (man), [idiom] slew, (deadly) wounded. See also: Genesis 34:27; Isaiah 66:16; Psalms 69:27.
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 1:25
Show Verse Quote Highlights
Context — David’s Song for Saul and Jonathan
23Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life, were not divided in death. They were swifter than eagles; they were stronger than lions.
24O daughters of Israel, weep for Saul, who clothed you in scarlet and luxury, who decked your garments with ornaments of gold.
25How the mighty have fallen in the thick of battle! Jonathan lies slain on your heights.
26I grieve for you, Jonathan, my brother. You were delightful to me; your love to me was extraordinary, surpassing the love of women. 27How the mighty have fallen, and the weapons of war have perished!”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Samuel 1:19 | “Your glory, O Israel, lies slain on your heights. How the mighty have fallen! |
| 2 | 2 Samuel 1:27 | How the mighty have fallen and the weapons of war have perished!” |
| 3 | Judges 5:18 | Zebulun was a people who risked their lives; Naphtali, too, on the heights of the battlefield. |
| 4 | 1 Samuel 14:13–15 | So Jonathan climbed up on his hands and feet, with his armor-bearer behind him. And the Philistines fell before Jonathan, and his armor-bearer followed and finished them off. In that first assault, Jonathan and his armor-bearer struck down about twenty men over half an acre of land. Then terror struck the Philistines in the camp, in the field, and among all the people. Even those in the outposts and raiding parties trembled. Indeed, the earth quaked and panic spread from God. |
| 5 | Lamentations 5:16 | The crown has fallen from our head. Woe to us, for we have sinned! |
2 Samuel 1:25 Summary
[This verse is saying that even the strongest and bravest people can fall in battle, like Jonathan, who was a great warrior and a close friend of David. It reminds us that our strength and power come from God, not from ourselves, as stated in Psalms 28:7. We should always trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of difficult circumstances, as encouraged in Jeremiah 29:11. By doing so, we can find comfort and peace, just like David did when he mourned the loss of his dear friend Jonathan.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is meant by 'the mighty have fallen' in this verse?
This phrase refers to the unexpected and tragic death of strong and powerful leaders, like Jonathan, who were thought to be invincible, as seen in 2 Samuel 1:25. This reminds us of the fleeting nature of human power and the sovereignty of God, as stated in Psalms 103:19.
Why is Jonathan's death mourned so deeply in this passage?
Jonathan's death is mourned deeply because of his exceptional character, bravery, and the strong bond of friendship he shared with David, as expressed in 2 Samuel 1:26. This highlights the importance of meaningful relationships in our lives, as emphasized in Proverbs 17:17.
What is the significance of Jonathan lying slain 'on your heights'?
The phrase 'on your heights' refers to the mountains of Israel, where Jonathan died in battle, as described in 2 Samuel 1:25. This serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by God's people in the pursuit of faith and freedom, as seen in Hebrews 11:34.
How does this verse relate to the broader theme of God's sovereignty?
This verse illustrates how God's sovereignty is at work even in the midst of human conflict and tragedy, as stated in Romans 11:33. The fall of the mighty serves as a reminder of God's power and control over all things, as declared in Isaiah 46:10.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways in which I can apply the lesson of Jonathan's humility and bravery to my own life?
- How can I cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships with others, like the one between David and Jonathan?
- What does this verse teach me about the nature of human power and the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty?
- In what ways can I honor the memories of those who have sacrificed for their faith, like Jonathan, and learn from their examples?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 1:25
How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle!.... The mighty and valiant men of war, the common soldiers as well as their general officers, whose loss David mourns, and the repetition of
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 1:25
Which were in thy country, and (had not thy father disinherited thee by his sins) in thy dominions.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 1:25
2 Samuel 1:25 How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle! O Jonathan, [thou wast] slain in thine high places.Ver. 25. In the midst of the battle.] Making good their station, and dying on the place: not flying to save themselves. Thou wast slain, &c.] Est hoc carmen spiritu militari conscriptum. David, as he fought, so he wrote.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 1:25
25. O Jonathan, thou wast slain in thine high places] O Jonathan, slain upon thine high places! The insertion of thou wast weakens the force and pathos. Cp. 2 Samuel 1:19. The hero of a hundred fights, slain at last in those mountain strong-holds of his country which he had once won and defended so successfully (1 Samuel 14).
Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 1:25
How are the mighty fallen - The recurrenee of the same idea 2 Samuel 1:19, 2 Samuel 1:25, 2 Samuel 1:27 is perfectly congenial to the nature of elegy, since grief is fond of dwelling upon the
Sermons on 2 Samuel 1:25
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Wonderful by Phil Clarkson | In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Isaiah Chapter 9 and emphasizes the solemn responsibility of addressing an audience. He highlights the importance of not wasting p |
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David - Raised Up by God by Devern Fromke | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the contrast between man's way of achieving and fulfilling God's will and God's way. He uses the examples of Saul, who was chosen by the peop |
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David Lamenting Over the Death of Saul Part 2 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith reflects on the lamentation of David over the death of Saul. He emphasizes the beauty and might of Israel that has been lost. Pastor Chuck also m |
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Loyalty by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the character of Jonathan from the Bible and how his loyalty to God and his faith inspired others. The speaker emphasizes the importance of e |
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The Seven Levels of Judgment - Part 2 by Dan Biser | This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing and confessing our sins before the Lord, both individually and collectively as a church and nation. It delves into various Bibl |