1 Samuel 23:18 — Word Study
WLCוַיִּכְרְת֧וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֛ם בְּרִ֖ית לִפְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה וַיֵּ֤שֶׁב דָּוִד֙ בַּחֹ֔רְשָׁה וִיהוֹנָתָ֖ן הָלַ֥ךְ לְבֵיתֽוֹ׃ ס
BSASo the twoshᵉnayim [a pair, a duo] of them madekârath▸ a covenantbᵉrîyth [agreement, promise] beforepânîym the LORDYᵉhôvâh [Yehovah, the divine Sovereign] And DavidDâvid remainedyâshab▸ [to dwell, to sit] in Horeshchôresh [the wood, a forest] ◂while JonathanYᵉhôwnâthân wenthâlak■ [to go, to walk] homebayith [to his house, his dwelling place]
| Greek | English | Parsing |
|---|---|---|
| וַיִּכְרְת֧וּ | and they made | Verb, Qal, sequential imperfect third person masculine plural |
| שְׁנֵיהֶ֛ם | [the] two of them | Noun common both dual construct, suffix |
| בְּרִ֖ית | a covenant | Noun common, feminine singular absolute |
| לִפְנֵ֣י | before | Preposition, noun common masculine plural construct |
| יְהוָ֑ה | Yahweh | Noun proper |
| וַיֵּ֤שֶׁב | and he remained | Verb, Qal, sequential imperfect third person masculine singular |
| דָּוִד֙ | David | Noun proper masculine |
| בַּחֹ֔רְשָׁה | at Horesh | Preposition, noun proper |
| וִיהוֹנָתָ֖ן | and Jonathan | Conjunction, noun proper masculine |
| הָלַ֥ךְ | he went | Verb, Qal, perfect third person masculine singular |
| לְבֵיתֽוֹ׃ ס | to house his | Preposition, noun common masculine singular construct, suffix |
Every word in the verse. Click a row to open it in the panel on the left.
| BSB | So the two of them made a covenant before the LORD. And David remained in Horesh, while Jonathan went home. |
| KJV | And they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house. |
| ASV | And they two made a covenant before Jehovah: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house. |
| YLT | And they make a covenant both of them before Jehovah; and David abideth in the forest, and Jonathan hath gone to his house. |
| WEB | They both made a covenant before Yahweh. Then David stayed in the woods and Jonathan went to his house. |
| BBE | And the two of them made an agreement before the Lord: and David went on living in Horesh, and Jonathan went back to his house. |
Where they part company is in the rendering of בְּרִ֖ית — see How Translations Differ.
The sentence consists of one main clause followed by two subordinate phrases, detailing the actions of David and Jonathan.
6 commentators on this verse
Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them ›
clause
subjectדָּוִד
verbכָּרַת
The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
Every word here is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.
Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.
Deep Study — 1 Samuel 23:18
Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.
Context — The Covenant Between David and Jonathangenerated
1 Samuel 23:18 recounts a significant moment between David and Jonathan, where they made a covenant before the LORD, highlighting their deep friendship and loyalty to one another. This covenant is a formal agreement that binds them together in mutual support, especially in the context of David's ongoing conflict with King Saul. The passage illustrates the importance of alliances and commitments in times of strife, as seen throughout the narrative of David's life.
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Samuel 18:3 | Then Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. |
| 2 | 1 Samuel 20:12–17 | and Jonathan said, “By the LORD, the God of Israel, I will sound out my father by this time tomorrow or the next day. If he is favorable toward you, will I not send for you and tell you? |
| 3 | 2 Samuel 9:1 | Then David asked, “Is there anyone left from the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for the sake of Jonathan?” |
| 4 | 2 Samuel 21:7 | Now the king spared Mephibosheth son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, because of the oath before the LORD between David and Jonathan son of Saul. |
The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge — 4 references, hung on the phrase they belong to
The Key Word — בְּרִ֖ית, be.Ritgenerated
The Hebrew word בְּרִית (berith) means 'covenant' and signifies a formal agreement or promise made between parties. It is derived from a root meaning 'to cut,' indicating the serious nature of such commitments, often involving a ritual or symbolic act of cutting to seal the agreement.
This term is central to many biblical narratives, reflecting the bonds between individuals and between God and humanity. In this context, it underscores the loyalty and commitment shared by David and Jonathan, which is pivotal as David navigates the challenges posed by Saul.
How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated
All translations agree on the term covenant for בְּרִ֖ית, reflecting the seriousness of the agreement made between David and Jonathan.
Sentence Structuregenerated
The main verb וַיִּכְרְת֧וּ (and they made) governs the sentence, with a noun phrase as the subject and several prepositional phrases providing context. The structure emphasizes the act of making a covenant and the subsequent actions of the characters.
The sentence flows from the covenant-making to the actions of David and Jonathan, showcasing their respective roles and locations, which adds depth to their relationship.
Septuagint Backgroundgenerated
The Septuagint translates the key verb וַיִּכְרְת֧וּ as διέθεντο (they made), which carries a similar meaning but may suggest a broader interpretation of establishing an agreement.
This choice of translation indicates a continuity of the concept of covenant in both Hebrew and Greek contexts, reinforcing the significance of the agreement made.
In plain words — the whole versegenerated
1 Samuel 23:18 describes how David and Jonathan made a covenant before the LORD, emphasizing their loyalty to each other. David stayed in Horesh while Jonathan returned home. This moment highlights the strength of their friendship during a difficult time.
Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated
Making a covenant involves entering into a serious agreement or promise, often sealed with a symbolic act, such as cutting, to signify commitment.
The covenant represents a deep bond of loyalty and support between the two men, especially important as David faces threats from King Saul.
Covenants in the Bible often signify important relationships and commitments, both between individuals and between God and His people, highlighting the value of loyalty and faithfulness.
This passage occurs during a time of conflict for David, emphasizing the importance of alliances and friendships as he navigates challenges.
Reflection Questionsgenerated
- How can I demonstrate loyalty and commitment in my relationships?
- What are some examples of covenants in the Bible, and how do they inform our understanding of agreements today?
- In what ways can I support friends during difficult times, similar to how David and Jonathan supported each other?
- How does understanding the concept of covenant deepen my relationship with God?
The early church on this verse — how the Fathers read it
Bede comments on this verse, noting the covenant struck between the Lord and the faithful, emphasizing mutual commitment and the promise of eternal life.
Therefore, each struck a covenant before the Lord, etc. The Lord and the faithful strike a covenant with each other, that they should follow Him, and He should give them eternal life;Early Church Fathers on 1 Samuel 23 →
Commentators on this verse — 6 expositors, verse by verse
Each of these wrote on 1 Samuel 23:18 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.
John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleAnd they two made a covenant before the Lord,.... Renewed the covenant they had before made in the name and fear of God, and before him as a witness of it.
Read John Gill on 1 Samuel 23 →Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's CommentaryAnd they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house. No JFB commentary on this verse.
Read Robert Jamieson on 1 Samuel 23 →Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy BibleThey two made a covenant, i.e. renewed their former covenant before the Lord; setting themselves as in God’ s presence, and calling upon him to be witness between them.
Read Matthew Poole on 1 Samuel 23 →John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New Testaments1 Samuel 23:18 And they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.Ver. 18. And they two made a covenant.] This is the second time, for more assurance; or, as Lyra reckoneth, the third: (1.) In the house; (2.) In the field; (3.) Here in the wood. Let us oft renew and reinforce our covenants with God, that we may the better observe them: all will be found little enough.
Read John Trapp on 1 Samuel 23 →CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges18. to his house] Home to Gibeah, where Saul was (1 Samuel 23:19). It was the final parting of the friends.
Read Cambridge on 1 Samuel 23 →Daniel Denison Whedon1808–1885Whedon's Commentary on the Bible18. They two made a covenant before the Lord — Alone in the wilderness of Ziph, and probably at the still hour of night, with none but Jehovah to witness, they solemnly renewed the covenant in which
Read Daniel Denison Whedon on 1 Samuel 23 →The verse in English, compared — 17 translations, and where they part company
Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.
Modern formal
So the two of them made a covenant before the LORD. And David remained in Horesh, while Jonathan went home.
They both made a covenant before Yahweh. Then David stayed in the woods and Jonathan went to his house.
So the two of them made a covenant before the LORD. And David remained in Horesh, while Jonathan went home.
When the two of them had made a covenant before the Lord, David stayed on at Horesh, but Jonathan went to his house.
Tyndale line
And they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.
And they two made a covenant before Jehovah: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.
And they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.
And they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.
So they twaine made a couenant before ye Lord: and Dauid did remaine in the wood: but Ionathan went to his house.
Strictly literal
And they two made a covenant before Jehovah; and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.
And they make a covenant both of them before Jehovah; and David abideth in the forest, and Jonathan hath gone to his house.
And both of them make a covenant before YHWH; and David abides in the forest, and Jonathan has gone to his house.
And they made, both of them, a covenant before the Lord: and David remained in the forest; but Jonathan went to his house.
They made a covenant before Yahweh. David remained at Horesh, and Jonathan went home.
From the Latin
And the two made a covenant before the Lord: and David abode in the wood: but Jonathan returned to his house.
Simplified
The two of them made an agreement before the Lord. David stayed in Horesh and Jonathan went home.
And the two of them made an agreement before the Lord: and David went on living in Horesh, and Jonathan went back to his house.
Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.
The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank
This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.
Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.
The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran
The Masoretic Text and the Septuagint agree closely in this verse, with all words matched in the Hebrew and Greek versions. The Dead Sea Scrolls show some restoration but align with the Masoretic Text's core meaning.
וַיִּכְרְת֧וּ שְׁנֵיהֶ֛ם בְּרִ֖ית לִפְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה וַיֵּ֤שֶׁב דָּוִד֙ בַּחֹ֔רְשָׁה וִיהוֹנָתָ֖ן הָלַ֥ךְ לְבֵיתֽוֹ׃ ס
11 of the 11 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.
[ויכרתו] שני׳הם ברית [לפני] [יהוה] [וישב] [דוד] [בחרשה] [ויונתן] [הלך] [לבית׳ו]
nothing on the leather here — 2 partly restored, 9 supplied entire by an editor.
Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.
The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with
This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.
Lexicons — every word in 1 Samuel 23:18
One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.
Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.
כָּרַת (karath) is a Hebrew verb meaning to cut off, cut down, or make a covenant. It encompasses a range of actions from physically cutting to forming alliances, often implying destruction or elimination. The verb appears in various forms, indicating different nuances such as being cut off or destroyed. Notably, it can also refer to the act of making a covenant, which traditionally involved cutting flesh.
כָּרַת 291 vb. cut off, cut down
Qal
cut off
cut down
hew, timber
cut, or make a covenant
Niph.
be cut off
be cut down
be chewed between the teeth
be cut off, in a more general sense fail
Pual
be cut off
be cut down
Hiph.
cut off, flattering lips
cut off, destroy the life of
cut down, destroy, cities
take away
permit to perish
base
H3772 כָּרַת cut off, cut down .. cut off
. cut down
. hew, timber
. cut, or make a covenant
. . be cut off
. be cut down
. be chewed between the teeth
. be cut off, in a more general sense fail
.. be cut off
. be cut down
. . cut off, flattering lips
. cut off, destroy the life of
. cut down, destroy, cities
. take away
. permit to perish
3772 karath kaw-rath'
a primitive root; to cut (off, down or asunder); by
implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant
(i.e. make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutting flesh
and passing between the pieces):--be chewed, be
con-(feder-)ate, covenant, cut (down, off), destroy, fail,
feller, be freed, hew (down), make a league ((covenant)), X
lose, perish, X utterly, X want.
כָּרַת (ka.rat) — to cut: cut.
: cut/fell
1) to cut, cut off, cut down, cut off a body part, cut out, eliminate, kill, cut a covenant
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to cut off
1a1a) to cut off a body part, behead
1a2) to cut down
1a3) to hew
1a4) to cut or make a covenant
1b) (Niphal)
1b1) to be cut off
1b2) to be cut down
1b3) to be chewed
1b4) to be cut off, fail
1c) (Pual)
1c1) to be cut off
1c2) to be cut down
1d) (Hiphil)
1d1) to cut off
1d2) to cut off, destroy
1d3) to cut down, destroy
1d4) to take away
1d5) to permit to perish
1e) (Hophal) cut off
כָּרַת (ka.rat) — to cut: make(covenant).
: make(covenant)
1) to cut, cut off, cut down, cut off a body part, cut out, eliminate, kill, cut a covenant
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to cut off
1a1a) to cut off a body part, behead
1a2) to cut down
1a3) to hew
1a4) to cut or make a covenant
1b) (Niphal)
1b1) to be cut off
1b2) to be cut down
1b3) to be chewed
1b4) to be cut off, fail
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp — Verb · Qal · sequential imperfect third person masculine pluralHc/Vqw3mp
שְׁנַ֫יִם (shnayim) means 'two' and serves as both a cardinal and ordinal number. It can denote 'both,' 'double,' or 'twice,' and is used in various combinations with other numbers. The word is derived as a dual form of שָׁנָה (shanah), which relates to the concept of pairs.
שְׁנַ֫יִם, שְׁתַּיִם 768 n.m. et f. du. two
base
H8147 שְׁנַ֫יִם, שְׁתַּיִם two
8147 shnayim shen-ah'-yim
dual of 8145; feminine shttayim {shet-tah'-yim}; two; also
(as ordinal) twofold:--both, couple, double, second, twain, +
twelfth, + twelve, + twenty (sixscore) thousand, twice, two.
see HEBREW for 08145
שְׁנַ֫יִם (she.na.yim) — two.
1) two
1a) two (the cardinal number)
1a1) two, both, double, twice
1b) second (the ordinal number)
1c) in combination with other numbers
1d) both (a dual number)
Adj | Suff — Noun common both dual construct · suffixHNcbdc/Sp3mp
בְּרִית (berith) means 'covenant' and encompasses agreements between individuals, such as treaties and alliances, as well as divine covenants between God and humanity. It is derived from a root meaning 'to cut,' suggesting the seriousness of such agreements. The term appears in various contexts, including friendships, marriages, and formal ordinances.
בְּרִית 285 n.f. covenant
between men.
treaty, alliance, league
constitution, ordinance, between monarch and subjects
agreement, pledge
alliance of friendship between David and Jonathan
alliance of marriage
between God and man.
alliance of friendship
covenant, as a divine constitution or ordinance with signs or pledges
Phrases.
covenant making
covenant keeping
covenant violation
base
H1285 בְּרִית covenant . between men. . treaty, alliance, league
. constitution, ordinance, between monarch and subjects
. agreement, pledge
. alliance of friendship between David and Jonathan
. alliance of marriage
. between God and man. . alliance of friendship
. covenant, as a divine constitution or ordinance with signs or pledges
. Phrases. . covenant making
. covenant keeping
. covenant violation
1285 briyth ber-eeth'
from 1262 (in the sense of cutting (like 1254)); a compact
(because made by passing between pieces of
flesh):--confederacy, (con-)feder(-ate), covenant, league.
see HEBREW for 01262
see HEBREW for 01254
בְּרִית (be.rit) — covenant.
1) covenant, alliance, pledge
1a) between men
1a1) treaty, alliance, league (man to man)
1a2) constitution, ordinance (monarch to subjects)
1a3) agreement, pledge (man to man)
1a4) alliance (of friendship)
1a5) alliance (of marriage)
1b) between God and man
1b1) alliance (of friendship)
1b2) covenant (divine ordinance with signs or pledges)
2) (phrases)
2a) covenant making
2b) covenant keeping
2c) covenant violation
N-fs — Noun common · feminine singular absoluteHNcfsa
Covenant
A contract or agreement between two parties. In the Old Testament the Hebrew word berith is always thus translated. Berith is derived from a root which means “to cut,” and hence a covenant is a “cutting,” with reference to the cutting or dividing of animals into two parts, and the contracting parties passing between them, in making a covenant (Gen. 15; Jer. 34:18, 19).
The corresponding word in the New Testament Greek is diatheke, which is, however, rendered “testament” generally in the Authorized Version. It ought to be rendered, just as the word berith of the Old Testament, “covenant.”
This word is used (1) of a covenant or compact between man and man (Gen. 21:32), or between tribes or nations (1 Sam.…
The Heb. berith means primarily "a cutting," with reference to the custom of cutting or dividing animals in two and passing between the parts in ratifying a covenant. (Genesis 15; Jeremiah 34:18,19) In the New Testament the corresponding word is diathece (diatheke), which is frequently translated testament in the Authorized Version. In its biblical meaning two parties the word is used-- Of a covenant between God and man; e.g. God covenanted with Noah, after the flood, that a like judgment should not be repeated. It is not precisely like a covenant between men, but was a promise or agreement by God. The principal covenants are the covenant of works --God promising to save and bless men on condition of perfect obedience --and the covenant of grace , or God’s promise to save men on condition of their believing in Christ and receiving…
The word testamentum is often used in Latin to express the Hebrew word which signifies covenant; whence the titles, Old and New Testaments, are used to denote the old and new covenants. See TESTAMENT.
A covenant is properly an agreement between two parties. Where one of the parties is infinitely superior to the other, as in a covenant between God and man, there God’s covenant assumes the nature of a promise, Isa 59:21 Jer 31:33,34 Ga 3:15-18. The first covenant with the Hebrews was made when the Lord chose Abraham and his posterity for his people; a second covenant, or a solemn renewal of the former, was made at Sinai, comprehending all who observe the law of Moses. The "new covenant" of which Christ is the Mediator and…
→ Sacred Jos 9:18-21; Ga 3:15
→ Binding Jos 9:18-20; Jer 34:8-21; Eze 17:14-18; Ga 3:15
→ Binding, not only on those who make them, but on those who are represented De 29:14,15
The Hebrew word פָּנֶה (*pāneh*) is a noun meaning 'face' or 'presence,' and it appears in various contexts, including the faces of seraphim and animals, as well as the surface of the ground. It can also function as an adverb meaning 'before' or 'in front of.' The word is built from a root that suggests turning or facing, and it encompasses a wide range of applications, both literal and figurative.
[פָּנֶה], pl. פָּנִים 2123 n.m. face, also faces
face, faces
presence, person
technically, see one's face, i.e. appear before one, in one's presence
face of seraphim
face of animals
face (= surface) of ground
as adv.loc. before
for other phrases
with prepositions
base
H6440 פָּנֶה, pl. פָּנִים face, also faces . . face, faces
. . presence, person
. technically, see one's face, i.e. appear before one, in one's presence
. face of seraphim
. face of animals
. face (= surface) of ground
. as adv. loc. before
. for other phrases
. with prepositions
6440 paniym paw-neem'
plural (but always as singular) of an unused noun (paneh
{paw-neh'}; from 6437); the face (as the part that turns);
used in a great variety of applications (literally and
figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a
preposition (before, etc.):--+ accept, a-(be- )fore(-time),
against, anger, X as (long as), at, + battle, + because (of),
+ beseech, countenance, edge, + employ, endure, + enquire,
face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er
time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, X him(-self), +
honourable, + impudent, + in, it, look(-eth) (- s), X me, +
meet, X more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), X on,
open, + out of, over against, the partial, person, + please,
presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, + regard, right
forth, + serve, X shewbread, sight, state, straight, + street,
X thee, X them(-selves), through (+ - out), till, time(-s)
פָּנֶה (pa.neh) — face: before.
: before/to/front
1) face
1a) face, faces
1b) presence, person
1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim)
1d) face (of animals)
1e) face, surface (of ground)
1f) as adv of loc/temp
1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before
1g) with prep
1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
פָּנֶה (pa.neh) — face.
: face
1) face
1a) face, faces
1b) presence, person
1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim)
1d) face (of animals)
1e) face, surface (of ground)
1f) as adv of loc/temp
1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before
1g) with prep
1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from…
Prep | N-cp — Preposition · noun common masculine plural constructHR/Ncmpc
be-for': The translation of a great variety of Hebrew and Greek words. "Haran died before (the English Revised Version "in the presence of," literally "before the face of") his father Terah" (Ge 11:28). To be "before" God is to enjoy His favor (Ps 31:22). "The Syrians before" (Isa 9:12 the Revised Version, margin "on the east," as "behind," owing to the position of Canaan, relative to Syria, implies the west).
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) is the proper name of the God of Israel, often rendered as Jehovah or the Lord. It signifies the self-existent or eternal nature of God. The name is closely associated with the revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:12-15 and is used in conjunction with other terms to denote sacred places. Some scholars suggest it derives from a root meaning 'to bring into being.'
יהוה c. 6823 i.e. יַהְוֶה n.pr.dei Yahweh, the proper name of the God of Israel—(1. MT יְהֹוָה 6518 (Qr אֲדֹנָי), or יֱהֹוִה 305 (Qr אֱלֹהִים) 2. Many recent scholars explain יַהְוֶה as Hiph. of הוה (= היה) the one bringing into being, life-giver)
יהוה is not used by E in Gn, but is given Ex 3:12-15 as the name of the God who revealed Himself to Moses at Horeb
יהוה is used with אלהים and suffixes, especially in D
the phrase † אֲנִי יהוה is noteworthy
יהוה is also used with several predicates, to form sacred names of holy places of Yahweh
base
H3068 יהוה i.e. יַהְוֶה n. pr. dei Yahweh, the proper name of the God of Israel
3068 Yhovah yeh-ho-vaw'
from 1961; (the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish
national name of God:--Jehovah, the Lord. Compare 3050, 3069.
see HEBREW for 01961
see HEBREW for 03050
see HEBREW for 03069
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — LORD.
Jehovah = "the existing One"
1) the proper name of the one true God
1a) unpronounced except with the vowel pointings of a.do.na (אֲדֹנָי "Lord" H0136)
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — The Lord.
Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — (Jerusalem of) the Lord.
Combined with ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
N-proper — Noun properHNpt
יָשַׁב (yashab) is a Hebrew verb meaning to sit, remain, or dwell. It encompasses a range of actions from simply sitting down to more complex ideas like establishing a home or causing a place to be inhabited. The entries indicate various forms, including Qal (to sit), Niphal (to be inhabited), and Hiphil (to cause to dwell). There is an Aramaic equivalent, יְתִב (ye.tiv), meaning 'to dwell'.
יָשַׁב 1090 vb. sit, remain, dwell
Qal
sit
sit, sit down
sit down
sit = be set (as a jewel)
remain, stay, tarry
with special emphasis of qualifying phr.
dwell, have one’s abode
of a land or city, sit, abide, seated in its place, fig. for be inhabited
Niph. be inhabited, of land
Pi. and they shall set their encampments in thee
Hiph.
cause to sit
cause to abide
cause to dwell
cause cities to be inhabited
marry (prop. give a dwelling to)
Hoph. and ye be made to dwell alone in the midst of the land
base
H3427 יָשַׁב sit, remain, dwell
3427 yashab yaw-shab'
a primitive root; properly, to sit down (specifically as
judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to
remain; causatively, to settle, to marry:--(make to)
abide(-ing), continue, (cause to, make to) dwell(-ing), ease
self, endure, establish, X fail, habitation, haunt, (make to)
inhabit(-ant), make to keep (house), lurking, X marry(-ing),
(bring again to) place, remain, return, seat, set(- tle),
(down-)sit(-down, still, -ting down, -ting (place) -uate),
take, tarry.
יָשַׁב (ya.shav) — to dwell.
1) to dwell, remain, sit, abide
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to sit, sit down
1a2) to be set
1a3) to remain, stay
1a4) to dwell, have one's abode
1b) (Niphal) to be inhabited
1c) (Piel) to set, place
1d) (Hiphil)
1d1) to cause to sit
1d2) to cause to abide, set
1d3) to cause to dwell
1d4) to cause (cities) to be inhabited
1d5) to marry (give an dwelling to)
1e) (Hophal)
1e1) to be inhabited
1e2) to make to dwell
Aramaic equivalent: ye.tiv (יְתִב "to dwell" H3488)
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms — Verb · Qal · sequential imperfect third person masculine singularHc/Vqw3ms
דָּוִד (David) refers to the second king of Israel, known as the youngest son of Jesse. The name means 'beloved' and is associated with a significant lineage, including many siblings and notable descendants like Solomon. The entries highlight his familial connections and historical context, with no significant disagreement among the lexicons.
דָּוִד, דָּוִיד 1066 n.pr.m. David
base
H1732 דָּוִד, דָּוִיד David
1732 David daw-veed'
rarely (fully); Daviyd {daw-veed'}; from the same as 1730;
loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse:--David.
see HEBREW for 01730
דָּוִד (da.vid) — David.
A king of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at Rut.4.17;
son of: Jesse (H3448) and Nahash (H5176I);
brother of: Eliab (H0446I), Abinadab (H0041I), Shimeah (H8093), Zeruiah (H6870), Abigail (H0026H)(?), Nethanel (H5417H), Raddai (H7288), Ozem (H0684) and Elihu (H0453J); married to Michal (H4324), Abigail (H0026), Ahinoam (H0293H), Maacah (H4601I), Haggith (H2294), Abital (H0037), Eglah (H5698) and Bathsheba (H1339);
father of: Amnon (H0550), Chileab (H3609), Absalom (H0053), Adonijah (H0138), Shephatiah (H8203), Ithream (H3507), Shammua (H8051H), Shobab (H7727), Nathan (H5416), Solomon (H8010), Ibhar (H2984), Elishua (H0474), Nepheg (H5298H), Japhia (H3309I), Elishama (H0476H), Eliada (H0450), Eliphelet (H0467), Tamar (H8559H), Elpelet (H0467I), Nogah (H5052) and Jerimoth (H3406N)
N-proper — Noun proper masculineHNpm
da'-vid (dawidh, or dawidh, "beloved"; Daueid, also in New Testament, Dauid, Dabid; see Thayer's Lexicon):
I. NAME AND GENEALOGY
II. EARLY YEARS
1. Shepherd
2. Slinger
3. Harpist
4. Poet
5. Psalmist
6. Tribesman
III. IN THE SERVICE OF SAUL
1. David First Meets Saul
2. His First Exploit
3. Envy of Saul and Flight of David
4. Jonathan and David
IV. DAVID IN EXILE
1. David as Outlaw
2. David Joins the Philistines
V. DAVID AS KING
1. Civil War
2. Conquests Abroad
3. Political Situation
4. The Ark
VI. DOMESTIC LIFE
1. His Wives and Children
2. Domestic Troubles
VII. HIS OFFICIALS
1. Prophets
2. Priests
3. Military Officers
4. Other Officials
5. Mutual Rivalry
VIII. PERSONAL CHARACTER OF DAVID
1. Chronicles
2. Psalms
3. Complex Character
4. Physical Courage
5. Moral Courage
6. Prudence
7. Strategy
8. Nobility
9. David in Relation to His Family
10. David in Relation to His Friends
11. His Success
12. His Foreign Friends
13. Nemesis
David
Beloved, the eighth and youngest son of Jesse, a citizen of Bethlehem. His father seems to have been a man in humble life. His mother’s name is not recorded. Some think she was the Nahash of 2 Sam. 17:25. As to his personal appearance, we only know that he was red-haired, with beautiful eyes and a fair face (1 Sam. 16:12; 17:42).
His early occupation was that of tending his father’s sheep on the uplands of Judah. From what we know of his after history, doubtless he frequently beguiled his time, when thus engaged, with his shepherd’s flute, while he drank in the many lessons taught him by the varied scenes spread around him. His first recorded exploits were his encounters with the wild beasts of the field. He mentions that with his own unaided hand he slew a lion and also a…
(well-beloved), the son of Jesse. His life may be divided into three portions: His youth before his introduction to the court of Saul; His relations with Saul; His reign. The early life of David contains in many important respects the antecedents of his future career. It appears that David was the youngest son, probably the youngest child, of a family of ten, and was born in Bethlehem B.C. 1085. The first time that David appears in history at once admits us to the whole family circle. The annual sacrificial feast is being held when Samuel appears, sent by God to anoint one of Jesse’s sons as they pass before him, (1 Samuel 16:6-10) Samuel sends for the youngest, David, who was "keeping the sheep," and anoints him. (1 Samuel 16:11-13) As David stood before Samuel we are enabled to…
Beloved, the youngest son of Jesse, of the tribe of Judah, born in Bethlehem B. C. 1085; one of the most remarkable men in either sacred of secular history. His life is fully recorded in 1Sa 16:1 1Ki 2:46. He was "the Lord’s anointed," chosen by God to be king of Israel instead of Saul, and consecrated to that office by the venerable prophet Samuel long before he actually came to the throne, 1Sa 16:1-13, for which God prepared him by the gift of his Spirit, and a long course of vicissitudes and dangers. In his early pastoral life he distinguished himself by his boldness, fidelity, and faith in God; and while yet a youth was summoned to court, as one expert in music, valiant, prudent in behavior, and comely in person. He…
חֹ֫רֶשׁ (choresh) refers to wood or a wooded area, suggesting a connection to forests. It is derived from a root that implies material for fabric, and its meanings include forest, bough, and shroud. The entries consistently describe it as relating to wooded heights or areas.
חֹ֫רֶשׁ n.m. wood, wooded height
base
H2793 חֹ֫רֶשׁ wood, wooded height
2793 choresh kho'-resh
from 2790; a forest (perhaps as furnishing the material for
fabric):--bough, forest, shroud, wood.
see HEBREW for 02790
חֹ֫רֶשׁ (cho.resh) — Horesh.
This name means wood, forest
חֹ֫רֶשׁ (cho.resh) — wood.
1) wood, wooded height, forest, wooded area.
Prep | N-proper — Preposition · noun properHRd/Npl
ho'-resh (choreshah, 1Sa 23:15,18, margin only; Septuagint en Te Kaine, "in the New"; English Versions of the Bible "in the wood" (ba-choreshdh), the particle "in" being combined with the article): Choresh in other passages is translated "forest" (compare 2Ch 27:4; Isa 17:9; Eze 31:3) and it is most probable that it should be so translated here.
The Hebrew word יְהוֹנָתָן (*Yhownathan*) means 'Jehovah has given' and refers to several individuals in the Old Testament, primarily Jonathan, the son of King Saul and a close friend of David. The entries detail various figures named Jonathan, including a high priest's son, warriors, and Levites, with notable mentions in Judges and 1 Samuel.
יְהוֹנָתָן, יוֹנָתָן n.pr.m. (י׳ hath given)
son of Saul
son of Abiathar
nephew of David
of David, i.e. his uncle?
one of David’s heroes
one of David’s treasurers
a scribe
Levites
a priest
priest to the tribe of Dan, son of Gershom
a Judaite captain, after fall of Jerus.
a Judaite
father of Ebed
son of Asahel
a priest
son of Joiada
base
H3083 יְהוֹנָתָן, יוֹנָתָן
3083 Yhownathan yeh-ho-naw-thawn'
from 3068 and 5414; Jehovah-given; Jehonathan, the name of
four Israelites:--Jonathan. Compare 3129.
see HEBREW for 03068
see HEBREW for 05414
see HEBREW for 03129
יְהוֹנָתָן (ye.ho.na.tan) — Jonathan.
A man living before Israel's Monarchy, only mentioned at Jdg.18.30;
son of: Gershom (H1647)(?)
§ 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
Conj | N-proper — Conjunction · noun proper masculineHC/Npm
Jonathan
Whom Jehovah gave, the name of fifteen or more persons that are mentioned in Scripture. The chief of these are, (1.) A Levite descended from Gershom (Judg. 18:30). His history is recorded in 17:7-13 and 18:30. The Rabbins changed this name into Manasseh “to screen the memory of the great lawgiver from the stain of having so unworthy an apostate among his near descendants.” He became priest of the idol image at Dan, and this office continued in his family till the Captivity.
(2.) The eldest son of king Saul, and the bosom friend of David. He is first mentioned when he was about thirty years of age, some time after his father’s accession to the throne (1 Sam. 13:2). Like his father, he was a man of great strength and activity (
that is, "the gift of Jehovah, " the eldest son of King Saul. (B.C. about 1095-1056.) He was a man of great strength and activity. (2 Samuel 1:23) He was also famous as a warrior, (1 Chronicles 12:2) as is shown by the courage he showing in attacking the garrison of the Philistines, in company with is armor-bearer only, slaying twenty men and putting an army to flight. (1 Samuel 14:6-16) During the pursuit, Jonathan, who had not heard of the rash curse, ch. (1 Samuel 14:24) which Saul invoked on any one who ate before the evening, tasted the honey which lay on the ground. Saul would have sacrificed him; but the people interposed in behalf of the hero of that great day, and…
1. A Levite, son of Gershom, and grandson of Moses, who after the death of Joshua impiously served as a priest, first to Micah, and then to the Danites in Laish or Dan, where his posterity succeeded him until the captivity, Jud 17:1-18:31.
2. The eldest son of Saul, and one of the loveliest characters in Old Testament history. The narrative of his brilliant exploit in Michmash, 1Sa 13:1-14:52, illustrates his pious faith, his bravery, (see also 1Sa 13:3) and the favor borne him by the people, who would not suffer him to be put to death in consequence of Saul’s foolish vow. This valiant and generous prince loved David as his own soul, 1Sa 18:1-4 19:2 20:1-42; and though…
given of God
הָלַךְ (halak) means 'to go,' 'come,' or 'walk,' and covers a wide range of literal and figurative uses, including aspects of life and death. It can describe physical movement, moral conduct, and even influence on character. The verb appears in various forms, such as Qal, Piel, and Hithpael, indicating different nuances like leading or traversing.
הָלַךְ 1546 vb. go, come, walk
Qal Impf. usually (629 t.) as if from ילך
lit.
of persons
Also of animals, in similar meanings and combinations
in like manner of inanimate things
The inf. abs. is often used
as in other vbs., quite independently
to intensify meaning of finite form
most noteworthy is the joining of the Inf. abs.
with a following Inf. abs. denoting a simutaneous action or process, and so emphasizing duration or continuance
with a foll. vb. fin. c. ו consec. (rare)
in cases where vb. fin. is foll. by Inf. abs. adj. denoting progress, advance
twice, where vb. fin. is not הלך, but another vb. denoting motion
quite by itself
13 t. the Inf. abs. = Imv. & is followed by Pf. consec.
akin to the use of Inf. abs. are some instances of Pt.
In combination with other verbal forms
Fig.; the most common uses follow; in most the origin in a literal meaning is evident:
pass away, die
H1980 הָלַךְ go, come, walk .Impf. usually (629 t.) as if from ילך . lit. . of persons
. Also of animals, in similar meanings and combinations
. in like manner of inanimate things
. The inf. abs. is often used . as in other vbs., quite independently
. to intensify meaning of finite form
. most noteworthy is the joining of the Inf. abs. . with a following Inf. abs. denoting a simutaneous action or process, and so emphasizing duration or continuance
. with a foll. vb. fin. c. ו consec. (rare)
. in cases where vb. fin. is foll. by Inf. abs. + adj. denoting progress, advance
. twice, where vb. fin. is not הלך, but another vb. denoting motion
. quite by itself
. 13 t. the Inf. abs. = Imv. & is followed by Pf. consec.
. akin to the use of Inf. abs. are some instances of Pt.
. In combination with other verbal forms
1980 halak haw-lak'
akin to 3212; a primitive root; to walk (in a great variety
of applications, literally and figuratively):--(all) along,
apace, behave (self), come, (on) continually, be conversant,
depart, + be eased, enter, exercise (self), + follow, forth,
forward, get, go (about, abroad, along, away, forward, on,
out, up and down), + greater, grow, be wont to haunt, lead,
march, X more and more, move (self), needs, on, pass (away),
be at the point, quite, run (along), + send, speedily, spread,
still, surely, + tale-bearer, + travel(-ler), walk (abroad,
on, to and fro, up and down, to places), wander, wax,
(way-)faring man, X be weak, whirl.
see HEBREW for 03212
הָלַךְ (ha.lakh) — to go: went.
: went/go[away]
1) to go, walk, come
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away
1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.)
1b) (Piel)
1b1) to walk
1b2) to walk (fig.)
1c) (Hithpael)
1c1) to traverse
1c2) to walk about
1d) (Niphal) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk
הָלַךְ (ha.lakh) — to go: come.
: come[nearer]
1) to go, walk, come
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away
1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.)
1b) (Piel)
1b1) to walk
1b2) to walk (fig.)
1c) (Hithpael)
1c1) to traverse
1c2) to walk about
1d) (Niphal) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk
הָלַךְ (ha.lakh) — to go: walk.
: walk/move
1) to go, walk, come
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away
1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.)
1b) (Piel)
1b1) to walk
1b2) to walk (fig.)
1c) (Hithpael)
1c1) to traverse
V-Qal-Perf-3ms — Verb · Qal · perfect third person masculine singularHVqp3ms
The Hebrew word בַּיִת (*bayith*) means 'house' and encompasses a wide range of meanings, including dwelling, family, and place. It can refer to physical structures, such as homes and temples, as well as metaphorical uses like the body or household affairs. The word is built from the root related to 'between' and appears in various contexts throughout the Old Testament.
בֵּית fem. of בַּיִן, בֵּין prep. between
base
בַּ֫יִת 2034 n.m. house
house
place
receptacle
of house as containing a family
household, family (592 t.)
house, including household affairs
lit. housewards, hence metaph. inwards
מִבַּיִת
adv. on the inside
prep. within
base
H1004a בֵּית fem. of בַּיִן, בֵּין prep. between H1004b בַּ֫יִת house
1004 bayith bah'-yith
probably from 1129 abbreviated; a house (in the greatest
variation of applications, especially family, etc.):--court,
daughter, door, + dungeon, family, + forth of, X great as
would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter)house(-hold),
inside(-ward), palace, place, + prison, + steward, + tablet,
temple, web, + within(-out).
see HEBREW for 01129
בֵּית (bet) — place.
nm
place, origin, between
בַּ֫יִת (ba.yit) — house: home.
: home/temple/building
nm
1) house
1a) house, dwelling habitation
1b) shelter or abode of animals
1c) human bodies (fig.)
1d) of Sheol
1e) of abode of light and darkness
1f) of land of Ephraim
2) place
3) receptacle
4) home, house as containing a family
5) household, family
5a) those belonging to the same household
5b) family of descendants, descendants as organized body
6) household affairs
7) inwards (metaph.)
8) (TWOT) temple
adv
9) on the inside
prep
10) within
בַּ֫יִת (ba.yit) — Beth-(ashbea).
nm
This name is used for a house, habitation
Combined with ash.be.a (אַשְׁבֵּעַ "Ashbea" H0791)
בַּ֫יִת (ba.yit) — Beth (Haggan).
nm
This name is used for a house, habitation
Combined with hag (גַּן "Haggan" H1588)
בַּ֫יִת (ba.yit) — Beth-(togarmah).
nm
This name is used for a house, habitation
Prep | N-ms | Suff — Preposition · noun common masculine singular construct · suffixHR/Ncmsc/Sp3ms