1 Samuel 14:42

42 And Saul said , Cast lots between me and Jonathan my son. And Jonathan was taken .

1 Samuel 14:42 Meaning and Commentary

1 Samuel 14:42

And Saul said, cast [lots] between me and Jonathan my son,
&c.]. Which showed his regard strict justice, and that he had no consciousness of guilt in himself, and should not spare his own son if found guilty:

and Jonathan was taken:
the lot fell upon him, which was so directed, that his ignorance of his father's charge and oath might appear; and that the affection of the people might be discovered; and that a regard is to be had to the orders and commands of princes, and obedience to be yielded to them in all in which conscience is not concerned, though they may be grievous; and to bring Saul to a sense of rashness in making such an oath, which brought his own son into so much danger.

1 Samuel 14:42 In-Context

40 Then said he unto all Israel, Be ye on one side, and I and Jonathan my son will be on the other side. And the people said unto Saul, Do what seemeth good unto thee.

41 Therefore Saul said unto the LORD God of Israel, Give a perfect lot. And Saul and Jonathan were taken : but the people escaped .

42 And Saul said , Cast lots between me and Jonathan my son. And Jonathan was taken .

43 Then Saul said to Jonathan, Tell me what thou hast done . And Jonathan told him, and said , I did but taste a little honey with the end of the rod that was in mine hand, and, lo, I must die .

44 And Saul answered , God do so and more also : for thou shalt surely die , Jonathan.