1 Samuel 20:16

16 So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, [saying], And Jehovah will require it at the hand of David's enemies.

1 Samuel 20:16 Meaning and Commentary

1 Samuel 20:16

So Jonathan made [a covenant] with the house of David
Not with David himself only, which was now renewed, but with his family also:

[saying], let the Lord even require [it] at the hand of David's
enemies;
take vengeance on Jonathan, or on any of his posterity, should they break this covenant, by showing themselves enemies to David, and his crown; and, on the other hand, also on David, and his posterity, should they not show kindness to Jonathan and his seed, according to the tenor of this covenant.

1 Samuel 20:16 In-Context

14 And thou shalt not only while yet I live show me the lovingkindness of Jehovah, that I die not;

15 but also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever; no, not when Jehovah hath cut off the enemies of David every one from the face of the earth.

16 So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, [saying], And Jehovah will require it at the hand of David's enemies.

17 And Jonathan caused David to swear again, for the love that he had to him; for he loved him as he loved his own soul.

18 Then Jonathan said unto him, To-morrow is the new moon: and thou wilt be missed, because thy seat will be empty.