But Jonathan heard not when his father charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put forth the end of the rod that was in his hand, and dipped it in an honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes were enlightened.
But Jonathan hadn't heard when his father made the people swear an oath, so he reached out with the end of his staff and dipped it into a honeycomb. He put his hand to his mouth and ate the honey, and his eyes became bright and clear.
Jonathan unknowingly broke his father's oath by eating honey, which immediately refreshed and strengthened him.
📚 Historical Context
King Saul had commanded his army not to eat any food during their battle against the Philistines, binding them with an oath and threatening death to anyone who broke it. Jonathan was fighting in a different part of the battlefield and missed hearing this command. The honey gave him immediate energy and clarity, showing the foolishness of Saul's hasty vow that was actually weakening his own army.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.