Jonathan יְהוֹנָתָן
Son of Abiathar the priest during David's reign
Biography
Jonathan, the son of Abiathar the priest, appears in the biblical narrative during the reign of King David. He served as a messenger and informant alongside Ahimaaz, the son of Zadok, during the time of Absalom's rebellion against David (2Sa.15.27,36).
When David was forced to flee Jerusalem due to Absalom's coup, he instructed Jonathan and Ahimaaz to remain in the city and send word to him about any developments (2Sa.15.27-29). The two young men stayed near En-rogel, outside the city, to avoid detection (2Sa.17.17). A servant girl would relay messages to them, which they would then deliver to David (2Sa.17.17).
When Absalom's men came searching for Jonathan and Ahimaaz, a woman hid them in a well and covered it, misleading the pursuers (2Sa.17.18-20). The two then escaped and informed David of Ahithophel's advice to Absalom (2Sa.17.21).
Later, during the tensions surrounding Solomon's succession to the throne, Jonathan brought news to Adonijah and his supporters that Solomon had been anointed king (1Ki.1.42-48). This report led to the disbanding of Adonijah's faction.
Jonathan's role as a messenger and informant highlights the importance of loyalty and communication during times of political upheaval. His service to David, along with that of Ahimaaz, was crucial in helping the king navigate the challenges posed by Absalom's rebellion and the uncertainties of the royal succession.
Family
In Scripture
2 biblical books2 Samuel 4 verses
- 2 Samuel 15:27
"The king said also to Zadok the priest, “Aren’t you a seer? Return into the city in peace, and your two sons with you, Ahimaaz your son, and Jonathan the son of Abiathar."
- 2 Samuel 15:36
"Behold, they have there with them their two sons, Ahimaaz, Zadok’s son, and Jonathan, Abiathar’s son. Send to me everything that you shall hear by them.”"
- 2 Samuel 17:17
"Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz were staying by En Rogel; and a female servant used to go and tell them; and they went and told king David. For they might not be seen to come into the city."
- 2 Samuel 17:20
"Absalom’s servants came to the woman to the house; and they said, “Where are Ahimaaz and Jonathan?” The woman said to them, “They have gone over the brook of water.” When they had sought and could not find them, they returned to Jerusalem."
1 Kings 2 verses
- 1 Kings 1:42
"While he yet spoke, behold, Jonathan the son of Abiathar the priest came; and Adonijah said, “Come in; for you are a worthy man, and bring good news.”"
- 1 Kings 1:43
"Jonathan answered Adonijah, “Most certainly our lord king David has made Solomon king."
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script | Strong's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | יְהוֹנָתָן | H3083I |
| Spelled | Hebrew | יוֹנָתָן | H3129O |