1 Samuel 20:1

1 Samuel 20:1-10. David's consultation with Jonathan

1. David fled from Naioth While Saul lay helpless in his trance, David, perhaps by Samuel's advice, returned to consult with Jonathan. It may seem surprising that he could think of venturing back to Gibeah after Saul's late outbreak; but he on his part would be unwilling to break with Saul and become an outlaw till absolutely forced to do so; while Jonathan, knowing David's value to the kingdom, would use every effort to effect a reconciliation. This he might still hope for, since all Saul's actual attempts upon David's life had been made in his fits of, insanity.

What have I done The three questions are a virtual assertion of his innocence. Compare the passionate protests of the Seventh Psalm, written probably somewhat later, during his flight, but reflecting the feelings of this time. See on 1 Samuel 24:9.