Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 20 - Verse 30

20:30
Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him, Thou son of the perverse rebellious woman, do not I know that thou hast chosen the son of Jesse to thine own confusion, and unto the confusion of thy mother's nakedness?

Meaning

In this verse, we see a moment of tension between Saul and his son Jonathan. Saul's anger is sparked when he realizes that Jonathan has chosen to support David, the son of Jesse, who Saul sees as a threat to his own rule. Saul's words to Jonathan are filled with both anger and disappointment, as he accuses him of choosing David over his own family. The phrase "Thou son of the perverse rebellious woman" is a direct insult to not only Jonathan but also to his mother, suggesting a lack of respect and loyalty. Saul's accusation that Jonathan's choice will lead to his own shame and embarrassment, as well as that of his mother, demonstrates the depth of his anger and the extent to which he values his own power and authority. This verse serves as a reminder of the complex relationships and power struggles that can arise within families and the consequences of choosing loyalty to others over one's own family.

Theological Overview

Within this verse from the book of 1 Samuel, Saul's anger towards his son Jonathan is revealed when he accuses him of siding with David, the son of Jesse, whom Saul sees as a threat to his throne. The use of the phrase "son of the perverse rebellious woman" has sparked theological interpretations and word studies among scholars. Some believe that this insult implies that Saul questions Jonathan's loyalty because he is the son of a rebellious mother, perhaps suggesting that Jonathan has inherited negative traits from her. Others argue that this phrase is simply a derogatory insult meant to shame Jonathan. The reference to "choosing the son of Jesse to thine own confusion" serves as a warning to Jonathan about the consequences of his friendship with David. The mention of "thy mother's nakedness" adds a layer of humiliation to the insult, implying that Jonathan's actions bring shame not only to himself but also to his mother. Overall, this passage highlights the complex dynamics of power and loyalty in the biblical narrative of Saul, Jonathan, and David.

American Standard Version

Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him, Thou son of a perverse rebellious woman, do not I know that thou hast chosen the son of Jesse to thine own shame, and unto the shame of thy mother's nakedness?
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