Definition: And Jonathan caused David to swear again, because he loved him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Samuel 20:17. It’s a really interesting and complex passage about friendship and loyalty! Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about Jonathan’s deep affection for David, bordering on obsession. He’s not just being friendly; he's loving David as much as he loves himself. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And Jonathan caused David to swear again…” - This suggests a moment of conflict or tension between them. It implies David was struggling with something, and Jonathan felt compelled to intervene. “…because he loved him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul.” – This is the key part. "His own soul" refers to David’s deepest, most cherished desires and values. Jonathan's love wasn't just a feeling; it was a profound, almost consuming desire for David's happiness and well-being. So, what does this mean in practice? It suggests that Jonathan wasn’t simply being supportive or kind to David. He was deeply invested in David’s happiness and success, perhaps even prioritizing his own desires alongside those of David. He felt a strong sense of responsibility and care for him. Important Context: 1 Samuel 20 is about a difficult situation – David’s growing ambition and the potential threat it posed to his life. Jonathan’s actions here are driven by this deep love and concern, making it a pivotal moment in their relationship. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse from 1 Samuel? Discuss the symbolism of "his own soul"? Give you some context about the situation in 1 Samuel 20?