Definition: And David said unto Jonathan, Behold, to morrow [is] the new moon, and I should not fail to sit with the king at meat: but let me go, that I may hide myself in the field unto the third [day] at even.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 20:5. It's a really interesting and slightly mysterious passage about David preparing for a big event. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: David is talking to Jonathan: This tells us we’re looking at a moment of intense secrecy and planning between two important figures – David and his friend Jonathan. “To morrow [is] the new moon…” – “New moon” means it's the night before the full moon. It's a crucial point because it signifies a time when the veil between the world of the living and the spiritual world is thin. It’s a moment of potential change. “…and I should not fail to sit with the king at meat.” – David wants to have a private meal with King Saul, the king of Israel. “Sit with” means to eat together. “Meat” refers to a large feast. "...but let me go, that I may hide myself in the field unto the third [day] at even.” - This is where it gets really intriguing. David says he needs to leave for a bit – "let me go." He wants to go into the countryside, specifically to a field, and be alone for three days (even) at night. Putting It All Together – What’s the Meaning? This verse suggests that David is preparing for a significant, possibly clandestine meeting with King Saul. Here's what it could mean: A Secret Meeting: This isn’t just a casual meal. It's a very important conversation, likely about something sensitive and potentially dangerous. A Test of Loyalty: The phrase "hide myself in the field" implies David is testing his loyalty to God. He’s choosing to be alone and away from the scrutiny of Saul, which could be a sign of his growing spiritual maturity and commitment. Preparing for Something Bigger: The verse points towards a larger event or mission. David isn’t just eating a meal; he's preparing for something that will require secrecy and discretion. Important Note: The exact reason David is choosing this particular time and place is not explicitly stated in the Bible. It’s left open to interpretation. In short, this verse speaks of a strategic moment – a private meeting with King Saul, likely related to a significant event or test of loyalty. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of the passage? Discuss the symbolism behind the phrase “hide myself in the field”?