עברית
Faith
What is the significance of David's love for Jonathan?
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Question
The book of Samuel states that David writes about Jonathan "Your love for me was more wonderful than the love of women." I see many secular people interpreting this statement as something against the holy Torah. That David and Jonathan were in a kind of romantic relationship. So I wanted to know what this statement means, as I encounter many questions about it and have no answer. Regards.
Answer
Shalom u'vracha
This misunderstanding arises because some among us think that love is merely a physical desire. Love is pure, and the love of David for Jonathan was more profound than a man loves his wife. A man's love for his wife is a pure love, rooted in thoughtfulness and concern for another, not merely physical desire.
Thus wrote in Metzudat David, II Samuel 1:26
"The love with which I loved you is a wonderful love, and it is greater than the love of women who are loved by those who desire them:"
With blessings,
Benjamin Shmuali
