עברית
Faith
What is the significance of David's love for Jonathan?
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
